Teamwork is all about pushing each other to be better. No one can slack off because a team is only as strong as its weakest link. That’s why OSU wrestling coach David Taylor emphasizes internal competition–it’s the key to building a championship team. Taylor faces obstacles while selecting his roster for major events while balancing the training of youth talent and the experience brought by veterans. Weeks after issuing a solid warning to his stars about the demands of the upcoming season, the OSU coach is shedding light on how he makes his decisions and manages the team dynamic.

David Taylor’s way of balancing competition within the team is all about creating an environment where wrestlers are motivated to reach greater heights. He knows the importance of internal rivalry in building a high-performance roster. With confidence-building and experienced leadership, Taylor has created a victory formula for Ohio State wrestling. And one of Taylor’s important strategies for maintaining momentum is to keep his athletes confident throughout.

He points to early-season competitions as a critical turn for wrestlers to build their confidence. In an interview post by floWrestling over X, Taylor said, “It’s a long season. And I think going up there and getting matches, getting started with some good matches—got some major decisions—I think that was really good for him, building him up as a seed.” These early wins help wrestlers to feel prepared for the obstacles ahead as the competition intensifies toward the NCAA tournaments.

By making wrestlers compete with each other internally, specifically in weight classes. Taylor keeps everyone on their toes. Even with multiple athletes eyeing the same spot, no one’s position is guaranteed, and every athlete must earn their place. Well, his approach fortifies the idea that success isn’t about individual accomplishments but about how each athlete’s growth contributes to the team’s ultimate goals, and that’s how healthy competition serves as a powerful tool for development.

David Taylor: Master of internal competition

The internal rivalries in wrestling are intense, but Davis Taylor’s instated philosophy turns the rivalry into an asset. As a result, the team becomes more cohesive, with each athlete elevating their performance while also fostering a supportive environment where everyone is rooting for each other’s success.

David Taylor’s way of balancing competition within the team is all about creating an environment where wrestlers are motivated to reach greater heights. Taylor knows the importance of internal rivalry in building a high-performance roster. “We just got to figure it out. I think Kale’s doing a really good job right now. Cody’s doing a good job, and Luke’s doing a good job. They’re all pushing each other and getting better, and really helping our team get better,” Taylor said

Gaining confidence and maintaining it isn’t only about victories but also ensuring that each wrestler continues to better themselves. Taylor’s focus on creating a stage for early success helps wrestlers enter the later stages of the season with their best selves, training them more to perform under pressure. When they start strong, the team is set for a long season. 

Taylor’s other strategy is adding leadership. Wrestlers like Ameen and Cam bring heavy experience to Ohio State that younger athletes can depend on. “They’re veterans, you know, they’ve been around for a long time. They’re wrestling in national tournaments. And they bring really good leadership to our team,” Taylor said. This leadership helps to stabilize the team offering them guidance and ensuring their performance throughout the season.

Well, want to build a high-performing team? Foster internal competition, practice hard and boost confidence. It’s a winning formula. And Taylor stands by it!