In a notable shift within Wisconsin's recruiting department, Luke Fickell is set to lose a key player in Taylor Ewald, the director of on-campus recruiting. Ewald is making a move to Iowa State, where she'll take on the same role under the new leadership of head coach Jimmy Rogers. While her position might not always grab headlines, it's undeniably crucial to the success of a college football program.
Ewald's responsibilities at Wisconsin were all about creating an unforgettable campus experience for recruits. From orchestrating visits to handling the nitty-gritty of transcripts and logistics, she played a pivotal role in turning visits into commitments. Her departure could impact the Badgers’ recruiting momentum, as the goal is often to secure a recruit's commitment before they even leave campus.
This move follows a series of changes in Wisconsin's recruiting leadership. Max Stienecker, Ewald's former boss, previously left for USC, and his successor, Ethan Russo, moved on to Oklahoma State after a brief stint. Now, with Darius Hicks from Michigan State and Marcus Sedberry sharing responsibilities, the department is clearly in a state of transition.
Ewald's decision to join Iowa State signals a fresh start and an opportunity to help shape a new recruiting strategy under Coach Rogers. Meanwhile, Fickell faces the challenge of finding a replacement who can maintain the momentum Ewald helped build since her arrival in Madison in 2023.
As spring practices ramp up and more recruits plan their visits, filling Ewald's shoes will be a top priority for Fickell. Her influence was felt in every commitment secured during her tenure, making her departure a significant moment for Wisconsin's recruiting efforts.