In the heart of Manhattan, Kansas State's spring practice had a special guest this weekend. Collin Klein, the Wildcats' new head coach, welcomed Chris Klieman back to Bill Snyder Family Stadium.
Just five months after taking over the reins, Klein found himself chatting and sharing laughs with Klieman at midfield, a moment that quickly spread across social media. But this wasn't just a photo op; it was a testament to the connection between K-State's storied past and its promising future.
Klein has been leaning on both Klieman and legendary coach Bill Snyder as he navigates his new role. "I’ve been extremely blessed to be around some of the best to ever do it," Klein shared.
"From Coach Snyder to Coach Klieman and, most recently, to Coach Mike Elko at Texas A&M. I am just so grateful to each one of them.
I learned different things from each one of them."
With Snyder and Klieman as his mentors, Klein has a wealth of experience to draw from. He played quarterback under Snyder, leading the Wildcats to significant victories, including a Cotton Bowl appearance and a Big 12 championship. Klein's impressive performance even earned him a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist.
Fast forward a decade, and Klein was instrumental in helping Klieman secure a conference title as the offensive coordinator. Klieman's decision to retire in December came as a surprise, but his presence is still felt around the Wildcats' facilities. K-State's athletic director, Gene Taylor, is considering an advisory role for Klieman within the department.
Klein appreciates Klieman's continued support. "We’ve talked a handful of times, and he’s been great," Klein said.
"Whenever I had questions or needed clarity, he made sure I understood things. He’s been a big-time mentor for me."
During an open practice, traces of Klieman's coaching style were evident, but Klein is also bringing back some of Snyder's methods. He plans to have the team practice in full pads for 12 of the 15 spring sessions, emphasizing physicality and conditioning. Klein, much like Snyder, observes and takes notes from afar, a strategy that served his mentor well.
Snyder remains a vital resource for Klein. "We talk," Klein said.
"We touch base here and there. I’ve had breakfast with him over the years during vacations.
He is very, very dear to me. I rely on his wisdom daily."
Klein isn't trying to mimic Klieman or Snyder, but he's certainly leveraging what he's learned from them. As he steps into his role, Klein is using that knowledge to shape the future of K-State football.