Jonathan Smith eager to dive in, learn Michigan State history

New Michigan State head coach Jonathan Smith says that he’s eager to dive in and learn more about the history of the Spartans’ program.

One of the questions that some have about Smith is that he lacks direct ties to Michigan State and the Midwest. So, at his introductory press conference, he was asked about those lack of ties, if he’s going to study the program’s history, and if it even matters when looking toward the future.

“Definitely important,” Jonathan Smith said. “[I] definitely want to dive in and learn. I continue to learn more and more each day.”

Jonathan Smith is coming over from Oregon State, the school he once led as a quarterback. He knew everything there was to know about Oregon State and he also firmly believes that knowing history is beneficial.

“I’ll say it this way, just thinking of the former players and understanding the big-time players, the history, and championships that were won here, is important for me to learn, but also make sure we have engaging, welcoming back former players, I look back to learning that part.”

One thing that Michigan State does boast is a long and illustrious history. The Spartans have six claimed national championships and 11 conference title wins. However, the last of those national titles was in 1966 and the program would like to get back to that point.

Jonathan Smith expresses confidence in decision to take Michigan State job

One thing that Jonathan Smith did want to make clear was that he’s all in and very confident in his decision to take the Michigan State job.

“I’ve got confidence in this move. I cannot overstate the idea of transition of the family all the way over here. I cannot overstate how important and confident I think we are in this thing. We are confident in this thing and it’s so exciting to be here and really get started. This is a big day, you get on stage, you get to be up the press conference to go get to answer some questions with the press, got a basketball game to go to tonight,” Smith said.

“I’m looking forward to diving into these players and getting to that meeting room and setting plans and really getting started because it’s going to take some work. I think a lot of us in this room understand this is going to take some work and I am definitely excited and up for the challenge and opportunity that’s in front of us.”