TALLAHASSEE, Fl. (WTXL) - The Willie Taggart era officially began in Tallahassee Wednesday morning when the new head coach of the Florida State football team was formally introduced.
Taggart spoke fondly of his love for Florida State, and admitted leaving Oregon was tough, but a conversation with his son helped him make the decision.
"He said Dad, I know you're struggling with this decision, and I know it's your dream job," reflected Taggart. "He said, you always tell me to chase my dreams and don't let anyone get in the way of it. He said I don't think it's right for me or anyone else to stop you from chasing your dreams."
Taggart called Florida State a dream job, and now he is on campus living the dream. He joked he was never good enough to play at Florida State, but now he's here and can't wait to get started.
"It was really, really nice walking out on the field this morning and walking to the 50 yard line and like yes- you made it! You made it!" he laughed. "Then you see your picture on the Jumbotron, and my name was spelled right! Yes!"
President John Thrasher and Athletic Director Stan Wilcox both sang Taggart's praises Wednesday. Thrasher took a cue from former coach Jimbo Fisher, saying it was a "no brainer to hire Taggart," playing on the words Fisher said of taking the Texas A&M job.
Thrasher added it has been a stressful couple of weeks, and he is glad the deal is done.
"It's stress in the sense that we want Florida State to be successful and this pushed a back step or two. Now we're running full speed. With this young man, I think we'll be outstanding."
Taggart was introduced to Seminole fans Wednesday night at the men's basketball game.
