Penn State wrestling coach Sammie Henson is leaving the program at the end of this semester.

In a statement from Penn State sports information, Henson said the move was made so that he could pursue "a move up the coaching ladder."

"I had a great experience at Penn State and was overwhelmed by the support of the boosters and administration," Henson said.

"I plan on putting competition behind me. I beat the world champion and the top U.S. contenders in competition this year, so I want to go out on top and on my own terms. I think this is a good time to do that and move on."

Henson worked with the lightweights on team, helping Josh and Scott Moore and Adam Smith.

While Josh came in third at the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments this year, Scott captured.the 141-pound Big Ten Championship and brought home fourth-place at Nationals.

Adam Smith finished the season with a record 22-21.

Smith said Henson's tutelage helped him learn how to use his natural ability.

"He did so much for me athletically," Smith said.

Henson has won many awards during his career. He was a national champion while competing in 1993 and 1994 at Clemson as well as an Olympic freestyle silver medallist in 2000. He has also coached at Oklahoma, Missouri and Northern Iowa.