An Open Letter from Head Coach Patty Gasso to the Oklahoma Sooners Softball Team, Fans, and Sooner Community

Norman, Oklahoma — As the head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners softball team, I have been blessed to witness firsthand the incredible journey, growth, and spirit that define our program. Today, I feel compelled to share my heart and reflections with our players, our loyal fans, and the entire Sooner community, in light of recent events and the tremendous pride I have in this family we’ve built together.

To Our Players, Past and Present

First and foremost, to the young women who wear the crimson and cream with pride: you are the soul of this program. From your first day on campus, you commit not only to the game but to a legacy — a tradition of excellence that dates back decades. You are entrusted with more than just playing softball; you carry the hopes and dreams of every Sooner who came before you and every young athlete who looks up to you.

I want you to know that I see every ounce of effort, every early morning, every late night, every sacrifice made. The road is never easy. It demands discipline, grit, and an unshakable belief in yourself and your teammates. Sometimes it feels overwhelming — balancing academics, athletics, and personal lives — but the strength you build through this journey is invaluable. The character you develop here will serve you long after your playing days end.

This team is more than a collection of talented athletes; you are a sisterhood. A family. When you step on that field, you represent something greater than yourselves. You represent the University of Oklahoma, the state of Oklahoma, and a community that stands behind you unwaveringly. That responsibility is immense, but I have no doubt you are equal to the task.

Remember, greatness is not just about wins and losses. It’s about how you carry yourselves in victory and defeat. It’s about how you support each other, lift each other up, and confront adversity with courage and humility. Those lessons are what define true champions.

To Our Fans: The Heartbeat of Sooner Softball

To the incredible fans who fill Marita Hynes Field, who tune in from around the world, and who stand behind this program through every pitch, every inning, every season — thank you. Your passion, energy, and unwavering support are the lifeblood of our team.

You create an atmosphere that fuels our players’ performances. Your cheers echo through the stands and into the hearts of our athletes, reminding them they are not alone. You remind us that softball here is not just a sport; it’s a community celebration, a shared experience that binds generations together.

I ask you to continue to be that source of positive energy. To cheer loudly but respectfully, to uplift rather than criticize, and to always embody the spirit of good sportsmanship. The example you set from the stands teaches our players how to be ambassadors for the game and for our university.

Let us celebrate our players not only for their athletic achievements but also for their commitment to representing the values of integrity, respect, and resilience. We all share the pride of being Sooners — and that pride is magnified when we come together as one.

To the Sooner Community: Our Extended Family

Our community stretches far beyond the softball diamond. It includes alumni, families, university staff, local businesses, and every supporter who contributes to the fabric of what makes Oklahoma special.

Together, we have built a program that stands as a beacon of excellence in collegiate softball. But excellence is not static; it requires constant effort, adaptation, and unity. The challenges we face — on and off the field — are opportunities to grow stronger and more connected.

I urge the entire Sooner community to embrace this spirit. Support one another. Celebrate our collective achievements. Address challenges with openness and a willingness to learn. And above all, keep the lines of communication open so we can continue to build an environment where every athlete, coach, and supporter can thrive.

The Power of Respect and Sportsmanship

Recently, there have been moments that remind us how vital it is to uphold respect and sportsmanship at every level of competition. While the intensity of rivalry and the passion for victory run deep, we must never lose sight of the values that define us.

Softball is a game of skill, strategy, and heart. But it is also a game of respect — respect for opponents, officials, fans, and ourselves. The way we conduct ourselves reflects not just on our program but on our university and our community.

I challenge everyone involved in Sooner softball — players, coaches, fans, and community members alike — to be ambassadors of positivity. To celebrate the game with dignity, to honor our rivals for their efforts, and to hold ourselves to the highest standards of conduct.

By doing so, we honor the true spirit of competition and ensure that softball remains a source of joy and pride for all who love it.

Reflecting on Our Journey and Looking Ahead

Our journey has been marked by extraordinary highs and difficult lows. From national championships to tough losses, every moment has been a lesson in perseverance and unity.

I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to lead this program and to watch our athletes grow into incredible players and remarkable young women. Each season brings new challenges and new opportunities to rise above them.

As we look ahead, my promise to you all is this: we will continue to work tirelessly to build a program that not only competes at the highest level but also fosters growth, respect, and community. We will embrace innovation and tradition alike, learning from the past while forging a bold future.

Together, we will keep the Sooners softball legacy alive and thriving.

Gratitude for Those Who Made This Possible

None of this would be possible without the dedicated staff, trainers, medical team, academic advisors, and countless others who support our athletes behind the scenes. Your tireless efforts often go unseen but never unappreciated.

To the families who entrust us with their daughters, thank you for your faith and partnership. Your support is a cornerstone of our success.

And to the media and broader community who share our story with the world, thank you for amplifying our voice and helping us grow.

In closing, I want to express my deep pride in being part of this incredible family. The Oklahoma Sooners softball program is more than a team — it is a symbol of hope, hard work, and community spirit.

Let us continue to lift each other up, to celebrate our shared journey, and to embody the spirit of the Sooner family in all that we do.

Thank you for believing in us. Thank you for standing with us. And thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey.

With respect and gratitude,
Patty Gasso
Head Coach, Oklahoma Sooners Softball