Norman, Oklahoma — CBS NEWS: A Historic Open Letter from Head Coach Patty Gasso to Oklahoma Softball, Loyal Fans, and the Entire Sooner Family, Expressing Deep Gratitude for the Outpouring of Love.

Norman, Oklahoma — CBS NEWS: In a moving and historic gesture, Oklahoma Sooners head softball coach Patty Gasso has penned a powerful open letter to the Oklahoma softball program, the loyal fans, and the entire Sooner family. The letter, filled with sincerity and emotion, is a heartfelt expression of deep gratitude for the overwhelming love, support, and encouragement that have been shown to Gasso, her coaching staff, and her players during what has been a remarkable chapter in the history of Oklahoma softball. More than just a thank-you, Gasso’s message stands as a tribute to the community that has lifted the program to extraordinary heights and as a reminder of what makes Oklahoma softball so special.

For more than three decades, Patty Gasso has been the heart and soul of Oklahoma softball, building not just a winning program but a dynasty that has redefined excellence in collegiate athletics. Yet for Gasso, success is measured in far more than victories, championships, and records. In her letter, she emphasizes that the true foundation of the program is love—love for the game, for each other, for the university, and for the fans who make everything possible. Gasso’s words capture what it means to be part of a team, a family, and a community where every person matters, every voice counts, and every act of kindness strengthens the bond between players and supporters.

In her letter, Gasso begins by addressing the players who have poured their hearts and souls into the game, who have worn the crimson and cream with pride, and who have represented the University of Oklahoma with integrity and grace. She writes of their courage, their sacrifice, and their unbreakable spirit in the face of both triumph and adversity. Gasso speaks not just as a coach but as a mentor and a witness to their journeys, describing how each player, whether a senior leader or a freshman learning the ropes, has contributed to the legacy that continues to inspire generations of athletes.

“You have given me and this university so much to be proud of,” Gasso writes. “Your work ethic, your dedication, your heart—these are the things that define you. The wins are sweet, the titles are incredible, but it’s the way you carry yourselves, the way you lift each other up, and the way you play for something greater than yourselves that truly makes this program what it is.”

The letter goes on to honor the fans who have filled stadiums, traveled long distances to show their support, and turned every game into a celebration of school spirit and community pride. Gasso reflects on the sea of crimson that fills the stands at Marita Hynes Field and beyond, on the cheers that echo in the toughest moments of competition, and on the personal notes, kind words, and small gestures of support that have meant so much to the players and coaches alike. She acknowledges the power of this connection, the way fans become family, and the way their belief gives strength to the team even in its most challenging moments.

“Our fans are, without question, the best in the nation,” Gasso writes. “You have been with us through every inning, every win, every loss. You’ve been our twelfth player, our inspiration, and our joy. The love you show this program goes beyond what words can fully express, but I hope you know that we see you, we feel your support, and we are so thankful for every single one of you.”

Throughout the letter, Gasso also shines a light on those who work behind the scenes—the assistant coaches, the trainers, the support staff, the operations team, and the countless individuals who make the success of Oklahoma softball possible. She expresses deep appreciation for their tireless efforts, their commitment to excellence, and their selfless dedication to the athletes and the program. Gasso points out that while the players are the ones on the field, it is the collective work of the entire team, on and off the field, that makes greatness achievable.

“This program runs on the energy and passion of so many people who rarely get the spotlight but who deserve it just as much as anyone else,” she writes. “Thank you for every extra hour, every detail you handle, and every way you go above and beyond to help our student-athletes be the best they can be.”

Gasso takes time to thank the families of the players, who have made sacrifices to support their daughters’ dreams. She acknowledges the parents, siblings, and extended family members who have stood by the players, celebrated their successes, and offered comfort during tough times. The letter pays tribute to the role these families play in shaping strong, resilient, and compassionate young women who thrive both on the field and beyond.

To the university administration and athletic department, Gasso expresses gratitude for their vision and support, for believing in the potential of the softball program, and for providing the resources and environment needed for the athletes to succeed. She highlights the role of the university in fostering not just athletic excellence but also academic achievement, personal growth, and leadership development.

As the letter continues, Gasso reflects on the broader Sooner family—the alumni who laid the groundwork for today’s success, the former players who continue to support and mentor the current team, and the Norman community that has embraced Oklahoma softball as its own. She speaks of a shared identity, a collective pride that binds everyone together, and a sense of purpose that transcends wins and losses.

“What we have built here at Oklahoma is more than a team—it is a family, a community, a movement,” Gasso writes. “It is something that belongs to all of us, and it is something we will continue to cherish, protect, and grow. Our success is your success, because we do this together.”

What is striking about Gasso’s letter is its humility. Despite leading one of the most successful programs in the history of college softball, Gasso deflects attention from herself and instead shines a light on the people and the relationships that make it all possible. She does not dwell on records or accolades but on the character, commitment, and compassion that define Oklahoma softball. Her words are a powerful reminder that true greatness is found not in statistics but in the way a team uplifts those around it and represents its community with honor.

Gasso closes her letter by reaffirming her commitment to continuing this journey with the same passion, integrity, and purpose that have guided her for so many years. She promises that the program will keep striving to set a standard of excellence on and off the field, to serve as role models for young athletes, and to honor the trust and support of the fans and families who stand with them.

“This is not the end of our story—it’s just another chapter in a journey we share together,” she writes. “We will continue to play with heart, to compete with honor, and to make you proud to call yourselves part of the Sooner family. Thank you for everything. Thank you for believing in us. Thank you for being our family.”

As Patty Gasso’s open letter spreads across the Sooner Nation and beyond, it stands as a powerful testament to the values that make Oklahoma softball more than just a team. It is a message of gratitude, of unity, and of the enduring bonds that turn moments on the field into lifelong memories. It is a reminder that behind every championship is a network of support, love, and shared purpose—and that this is what truly defines a champion.