The O'Colly, Friday, June 6, 2025

Friday, June 6, 2025

Raynee Howell

Community, Creativity and Continuity: Native American Art in Everyday Life is on view through Aug. 23 at the OSU Museum of Art

The beauty within

Native American work on display at OSU Museum of Art

T

B Y M J N YA M D AVA A

he bold geometric shapes and vivid portrayals of everyday life didn’t just appear overnight on the walls of the Oklahoma State University Museum of Art.

They were chosen, curated and installed by students, guest curators and faculty — some handling artwork for the first time; others designing banner layouts by hand.

It all came together in an exhibition that tells a story.

I

S TA F F R E P O R T E R “I really hope visitors feel the connection to the exhibition’s themes right away, especially the sense of creativity and continuity in Native American daily life,” said Ladan Abdolahipourbadizi, one of nine students who co-curated the show.

“There’s so much beauty and depth in these artworks. Even though they reflect everyday moments, there’s something very modern and powerful in how they’re expressed.”

See BEAUTY on page 3

Stillwater airport presents new 20-year master plan

Review

RAYNEE HOWELL

Courtesy Ben Symons of PeacockTV Contestants of season seven of Love Island USA get acquainted before the first coupling ceremony.

The O’Colly predicts Love Island relationship fates RAYNEE HOWELL

NEWS AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR The famous phrase “It’s like a car crash, I can’t look away,” perfectly describes the 90-minute premiere of Love Island USA. From the second the contestants appeared on the screen lip-syncing and dancing, any reality TV fan could tell it would scratch the brain’s addictive itch to terrible, but addicting entertainment. The hype of last season was at the forefront of the mind as the intro ended and the first woman, Chelly, entered the Villa when the

council meeting, but it has been in the NEWS AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR works for far longer.

Research showed that the traffic at the airport exceeded previous predictions Stillwater Regional Airport has plans over the past five years. After the for the future beyond the construction of Covid-19 pandemic began in 2020, the a new terminal. amount of enplanements — which only Mead & Hunt, a planning and includes commercial service and charter construction services firm, created a flights — was expected to drop by about 20-year master plan outlining a vision 2,000.

It only dropped by about 1,000. for the airport’s future development.

The plan was approved at Monday’s city See AIRPORT on page 2

show aired Tuesday night.

Chelly, 27, spoke about good sex and being family-oriented in her introduction interview. It started the show off strong with one of its selling points — sex appeal. Olandria, another 27-year-old, followed closely behind Chelly. The Alabama native spoke about her time being single and how she was looking for a country man who could get his hands dirty. Thankfully, a man would enter the Villa in a cowboy hat later that day in hopes of winning her over.

See LOVE on page 3

Bryson Thadhani Stillwater Regional Airport’s 20-year master plan was approved at Monday’s city council meeting.

Page 2 Friday, June 6, 2025

O’Colly

News Airport

Courtesy City of Stillwater

press release.

The plan also includes future development for general aviation Continued from 1 through private investments and the construction of a new parallel taxiway to The numbers skyrocketed to exceed accommodate the growth on that side of the forecasts in the following years. By the airport. the end of 2025, Mead & Hunt predicts To financially support the the enplanements will reach 35,650, developments, the long term cost is which is 7,650 flights over the initial predicted to be around $161 million. The prediction. funding can come from the city, state “What this tells us is Stillwater grants, Federal Aviation Administration Regional Airport rebounded from the grants, private funding sources and Covid-19 pandemic a lot faster than we partnerships with OSU. anticipated,” Mead & Hunt employee Airport director Kellie Reed will Kelly Maddox said. “In fact, in 2023 and implement the projects as they arise and 2024, that rebound continued to occur are possible. much faster than we anticipated.”

“I would say that it (the plan) is meant The forecasts and analysis of the to be flexible,” Maddox said. “We know current facilities determined the that a plan is only as good as its first year, potential need for improvements. and after that it becomes out of date.

The existing terminal became the So, as priorities change… as funding main concern, prior to the decision to elements change, it is intended to be construct the airport terminal in its flexible to allow Kellie and the city to current construction site. implement the newer priorities as they Under the assumption that a terminal see fit.” could host two commercial airlines Mayor Will Joyce has continually — American Airlines and potentially expressed his excitement for the another service in the future — and improvements at the airport. He said chartered university flights, the analysis the number of the enplanements revealed it would need approximately surpassing the predictions was great to 29,500 square feet. The existing terminal see. building is about 10,000 square feet, “It’s also something we talk about a with 1,000 set aside for the fixed-base lot… needing to support our commercial operator. service by continuing to improve those “So you can see that even under the enplanements,” Joyce said. “We would 2020 conditions (the lowest number in love to see more people flying in and out the forecasts), the terminal building was of Stillwater. I think the new terminal upside down in needs,” Maddox said. “(It will have a great effect on helping get was) severely underwater.” the word out for folks that are looking The terminal currently being built to for a place to fly in and out of.” meet the airport’s needs is 31,375 square feet, according to a City of Stillwater news.ed@ocolly.com

Stillwater Fire Chief Terry Essary is leaving Stillwater Fire Department after 28 years of service to take on the role of chief at the Edmond Fire Department.

Stillwater fire chief takes on new role as chief of Edmond Fire Department RAYNEE HOWELL

wildfires… he’s not only an employee but a close friend of mine and our staff, NEWS AND LIFESTYLE so we just wish him the best.”

EDITOR EFC, a 160-person department is a step up for Essary from SFD’s After 28 years of service in Stillwater, 60-person staff. Essary will begin his Terry Essary is moving on. new position July 1.

Essary — who has been the chief of Deputy City Manager Christy Stillwater Fire Department since 2021 Driskel also wished Essary success in — began his career as a paramedic at his future endeavors after praising him SFD in 1997. Throughout the years, he for his work at SFD. was dedicated to training and learning “Chief Essary has been a pillar of through leadership programs and leadership and professionalism within courses at the National Fire Academy, the City of Stillwater,” Driskel said in a Center for Domestic Preparedness and press release. “His ability to lead with more. His efforts ultimately made him compassion, strength and expertise an ideal candidate for chief. has shaped the culture of our fire After four years at the helm, Essary department and left a lasting legacy.” had a chance to step into a new role at In Stillwater’s press release, Essary a new department. The Edmond Police spoke of his love for Stillwater and its Department announced Monday it is people. He said he will forever cherish hiring Essary to fill the position of its his time here, but is excited to embrace previous chief, Chris Goodwin, who his next steps. retired after seven years.

“As I begin this new chapter as fire The City of Stillwater announced his chief for the City of Edmond, I’m departure Thursday via press release, deeply honored and humbled by the after City Manager Brady Moore made opportunity to serve this incredible a statement at Monday’s city council community,” Essary said in Edmond’s meeting. Moore said Stillwater is sad press release. “Together, we will to see Essary go but excited for him to uphold our values, strengthen our take his next step. service and continue the tradition of “We all know Terry and Amber (his excellence that makes this department, wife) and his family and love them,” and this city, truly special.”

Moore said. “They’ve had a lasting impact on our community, especially his leadership during the recent March news.ed@ocolly.com

Bryson Thadhani The new terminal at Stillwater Regional Airport is expected to be completed and operational by August 2026.

O’Colly

Friday, June 6, 2025 Page 3

News/Lifestyle Love

Continued from 1 Huda, a 24-year-old mother and fitness coach, spoke in her interview about being a teen mom. She confided in Chelly and Olandria, forming bonds almost immediately.

The champagne began flowing and the shrieks of joy from the girls were following. Belle-A, who I immediately dubbed the token blonde, is a 22-yearold woman. She admitted in her interview that she is delusional; what a way to be self-aware.

Lastly, Yulissa, a 27-year-old woman who owns a mobile bar in Miami, ventured into the Villa. She would become the first to wear an ugly bikini and the first to steal someone’s man, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

The first guy to enter the Villa after the girls was the man who Yulissa stole after the first coupling. Ace, who previously met Chelly outside a club, described himself as a loverboy at heart. He also had his name tattooed across his back, which makes me think the person he loves the most at heart is himself. Ah, the jokes write themselves.

Nicholas, a 24-year-old nurse with curly hair, said he likes quality time and physical touch. He also referred to himself as feral and said he liked girls who were crazy. The girls all smiled and nodded along when he announced that.

Taylor, Olandria’s cowboy, is from Oklahoma. He presented himself as a rodeo man with southern charm. His biggest turn-off: Ugly feet.

Austin, a 26-year-old pool boy, constantly talked about his job, joking about seducing women who hung out by the pool. He also admitted to being a nervous guy, which clearly fit his personality more than the pool boy scam he was trying to pull.

After a glass of champagne and surface-level introductions, it was time for the first official coupling of the new season. Without meeting the future bombshells who will enter the Villa to

shake up the relationships, The O’Colly predicted which relationships will last after the first episode.

Chelly and Austin These two are only a couple because Yulissa stole Ace from Chelly. Chelly also said she loves outgoing men, and Austin is introverted. They seem like friends from high school in an awkward I’ll-wave-at-you-when-I-seeyou-around type of way. The verdict: 100% chance of break up.

Huda and Jeremiah It’s hard to tell whether Jeremiah is playing the game or is truly head over heels for Huda. He refused a mouth kiss from Yulissa and later took heat from the guys for being all-in on the first night. Huda seemed just as interested but told the girls she was being careful. The verdict: 25% chance of a messy break up, 75% chance of staying together.

Ace and Yulissa Ace is a player and would take any girl, even the host. He is only truly interested in Chelly. I thought Chelly dodged a bullet when Yulissa stole him, but after a chat and a secret kiss shared between them, there’s trouble brewing. The verdict: 100% chance of breakup. (Update: Yulissa has left the Villa with no explanation from the streaming service.)

Nicholas and Belle-A Belle-A is classy and sweet. In other words, probably too good for Nicholas.

She only offered up cheek kisses to the guys, but Nic kissed a girl while Belle-A was blindfolded. The verdict: 75% chance of breakup.

Olandria and Taylor By far my favorite couple. It’s like Taylor fell right into her lap. My main concern is how willing Olandria is to get to know other men. I know she’s keeping her options open, but Taylor is the right one. The verdict: 75% chance of staying together. news.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy Ben Symons of PeacockTV Contestant Taylor Williams on the new season of Love Island USA is from Oklahoma.

Raynee Howell The Native American art display teaches attendees about tradition and culture.

Beauty

checklist revisions, double-checking dimensions to ensure there’s enough room to display everything, confirming Continued from 1 artwork condition, etc.” King said.

“This process results in a tentative Community, Creativity and layout, grouping artworks in a logical Continuity: Native American Art in way to convey the stories the curators Everyday Life, on view through Aug. want to tell.

23, showcases Native artworks from “Of course, there is plenty of other 1940-1990, each piece reflecting the work behind the scenes – label and intimate ways tradition lives on in didactic text being written and revised, daily practice. It is the product of a exhibition branding and marketing, semester-long museum exhibition educational materials, etc. Once all course that gave students curatorial the artwork is laid out against the responsibility — from research to final gallery walls, there is typically further wall text. rearranging and final adjustments to The exhibit is a collective tribute to make sure everything looks cohesive the artists and cultures behind each visually.” object and a lesson in how traditions The process, he said, also helped continue. students take ownership of the “Native art is deeply rooted in exhibition, and that personal tradition but also constantly evolving,” investment is clear as visitors move said Hilary Luke De-Heer, a graphic through space. design master’s student. “We wanted Works such as Native Male Painting to show that creativity and cultural Outdoors by Cherokee artist Joan identity are always growing and Stone Hansen or Teaching Traditions changing.”

by Mary Adair Horsechief, who De-Heer, who designed marketing student curator De-Heer assigned to materials and researched artworks, research for the exhibition, capture found himself especially moved by a everyday moments with reverence — painting of a community dance. proof that cultural preservation isn’t “It reminded me how art brings just about what’s remembered, but people together and keeps traditions how it’s lived. alive,” he said.

“Everyday activities like basket From textiles to paintings, the works weaving, beadwork and dancing are highlight daily life. Activities such powerful art forms,” De-Heer said. as grinding corn or dancing aren’t “They deserve to be celebrated just as separate from art — they embody it. much as paintings or sculptures.”

Much of the collection was donated And that celebration is the point. in 2016 by Charles Little, a former OSU While the exhibit focuses on art faculty member with many works on from the 20th century, its message is public display for the first time. The current: Native traditions are not relics. students were challenged not only to They are expressions of living cultures. select from the collection but also to As visitors exit the gallery, they may respect and interpret what each piece find themselves thinking differently represented. That included researching about tradition — not as something tribal histories, contacting experts and fading, but as something continuous. understanding when to step back.

“I hope people walk away feeling Behind the scenes, Michael King, the inspired and more curious about museum’s preparator, helped students Native American cultures and life,” see what it takes to bring a curatorial Abdolahipourbadizi said. vision to life.

“We go through multiple rounds of news.ed@ocolly.com

Page 4 Friday, June 6, 2025

O’Colly

news Bringing life to campus

Review

OSU’s SUAB to host Summer on the Plaza KENZIE KRAICH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

With students out for break and faculty hidden in offices, Oklahoma State’s Student Union Activities Board is bringing life to a campus craving interaction.

The club’s annual Summer on the Plaza event was rained out this week but is scheduled to take place every Thursday through the end of June. It is set to host various Stillwater community partners, activities for the kids, great food and so much more.

While the initial thought of attending the event might entice young kids, there is plenty for parents and young adults to enjoy right alongside them. And, let’s face it, you’re never too old to have some fun on a waterslide.

Live music is the main pull for older attendees, with the only current listed artist being Mason Lough on June 12. Lough, who graduated from OSU in 2024, served as SUAB’s talent director from 2022-2023 and is now seemingly pursuing small outreach for a potential music career.

Stillwater Public School’s Book Bus will also be at the event. The “mobile library” provides easy access to books for children of all ages throughout the summer, making an appearance at the Summer on the Plaza a nobrainer for the program.

The university is diving into the opportunity as well, providing popsicles, dining options and opening the University Bookstore for the duration of the event.

Pete’s Pet Posse is rumored to bring some of Stillwater’s favorite four-legged friends, making the Student Union Plaza that much more inviting. news.ed@ocolly.com

Party/Semi-formal Pageant/Performace Wedding

Via @wickedmovie/Instagram The trailer for “Wicked: For Good” came out Wednesday ahead of the movie’s Nov. 21 release date.

‘Wicked: For Good’ trailer reveals new characters, music ALIYAH YOUNG

The dynamic between their characters, are consistent with the origins. It is teased to be romantic and now riding the magical and alluring.

STAFF REPORTER line of enemies, lets me know this sequel The short snippet of the yellow brick will have some good twists and turns. road looks as dreamy as I could have The anticipation for the second part of New characters have also been revealed: imagined.

I would say that for the “Wicked” is reaching new heights with the Cowardly Lion, who is rendered to style of this movie, none of the scenes the release of the first trailer for “Wicked: look like an actual lion, Dorothy, the Tin in this trailer disappointed. I would For Good.” be surprised if this sequel doesn’t Man and the Scarecrow.

Although the The trailer opens with a moody shot of a outperform the original, based on the faces of these characters are not shown, dark window reflecting the green glowing quality of this trailer.

“Wicked” fans may already know who lights of Oz. It left me with a good impression. It each one may be.

The window breaks, revealing Glinda was as fantastical and iconic as the first The first “Wicked” was praised for its (Ariana Grande) in her perfectly pristine one, with new twists and characters. cinematics, humor and storytelling, but pastel pink room. The long-standing most notably, for the music.

The incredibly The emotion, music and overall vibe feel tension between good and evil finally talented Grande and Erivo made the like a natural continuation of the first reaching a breaking point sets the tone for soundtracks iconic and addictive, so I am “Wicked.”

Sequels never seem to achieve the rest of the trailer. the same effect as the original movie, definitely excited to hear the music in The trailer definitely teased the movie “Wicked: For Good.” but I think “Wicked: For Good” will be just enough to keep fans intrigued. the outlier.

The song “For Good” was featured Familiar faces accompanied with new With a powerful cast and a storyline during the middle of the trailer, sung by scenes left me curious and wanting more. that already feels compelling, the trailer both Elphaba and Glinda.

This song and Specifically, the shot of Prince Fiyero suggests this sequel could be something many others can be expected in the official (Jonathan Bailey) leading an army toward truly unforgettable. soundtrack of the movie. a visibly-vulnerable Elphaba (Cynthia The aesthetic and visuals in this trailer Erivo). news.ed@ocolly.com

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O’Colly

Friday, June 6, 2025 Page 5

Friday, June 6, 2025

OSU’s Bratton tabbed national coach of the year WESTON WERTZBERGER STAFF WRITER

Oklahoma State men’s golf head coach Alan Bratton was named as the 2025 Dave Williams National Coach of the Year by the Golf Coaches Association of America on Tuesday, marking his second COY during his tenure at OSU. Bratton first won the distinction in 2018 after leading the Cowboys to their 11th national championship and was named a finalist for the award twice (2016, 2021).

In the final five tournaments of Bratton’s most recent season at the helm, OSU placed first, including the conference, regional and national tournaments, ending with a total of seven tournament victories.

The Cowboys won their 12th NCAA championship last week at Omni La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, CA. Since Bratton stepped in as head coach in 2013, OSU has won three Big 12 championships and two NCAA championships. This year was the first time since 2000 that Courtesy OSU Athletics the Cowboys have won both the Coach Alan Bratton (left) said Oklahoma State’s program has expectations to “be in the hunt” for a national title heading into the postseason. conference and national titles the most improbable duos in (2006) and head coach (2018, Year.

OSU’s all-time wins list with in the same season. college golf history in Matthew 2025).

During his playing career seven victories.

Bratton has produced 41 Wolff and Viktor Hovland, He has also had experience at OSU, Bratton was a fourThis season, Bratton led four tournament titles, 35 individual Bratton was named Big 12 as the Cowgirl head coach for time All-American, earning Cowboys to All-Central Region medalists, 29 All-Americans, 21 Coach of the Year in 2019. two seasons and as an assistant first-team honors in 1994 and honors, with Ethan Fang, Gaven Academic All-Americans and Bratton completed the for both the men’s and women’s 1995. He was also named Lane, Eric Lee and Preston Stout 31 All-Big 12 selections, further national championship trifecta teams for seven years. As the co-recipitant of the 1994 Jack all earning the accolade. Fang solidifying his impact on OSU’s a few years ago and is now a Cowgirl head coach from 2011- Nicklaus Award and won Big and Stout were also named first“golf school” traditions. four-time national champion 2013, Bratton won the 2013 Eight Player of the Year honors team All-Americans and Arnold After winning the conference at OSU. He won the title as a Big 12 Championship and was twice (1992, 1995).

Palmer Cup selections. title and producing one of player (1995), assistant coach named Big 12 Coach of the Bratton is tied for fourth on sports.ed@ocolly.com

THURSDAYS IN JUNE

Page 6 Friday, June 6, 2025

O’Colly

sports

Courtesy Mason Harbour/OSU Athletics OSU track and field will take part in the NCAA Championships from June 11-14 in Eugene, Oregon. Both the men’s and women’s teams will compete.

OSU track and field leading with ‘quiet confidence’ entering NCAA Championships PEARSON GILLAM

nationally in the hammer throw and aims to improve upon her fourth-place finish last time she took to the national With the NCAA Championships stage. creeping closer, it’s time for Oklahoma Greg Watson, assistant throwing State track and field to put past coach for OSU, has witnessed much of performances behind it and lace up for Robbins’ collegiate journey as the two four days of events. While Oklahoma were at Kansas State and LSU before State is undoubtedly prepared coming to Stillwater. physically, it remains mentally Junior Annie Molenhouse ranked composed as well – something that first in the country in the women’s couldn’t be said in recent years.

Heptathlon earlier this year and will be “We are going to the national meet in the mix for a possible podium finish right now, for the first time in a long in a couple of weeks. To have a strong time, without any real major anxiety outing, she will rely on her consistency cases,” OSU coach Dave Smith said. throughout the seven different events.

“Right now, we got a lot of people with “One of my strengths is actually that quiet confidence, a lot of poise, and I don’t have a high event,” Molenhouse that’s a great place to be.” said. “If something goes wrong, it That confidence is abundant among never goes drastically wrong – I can the women, despite losing some key make up for it, and I think that’s members from last year’s nationals what’s carried me through this season.” trip. The Cowgirls are hitting their Molenhouse arrived at OSU during stride and peaking at just the right a time of high expectations and has time. improved during her time in Stillwater This could very well indicate that thanks to belief in herself. yet another efficient outing is on the “I think having that mindset of… horizon in Eugene, Oregon. nothing’s ever given to me, and I have “Based on the number of people we to earn every single thing I’ve gotten get (to the NCAA Championships) on this team… that has kind of given and the number of points that come me the confidence,” Molenhouse said. out of it, we’re higher than almost any Josphine Mwaura had an program,” Smith said. outstanding performance at the Senior Emma Robbins leads the NCAA West Prelims. The sophomore way on the women’s side, entering skyrocketed in the women’s 10,000 her third appearance at the NCAA meters from No. 43 to No. 24 Championships. She sits fifth nationally, ultimately claiming the

STAFF REPORTER

TIME OF GOD’S FAVOR! “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” (Is.55:6 NIV) It is worthwhile to take the time; to stop and consider your way of life and make resolutions; new steps to take to make your life more meaningful or productive. Maybe you are doing this, or maybe you have just given up on the whole idea.

Can you remember when you were a child, how time went by so slowly? It seemed like it took forever for the holidays to arrive. Now time passes so swiftly; the years seem to rush by. The turn of the century seemed so far away when I was younger. Now we are nearly twenty years into the 21st century.

I want to encourage you to stop and consider your life; especially the remainder. None of us know when our life may end. Jesus spoke of those who

would come into their purposes in the “eleventh hour;” right at the end of life’s work day.(Mt.20) You may think that it is too late to turn your life over to Christ; there is such little time left on “your calendar.” Yet, those who come in at the “eleventh hour” will receive the same wages as those who labored the whole day. We need to work in God’s purpose for our lives while we still have time. The Bible tells us the time is coming when “no man can work.” (Jn.9:4) As you set your heart and get definite about trusting God with your life and serving him, you will find wonderful opportunities will open for you. You see God has his purposes for you planned out, and he will begin to open doors that you know nothing about. There will be such great satisfaction in serving and finishing what he has for you to accomplish. When your life does end, and it will, you will be so glad you have followed Christ. The Bible tells us that your labor for him is not in vain. (1 Co.15:58)

final ticket to nationals.

Fellow underclassman Isca Chelangat ranks No. 18 nationally in the 5,000 meters, joining good company in Cowgirl legends Taylor Roe and Gabby Hentemann to become the fourth Cowgirl to qualify for the event in the past five seasons.

Kaylie Politza punched her ticket in the 800 meters, becoming the seventh Cowgirl to make nationals in the event in the past five years. She enters the last meet of the season with the No. 17 spot in the nation.

For the Cowboys, experience is abundant as four of the five qualifiers have competed at the NCAA Championships before. They are aiming to remain focused and collected to put a plethora of points on the board.

“It’s just knowing that everyone on this team has the ability to stay composed, and they have been in these experiences before and produced at this bigger stage,” senior Alex Stitt said. “We have a good opportunity for everyone to score, which I don’t know when the last time we actually had that opportunity was, so I think it’s a testament to the culture that we’ve built over the last couple of years.”

The men’s confidence also stems from Smith’s coaching as they run patiently and wait for the perfect time to strike. This was on full display in the NCAA West Prelims when Stitt

catapulted from ninth to second in the final 100 meters of his 1,500-meter race to secure his third straight appearance at nationals.

“It’s kind of nice to run that way and know you can do that against the competition that you’re competing against,” Stitt said. “So having that speed and being able to run not only from the front, but also be able to sit back and be poised… and be able to trust in your instincts and kicks brings a lot of confidence.”

The duo of Fouad Messaoudi and Brian Musau rank eighth and sixth nationally in the 5000 meter, respectively. Musau placed fourth in the event last year as a freshman and will look to add to his already decorated trophy case. Sophomore Denish Kipngetich is also familiar with the NCAA Championships, finishing third in the 10K a season ago, and he will get another crack at the event next week.

In the field, senior Blair Anderson will make his first outing at the NCAA Championships in the long jump.

Anderson holds the second-best mark in program history and ranks No. 3 in the country.

The NCAA Championships will take place at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, from June 11-14. All the action can be caught on the family of ESPN networks. sports.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, June 6, 2025 Page 7

sports Cowgirl alumna Stark wins U.S. Women’s Open WYATT TESSIER STAFF REPORTER

Courtesy OSU Athletics OSU named Annie Young as Cowgirl golf’s newest head coach on Tuesday.

Young named Cowgirl golf head coach again WESTON WERTZBERGER

I’m convinced that (Young) is the right leader to take the program to that level.”

Oklahoma State women’s golf During her first stint as head named a new head coach Tuesday — coach, Young led the Cowgirls to one the Cowgirl program is all too the 2009 Big 12 title and a pair familiar with. of top-10 finishes at the NCAA Annie Young, a former AllChampionships. She also coached American at OSU, has been the program’s first individual promoted to head coach of the team national champion when Carolina after serving as assistant coach Hadwell won in 2010. Five Cowgirls this past season. She’s returning to were named All-Americans under Stillwater for her second tenure as Young’s direction. head coach of the Cowgirls, having While playing for the Cowgirls, previously coached OSU from 2008- Young earned first-team All-America 2011. and Big 12 Golfer of the Year honors “There was high-level interest as a senior in 2005. She was a twoin this job, which confirmed to time Big 12 individual champion, a me the position our program has two-time Big 12 team champion and nationally in women’s college golf,” finished as a national runner-up at OSU athletic director Chad Weiberg the NCAA Championship in 2004. said in a press release. “After many “With the recent renovation to discussions with golf coaches around Karsten (Creek), the men’s national the country, former Cowgirl golfers, championship and Maja Stark’s big current players on the team and win at the U.S. Open, it’s an exciting through conducting the interview time for Oklahoma State golf,” Young process, it became clear that the best said. “I’m grateful to Chad Weiberg candidate for the job was already in for giving me another opportunity Stillwater.” to lead this program. I’ve grown as a “Our goal for Cowgirl golf is to head coach over the last 14 years and compete for championships, much am eager to apply what I’ve learned.” like the Cowboy golf program, and “I look forward to reconnecting

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with Cowgirl alumni, engaging with the OSU community and building a championship culture that we can all be proud of.”

After a season at Cal State Northridge, Young coached Colorado State for six years, leading the Rams to a third-place finish at the Mountain West Championship, their best conference finish since 2010.

Young went on to coach at Tulsa for six years, leading the Golden Hurricane to their first American Athletic Conference title in 2021 and back-to-back NCAA Championship berths in 2023 and 2024. She was named AAC Coach of the Year twice (2021, 2024) and a finalist for national coach of the year in 2023.

Young will take over the program after Greg Robertson, the previous head coach, led the Cowgirls for five seasons.

Robertson coached OSU to two Big 12 titles in 2021 and 2023, guided Maddison Hinson-Tolchard to the individual championship last season and led the team to a national runner-up finish in 2021 — matching its program best. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Former Oklahoma State golfer Maja Stark won her first LPGA Major Championship, The Women’s U.S. Open, on Sunday at Erin Hills Golf Course in Wisconsin, becoming the second Cowgirl to win a major championship.

Stark, who joined the LPGA tour in 2022, a year after graduating from OSU, picked up her second-ever tournament win at 7-under par, beating the runner-up by two strokes. She played consistent golf over the weekend, shooting 70, 69, 70 and 72 in the four rounds, respectively.

“I tried to not look at the leaderboard and play my own game and stay aggressive,” Stark said in OSU’s press release. “I had a friend tell me, ‘You need to be confident and trust yourself.’ That’s what I tried to do, to make myself and my team proud.”

Stark won her first major through her approach shots and putting as she finished top five in strokes gained for each category.

The Cowgirl alumna has solidified herself as one of the top golfers in the LPGA, currently ranked No. 6 by USA Today. Stark is continuing what was a dominant career at OSU into the professional sphere.

She was named First Team AllAmerican, Big 12 Golfer of the Year and set multiple OSU school records while sporting the orange and black.

“I don’t really think I ever felt that my confidence was great,” Stark said in her post-win press conference. “I think I just stopped trying to control everything, and I just kind of let everything happen the way it happened.”

Stark was able to do something in this tournament that put herself above the rest – she didn’t have a round in which she went over. While she never shot the lowest, she played some of the most consistent golf in the tournament, with her highest score being a 72.

Stark had struggled weeks prior to this tournament with confidence in her ability to win a major, and in this tournament, she said her confidence wasn’t high either.

However, she was able to take it one shot at a time and focused on minimizing mistakes – something her competition wasn’t able to do.

“Then obviously with the pressure and everything, your mistakes get bigger, but it felt like I could just control anything that was thrown at me today.” Stark said.

As Stark is taking in all that comes with the victory, she doesn’t have long until the next major championship. The KPMG Women’s PGA Championship is set to kick off on June 19 at PGA Frisco in Frisco, Texas. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Claire Boomer Maja Stark becomes just the second Cowgirl to win a major championship in program history after her Women’s U.S. Open victory last Sunday.

Page 8 Friday, June 6, 2025

O’Colly

sports

Staffing changes, draft decisions drive OSU baseball’s offseason WESTON WERTZBERGER STAFF WRITER

This past Sunday, Cowboy baseball concluded its season in the Athens Regional final with a 3-2 loss to Duke, finishing with a 30-25 overall record.

The recap The Cowboys made two significant trips to the Lone Star State in the first three weeks, participating in the Shriners Children’s College Showdown in Arlington, Texas, and the Astros Foundation College Classic in Houston. Against the six nonconference major programs in the two trips, OSU went 3-3, with wins against Louisville, Mississippi State and former No. 1 Texas A&M. The Cowboys were barely able to hold onto a winning record entering conference play at 9-7 overall. They had a tough time finding their identity at first, going 1-6 in Big 12 action after a lone loss to West Virginia, a series loss at Utah and a sweep at Kansas to fall below .500 at 12-13.

After a midweek loss at Missouri State, OSU bounced back at home with a sweep against Kansas State and a series-opening win at Arizona for four-straight conference victories.

The Cowboys fell back into old habits after a four-game losing streak, including an 11-1 blowout loss at home to in-state rival Oklahoma.

Entering an April 27 series Payton Little finale at Cincinnati, OSU was in deep trouble at 18-21 overall Pitching coach Rob Walton (center) announced his retirement from the Oklahoma State baseball program last month. Finding his replacement will be a key part of the Cowand 6-11 in Big 12 play with its boys’ busy offseason.

11-year regional streak on the The future former Virginia coach Brian as he’s ranked No. 114 in the there are a few positions that line.

OSU pitching coach Rob O’Connor as the next head 2025 MLB Prospect Rankings. should be clear choices: Beau The Cowboys went on to win Walton announced his coach of the Bulldogs. Parker Harrison Bodendorf and Sylvester at catcher, Brayden nine of their last 10 regularretirement a few weeks ago, took over as interim head Hunter Watkins should be Smith at second base, Alex season games, finishing with ending a 13-year run with the coach when the team was back in the rotation.

Conover in left field and Kollin a 15-12 conference record.

Cowboys. He returned to his 25-19 overall and 7-14 in SEC Other pitchers who could Ritchie in right field.

They defeated Baylor in the alma mater in 2012 alongside play under the previous head contend for a spot next season Aidan Meola started at third Big 12 Tournament opener Josh Holliday, who was hired coach, Chris Lemonis. include Mario Pesca, Noah base before being injured, and before falling to Kansas in the as head coach that same He turned around the Wech, Matthew Brown and Brock Thompson has been a quarterfinal round. offseason.

Bulldogs’ season, going 11-4 Ryan Ure. great replacement since taking The late push was enough “He’s been fabulous,” overall and 8-1 in conference Catcher Ian Daugherty over the spot. for OSU to make the NCAA Holliday said. “Wonderful, play in his new role, which and first baseman Colin Meola could be moved Tournament with an RPI absolutely awesome. secured a spot in the NCAA Brueggemann have graduated, to first, and either Drew ranking of No. 44 and extend Wonderful partner.”

Tournament. However, and outfielder Nolan Schubart Culbertson or Avery Ortiz its 12-year streak of regional Holliday will have to search MSU was eliminated in the may be heading to the MLB will compete for the shortstop appearances. for a new candidate to take Tallahassee Regional.

Draft as well, ranked No. 122 position. Right field will see OSU, entering as a No.3 over the role, and one college OSU ranked No. 34 in the 2025 MLB Prospect someone new, and it might be seed, lost to No. 2 Duke in the baseball analyst believes in a nationally in earned run Rankings.

Jayson Jones. If not, he could Athens Regional opener before specific fit. average (4.55), while MSU Even though infielder moved around in the infield eliminating No. 4 Binghamton “Don’t be surprised if ranked higher at No. 27 (4.44). Aidan Meola is a senior, he again. and No. 1 (No. 7 overall) Justin Parker, Mississippi Hiring Parker as the Cowboys’ will return for next season, Overall, the Cowboys have a Georgia to advance to the State interim (head coach) next pitching coach could be according to an OState Daily lot of moves they could make regional final. The Cowboys and pitching coach, gets the move to make and improve post on X. He suffered a this offeseason, and it will be failed to force a winner-takehired at Oklahoma State as the bullpen for next season. season-ending labrum injury interesting to see which route all against Duke, missing out the pitching coach,” SEC Sean Youngerman, the in early March, earning him at Holliday and Co. decide to on the Super Regionals for a Unfiltered’s Harrison Cordell second ace in the OSU least one more year with the take. fifth consecutive season.

Fant said on X. pitching rotation, could be Cowboys.

This comes after MSU hired on his way to the MLB Draft As for the 2026 season, news.ed@ocolly.com

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