The Texas Longhorns Softball program has officially announced plans to erect a bronze statue of their legendary pitcher, Cat Osterman. The university confirmed that work on the monument is scheduled to commence, solidifying Osterman’s enduring legacy in the world of collegiate athletics.
Born on April 16, 1983, in Houston, Texas, Catherine Leigh Osterman, known as Cat Osterman, began her softball journey at a young age. By the time she reached Cypress Springs High School, she had already set numerous records, including a national record for strikeouts in a 14-inning game. Her exceptional talent led her to the University of Texas, where she would become a household name in the world of collegiate athletics.
Osterman’s tenure at Texas was marked by unparalleled success. She was a four-time All-American and a four-time Big 12 Pitcher of the Year. Her dominance on the mound was evident as she set multiple NCAA records, including the highest career strikeout-per-seven-inning ratio at 14.34. Over her career, she threw 20 no-hitters and seven perfect games, feats that remain unmatched in NCAA Division I history.
Following her collegiate career, Osterman was drafted first overall in the 2006 National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) draft. She went on to have a stellar professional career, earning six All-NPF selections and leading her teams to four Cowles Cup championships. Her impact wasn’t confined to the United States; she was a key member of the U.S. women’s national softball team, securing a gold medal in the 2004 Athens Olympics and silver medals in both the 2008 Beijing and 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The decision to honor Osterman with a bronze statue is a testament to her profound influence on the sport of softball and the University of Texas community. It serves as a symbol of excellence, dedication, and the breaking of barriers in women’s sports. The statue will not only commemorate her athletic achievements but also inspire future generations of athletes to strive for greatness.
The statue will be prominently placed at Red and Charline McCombs Field, ensuring that all who visit the venue are reminded of Osterman’s legacy. While specific details about the design have not been publicly released, it is expected that the statue will capture Osterman in a dynamic pitching pose, reflecting her prowess on the mound.
The announcement of the statue has been met with widespread acclaim from both the University of Texas community and the broader softball world. Athletic Director Chris Del Conte expressed immense pride in Osterman’s accomplishments, stating, “Cat’s contributions to Texas Softball are immeasurable. This statue is a small token of our appreciation for her monumental impact.” Former teammates and coaches have also lauded the decision, highlighting Osterman’s leadership both on and off the field.
The erection of Osterman’s statue is part of a larger movement to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women in sports. In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to ensure that female athletes receive the recognition they deserve. For instance, in September 2024, the University of Oklahoma dedicated a statue to head softball coach Patty Gasso, marking the school’s first statue honoring a female coach or athlete.
These initiatives are crucial in promoting gender equality in sports and providing role models for young girls aspiring to pursue athletic careers. By honoring figures like Osterman and Gasso, institutions are sending a clear message that women’s contributions to sports are valued and celebrated.
As the construction of Osterman’s statue progresses, anticipation continues to build. The unveiling ceremony is expected to draw a large crowd, including former teammates, coaches, and fans who have been inspired by Osterman’s journey. Details regarding the date and time of the ceremony will be announced in the coming months.
In the meantime, the University of Texas continues to honor Osterman’s legacy in other ways. In 2020, the university retired her No. 8 jersey, making her the first Texas softball player to receive such an honor. This act further solidified her status as a trailblazer in the sport.
Cat Osterman’s journey from a young softball enthusiast in Houston to a global ambassador for the sport is nothing short of inspiring. Her upcoming bronze statue at Red and Charline McCombs Field will serve as a lasting tribute to her exceptional career and the indelible mark she has left on the world of softball. It will stand as a beacon for future generations, reminding them that with passion, dedication, and hard work, greatness is within reach.
As we await the unveiling of the statue, we celebrate not only Osterman’s past achievements but also the bright future she continues to inspire in the world of women’s sports.
