Oklahoma State University Athletics
Olympic Tradition Continues at Oklahoma State
August 27, 2004 | Cowboy Wrestling
Oklahoma State has produced more Olympic wrestlers than any other program in the country. The Cowboys have been represented by a coach or wrestler in every Olympic Games since 1924. OSU has received 15 wrestling medals, which is a higher count than 33 countries with an Olympic wrestling medal.
“It is exciting for those guys to continue the strong tradition of Olympians from Oklahoma State,” Oklahoma State head coach and two-time gold medalist John Smith said.
Guerrero, Kelly and Cormier just add to the mystique of the Oklahoma State wrestling program with their appearance in the summer games. None of the three are favored to take the gold in Athens, but all three are capable of beating any opponent on the mat. Sports Illustrated recently predicted the medals for each sport and Cormier was the only Cowboy listed, receiving the bronze at 96 kg (211.5 pounds).
“Medals are earned and not given away,” John Smith said. “They will have to wrestle their very best to get on the medal stand and all three are capable of doing that.”
Guerrero had the most success in his collegiate career. Guerrero won three consecutive NCAA titles from 1997-99. He will compete at 60 kg (132 pounds).
Kelly and Cormier both took similar routes to get to where they are. Both wrestlers started their career at junior college before landing at Oklahoma State. Kelly was runner-up in the 1996 Junior College Nationals. Cormier won two National Junior College titles in 1998 and 1999, and he finished as NCAA runner-up in 2001. Kelly will compete at 66 kg (145.5 pounds).
“Jamill and Daniel are inspirational to other wrestlers who did not have a great beginning to their careers,” coach Smith said.
