Tyler SmithTyler Smith has followed the advice of Horace Greeley: "Go west, young man." Without leaving Pennsylvania.
Weeks after graduating from Bucknell University, the four-time NCAA qualifier for the Bison has headed west 2.5 hours to Clarion University to serve as a graduate assistant coach, the Golden Eagles revealed Wednesday.
Smith brings a wealth of wrestling experience gained in his native Pennsylvania at both Bucknell and at Franklin Regional High School to share with Clarion wrestlers.
While at Bucknell, Smith became only the fifth Bison to qualify for the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships four straight seasons (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018). He also was a three-time EIWA (Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association) medalist, placing second in 2018, 3rd in 2015, and 4th in 2017. As a Bison, Smith compiled an overall record of 107-37.
Before heading to Bucknell, Smith built a successful high school career at Franklin Regional. He recorded a 158-21 record through four years, winning the PIAA (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association) state championship as a junior and placing third and fifth as a senior and sophomore, respectively. What's more, Smith was a Freestyle All-American and USA Wrestling "Dream Team" selection in 2013, as well as an All-USA First Team pick in 2014.
Clarion head coach Keith Ferraro is eager to have Smith on the sidelines this season.
"We are excited to welcome Tyler to our program and staff for the upcoming year," said Ferraro. "Coming off a distinguished four-year career at Bucknell, he has an understanding of what it takes to compete against high-level competition at the most important time of the year. He's going to make this program better with his knowledge and experience."
Smith graduated from Bucknell this past spring with a degree in Political Science. He intends to pursue a Master's degree at Clarion.
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