There are moments in life that define who we are — seasons, games, and memories that shape the way we see the world. For me, those moments have almost always involved Oklahoma State football. And at the heart of nearly all of them stood one man: Mike Gundy.
I grew up on Gundy football. Saturdays weren’t just another day; they were a sacred tradition. The orange and black, the roar of Boone Pickens Stadium, the electrifying plays, the heartbreaks and triumphs — they all carried his fingerprints. This wasn’t just a coach leading a team. This was a man building a legacy, one that transformed Oklahoma State from an afterthought into a respected national powerhouse.
There’s something special about watching a program grow alongside its leader. Gundy wasn’t just part of Oklahoma State football — he was Oklahoma State football. His passion, loyalty, and fire turned a dream into reality. Under his leadership, the Cowboys weren’t just playing football; they were rewriting the story of what this program could become.
I think back to those unforgettable seasons — the Bedlam upsets, the Fiesta Bowl glory, the record-breaking offenses, and the relentless will to win. Every snap told a story of belief, every victory a testament to the culture he built. He gave us more than wins; he gave us an identity. He showed the nation that Oklahoma State belongs among the elite.
And through it all, Gundy remained true to his roots. A Cowboy through and through — player, alumnus, and legendary head coach. He embodied loyalty in a way few in sports ever do. Decades in Stillwater, decades of building, decades of making sure that orange pride ran deep.
So, Coach, thank you. For every moment that made our hearts race. For every season that brought us joy. For every lesson you taught about resilience, loyalty, and believing in something bigger than yourself.
This program wouldn’t be anywhere close to what it is without you. You’re more than a coach — you’re a legend. A cornerstone of Cowboy football. A name that will forever echo through the halls of Boone Pickens Stadium.
Forever a Cowboy. Forever a legend. Build the statue. You’ve more than earned it.
