Friday, July 17, 2026
Courtesy Kendra Burtrum
Eskimo Joes celebrated 51 years with a full week of anniversary events, giveaways, and live entertainment.
‘Era 51’ anniversary week for Eskimo Joe’s Kalina Williams
STAFF REPORTER
This week Eskimo Joe’s reached its 51st anniversary surrounded by those that have helped bring immense success.
Eskimo Joe’s, a Stillwater staple, has provided entertainment since 1975 and food since 1984, eventually making it a national treasure. The theme for this year’s anniversary was “Era 51,” and was
celebrated through activities and to honor the hard work put in by many. During the week, live music, bingo and karaoke provided proceeds that went toward benefitting the Cancer Foundation
and Kickin’ Childhood Hunger organization. Over the weekend, the celebration continues with a kid’s carnival on Saturday and cupcakes Sunday morning with live music that night.
See ESKIMO on page 2
OSU Unified athletes look back on The Special Olympics Marcus Mesis
grandfather was a quarterback for the Cowboys in the ‘60s and his dad Roger Pfieffer played Tight End for Stillwater loves sports of all kinds the Cowboys in the ‘90’s. and earlier this summer, it showed Carter got a chance to continue that it’s more than just major sports. the family legacy and play for the The Special Olympics hosted OSU united flag football team. its annual Summer Games in “Yeah, it’s actually pretty cool Blaine, Minnesota. Stillwater and because becauseI actually learned Oklahoma State sent many athletes this from my dad when whenever he to the games. played football at Oklahoma State The event was a chance for one he told me, like, if you really really athlete in particular to continue want to do this you can – can show a familial legacy of playing for everybody who you are. I was like, Oklahoma State. For Carter Pfieffer, okay, we can– we could definitely do he got to continue what his dad that,” Carter said. and grandfather started when they played football for OSU. Pfeiffer’s See UNIFIED on page 3
STAFF REPORTER
Chance Marick, The O’Colly
As of Tuesday, July 14, 2026, The Code Calls campaign has surpassed $1 billion toward OSU’s $2 billion goal.
Oklahoma State’s The Code Calls campaign surpasses milestone Staff Report
Courtesy Erica Still
The OSU Unified Flag Football team was awarded sixth place at the games.
On July 14, 2026, Oklahoma State University’s “The Code Calls” campaign surpassed a milestone. The Code Calls historic comprehensive branding and fundraising campaign that OSU launched back in November, 2025 with an aim to transform lives, strengthen communities and elevate OSU’s impact across the state and more through private support.
On Tuesday, an announcement was sent by President Jim Hess to share that The Code Calls surpassed $1 billion toward their $2 billion goal. The announcement said the milestone “reflects the strength, generosity and belief of the Cowboy family — alumni, friends, partners and supporters who are investing in the future of our university and the students we serve.” Hess wrote in the email announcement.
See CODE on page 2
Page 2 Friday, July 17, 2026
O’Colly
Lifestyle Eskimo
Continued from 1 Since the beginning, Eskimo Joe’s has been a prime spot in Stillwater, but the creativity of Steve File, and determination of Clark, has continued to make the business grow. Clark knew from the beginning that the idea had potential but was worried this idea wouldn’t reach his expectations. “The night before we opened, Steve and I were sitting on top of a little building and were just thinking ‘what if no one comes,’” Clark said. “There was no guarantee that anyone would come, but something in our hearts told us we could do it.” Having only 72 shirts for sale opening week to receiving over 50,000 visitors per year, Eskimo Joe’s popularity continues to expand with time. For those who attended an event this week, the ability to provide entertainment for all ages was admirable. Emma Keith took part in bingo on Tuesday and was able to feel the excitement along with the uplifting community. “I felt like the environment was very lively and everyone enjoyed a fun night,” Keith said. “I feel like Eskimo Joe’s appeals to not only college kids but also brings in alumni. Everyone who’s been in or around Stillwater knows about it.” Visitors come for the food, cheese fries, and famous clothing , but those who work there are able to take part in the process giving them a deeper
Courtesy Kendra Burtrum
Archive photo of Eskimo Joe’s in Stillwater. look into what the business can do for others. For employee Grace Wells, she sees the impact that’s been made and how Stillwater town has been shaped around it. “I think it brings a sense of home and closeness to the whole community of Stillwater,” Wells said. “There’s a lot of outreach events and new clothing drops that really creates a culture around OSU that’s unlike any other.” Although primarily popular within the U.S., the anniversary brought in customers from areas such as Europe and Asia. While working, Wells was able to have contact with those travelling great distances and
realized the business was able to do more than she’d thought. “It’s really cool to see how far the Eskimo Joe’s culture has reached,” Wells said. “You can just tell that it’s something special going on here and means more than we think it does.” Although the restaurant is a year-round attraction, celebrating these moments adds an effect that becomes unnoticed. Keith hopes to see the success and positive energy continue in order to provide a way for many to come together. “With celebrating their 51st anniversary, I feel like they need to continue with what
they’re doing because it’s working,” Keith said. “I think they’re doing a great job.” The popularity doesn’t come from luck. The business takes pride in their customer service and prioritizes the reason why everything is possible. The service is what brings people back and attracts those from areas some might not think of. Clark was aware of the importance in being a trustworthy business, and ensured that the quality given will never diminish. Working in hospitality for several years has put him through trial and error, but one thing he knows that will remain is the customers. “The biggest thing is to have
empathy and care,” Clark said. “It’s not easy, it’s hard. It takes a lot of energy to be upbeat every shift for every hour, but every customer deserves that.” Clark continues to feel blessed by the community’s support, and is looking forward to seeing what the future will bring. His hard work along with his employees remains constant in order and continues to live out their mission statement being “delight every guest by doing my best.” This statement has been proven true which is why Eskimo Joe’s has been ‘Stillwater’s Jumpin’ Little Juke Joint’ for the past 51 years. news.ed@ocolly.com
Oklahoma State university President Jim Hess laughs with a donor during The Code Calls rally on the McKnight Center Plaza on Nov. 13, 2025.
Code
Continued from 1 He also gave recognition to those who are choosing to invest in OSU and all the college is wanting to do. “This achievement speaks to the trust our donors place in Oklahoma State University and in the vision we share for the future. Because of their generosity, the OSU System is better positioned to lead with purpose, serve with impact and prepare the next generation of leaders. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our students, our mission and the future we
are building together.” Hess’ announcement wrote. In the announcement, Hess reflected on the foundation that The Code Calls comes from. “Built on the Cowboy Code, The Code Calls honors our traditions while advancing an ambitious vision for the future of Oklahoma State University. At its heart, this campaign is about student success. It will expand life-changing scholarship opportunities, strengthen academic and research excellence, elevate OSU Athletics and extend the impact of our land-grant mission across Oklahoma and around the world.” Hess wrote in his announcement.
Following this, the announcement also gave acknowledgment toward the development that is being seen on campus due to the campaign. “We are already seeing the difference this campaign is making. Donor support is creating renewable scholarships, expanding career readiness support and helping students gain the resources, mentorship and community they need to thrive at OSU and after graduation.” Hess’ announcement wrote. In response to inquiry to comment, OSU Foundation President Blaire Atkinson, in an email, spoke to why this means for students.
“The most important thing for students to know is that this milestone represents real investment in their future,” Atkinson said in an email. “The support behind The Code Calls will help expand scholarships, create more opportunities for mentorship and leadership and strengthen the academic, research and campus experiences that prepare students for life after graduation.” Atkinson also spoke to what the milestone represents for the Cowboy family. “It also reinforces what The Code Calls is meant to represent. Our brand is strongest when people can see our values in action, and this
Chance Marick, The O’Colly
campaign gives us a powerful way to show how the Cowboy family supports students and serves others. Reaching the halfway mark is worth celebrating, but it also reminds us that there is more work ahead. As the Cowboy Code says, we finish what we start.” In his announcement, Hess shared similar sentiments in regards to there being more work ahead. “Reaching $1 billion is a significant step forward, but our work is not finished, and we’ll continue to answer the call. As the Cowboy Code reminds us: we finish what we start,”Hess’ announcement wrote. news.ed@ocolly.com
O’Colly
Friday, July 17, 2026 Page 3
Lifestyle
Jared Lowry fulfilling his lifelong goal of competing in the games.
Unified
Courtesy Erica Still
team who played in his first USA games at 40. “It (the games) kind of Continued from 1 means a lot, because it’s something that I may never get Carter was a member of an opportunity to do again,” the OSU Unified flag football Lowry said. “I’m already 40 team, which is a Special years old, and so it was. It was Olympic team that is a mix just one of those things that it of athletes with intellectual just worked out that I was able disabilities and athletes without to be a participant in this.” intellectual disabilities. Being on the team over the Carter has a rare genetic last two years has given Lowry disorder called Williamsa chance to get to know and Beuren syndrome which has befriend his teammates. impacted his ability to play “It’s just fun getting to be on sports a team, on a Special Olympics “It’s actually pretty cool to team, and especially for this play sports because it is actually USA Games, I felt like a team really fun to trying to get in got really close, and it kind of shape,” Carter said. almost became like we were Playing in the games wasn’t almost family in a way, so just a continuing family legacy because we got that close over for other athletes, it was a these last two years,” Lowry once-in-lifetime opportunity to said. achieve a lifelong goal. Jared It wasn’t just the other Lowry was another player on Special Olympic athletes that the OSU Unified flag football he got to know but also the
Courtesy Erica Still
Carter (#10), Dominic (#35) and Garrett (#3), along with the rest of the Unified team secured sixth place for OSU.
unified partners who were While at the games Lowry college students from OSU. got to participate in one of his “We had four unified favorite non-playing parts of partners, and I really felt like I the games, the pin trading. got to know them a lot better, “Every state got these pins because I kind of already that we got to trade, and so to known some of the special interact with people from other needs athletes on our team states, and you know, we traded from coming to the team, and pins, and we kind of got to, we have events on Thursday didn’t really get to know them nights,” Lowry said. “During that well, but just getting to the school year and stuff, and interact with other people from so I kind of felt like I already different states, and even people knew them a little bit, but that were from my state that I getting to know the unified don’t normally see, I felt like partners was a really big deal I got to know them a little bit for me.” better too,” Lowry said. With the unified partners for For many of the athletes, the team usually being college connecting with each other is students they are replaced fairly one of the parts that mattered often but that gives the team a the most to them . connection to the community “My teammates matter to me, that is hard to find elsewhere. and they’re probably gonna say “I think that’s where the it right back to me too,” Carter community comes from is said. getting all the unified partners Those connections overflow involved in our program,” into being teammates as well. Lowry said. “It’s actually pretty cool
Courtesy Erica Still
Carter Pfieffer carrying on his families legacy of playing for Oklahoma State University.
because you get to get to talk to your teammates after a game, like what should we have done better, and and and and we all go and figure it out,” Carter said. Lowry has been into sports his entire life but with his epilepsy it made life harder for him as he cannot drive so he has to rely on his parents to drive him. The Special Olympics has given him an outlet to be able to make friends. “Getting to see, you know, different disabilities, and I feel like being a part of Special Olympics, no matter where I’ve lived,”Lowry said. “It seems like that’s the place where I make the most friends, and that’s where my friends come from, is being a part of Special Olympics, no matter if I’m in Texas, whether I’m in Oklahoma, or whatever other state I end up living in.” news.ed@ocolly.com
Courtesy Erica Still
The Unified team represented OSU at the Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota from June 20-27, 2026.
A TRIUMPHED END! “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering , and the time of my departure Is at hand. I have fought a good fight. I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that Day, and not to me only but to all who have loved His appearing.”. (2 Tim.4:6-8 NKJ) Here is a man who has lived a life in serving the Lord Jesus and others. He is in a prison cell, expecting his execution at any time. According to history, Paul was beheaded at Rome. In his last words to a young man and minister, Timothy; Paul was looking ahead to greater and lasting judgement that would come from Christ himself. A
well done to a good and faithful servant. We all can take encouragement from his life of service to the Lord and his vision of something much better that awaited him. As Jesus neared the end of his life. He prayed:to God “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which you have given me to do. And now, O Father, glorify me...with the glory which I had with you before the world was.” (Jn.17:4-5 NKJ) Brother and Sister in Christ: Let us set our goal for a triumphed ending by finishing the work God has called us to do. If it be large or small to our eyes; no matter! Let’s be faithful to that calling and receive a greatly blessed entery into the eternal presence of God. Remember, this life is not the end. It is only a short beginning that will last for eternity.
Page 4 Friday, July 17, 2026
O’Colly
News/Lifestyle
How Our Daily Bread director hopes new ‘brain bags’ can support parents Caleson Coon
were working with them, and we count it out loud, name the thought, ‘wouldn’t it be cool if color,’” we could take that project to just Condley said the bags will be On July 8, 2026 Our Daily older kids?’” distributed through all Our Daily Bread and Resource Center Condley said after the Bread’s shopping sessions as well was given a $50,000 donation epiphany, they worked alongside as with community partners, from Google to serve childhood ECC to tailor the bags of what such as Stillwater Public Library, development in Payne County. they would consist of and Stillwater Pediatric Clinic, Our Our Daily Bread and Resource information to give out to Daily Bread’s mobile market and Center Executive Director families, and eventually, end up satellite sites in Cushing and Rachael Condley said it stemmed with “Better Brain Bags” for one Ripley. from them wanting to support to three-year olds. She said how the community families that have kids who The bags are to essentially receives the bags and gives they believe need healthy provide different things that can feedback will determine what development. be easily resourced by parents of they do with “Brain Bags” in the “We definitely know and young children to foster healthy future. believe that the first few months brain development and cognitive Condley also acknowledged of a child’s life are the most skill building. the significant investment that important for developing those She said the bags are an Google made in providing this brain connections,” Condley extension of extra support for support for Payne County. said. families that Our Daily Bread “It just shows that they’re The importance of early tries to provide for, and felt serious about helping us improve development is how the it would be a simple reach if our community and being part “Brain Bags” came to life in they could gain the funding to of our community and good collaboration with the Early support them in ordering all the neighbors,” Condley said. Childhood Coalition (ECC). The needed supplies. As for the “Brain Bags,” she 500 bags will contain essential Condley said the support is is eager to hear feedback from early childhood developmental intended to relieve a little stress the parents that the information tools for the families that Our of the parents as they understand provided is helpful and valuable Daily Bread serves in Payne the challenges of parenting. to them. County. “It can be really frustrating “I think just helping raise “The early childhood coalition and intimidating to think, ‘I’ve that awareness in the whole in Stillwater had developed this also got to develop their whole community, but then also better Brain Bag campaign – brain,” she said. “So, what I love providing tools for our families ‘Better Brain’ campaign – and most about tools [tools in the in a moment that might be pretty they make little bags of different “Brain Bags”] like this is, there stressful – providing something parenting tools and tips and are simple things you can do extra that hopefully takes the developmental information every single day with your child stress out of parenting, at least for newborns,” Condley said. that don’t take a lot of energy or for a short amount of time,” Chance Marick, The O’Colly “And they distribute those creativity. It’s just little things, Condley said. Our Daily Bread and Resource Center “Brain Bags” will be distrib- throughout the area, and so we like, ‘when you see something, uted through all shopping sessions along with community partners. news.ed@ocolly.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
What to actually bring for freshman year at OSU Delaney Waterman STAFF REPORTER
Living in a dorm for the first year of college is, for many, an entirely new experience. Whether it is a new roommate, communal bathroom, or just the shock of being at college, every student is going to have a different experience while living on campus. Having all of the necessities makes your first year at Oklahoma State easier. Here is what to bring and what you can live without. Dorm Decor & Accessories Dormitories are often blank canvasses to make your own. For those who plan to personalize their space, it is best to plan ahead before buying things such as wall decor, bedding, desk accessories, and more. Typically, there are rules in place when it comes to decorating. For most colleges, only stick-and-peel adhesive strips or hooks are allowed to prevent wall damage. Consider this before purchasing decor that is too heavy or requires separate parts in order to hang up. Chairs are typically provided
by the college, so there is no need to buy another. However, mattress toppers and pads are common, as many mattresses are less than ideal when it comes to comfort. For those who have underbed storage, investing in quality totes or heavy duty moving bags – such as those blue IKEA bags – makes all the difference. Though it may seem like a lot, organizers for makeup, cleaning supplies, toiletries,
FRESHMEN’S GENERAL MOVE-IN DAY IS AUG. 12-13
excess water. Mesh caddies can grow mold if stored and emptied improperly. Alongside a caddy, shower shoes will come in handy. Consider buying a pair of casual slippers if you plan on spending time in lounges or common areas. For clothes, a plastic rolling basket makes laundry simpler. Furthermore, if your dorm includes a clothing rack, invest in plenty of strong hangers. Shoe and pant organizers help to save space and make storage easier.
Food & Drink / Kitchen Residence halls often have communal kitchen areas that include basic utilities such as an oven, microwave and refrigerator. For those who have the space and plan to keep and even desk supplies help to drinks and other snacks, a mini keep things in the right place fridge is perfect. If the pricetag and the dorm room clean. is too steep, one can search Facebook Marketplace or find Hygiene Items an appliance store that will rent For those in dorms with a fridge. communal bathrooms, getting For those that plan to cook the right items is more than often, a small, basic set of necessary. Shower caddies have utensils is all that is needed. become popular and are one of And, while air fryers are the most used accessories. Be extremely popular, they take sure to purchase ones that are up space and are typically plastic and have holes to drain not allowed in dorm rooms.
Ellie Melero, The O’Colly
For freshman, Aug. 12-13 is general move-in day. Microwaves are unnecessary as well, as many dorms will have at least one. When settled into a new dorm, there may be things that you forget, or there may
be things that you did not think to purchase. Regardless, weighing the necessity of items before you move in aids in your process. news.ed@ocolly.com
O’Colly
Friday, July 17, 2026 Page 5
Friday, July 17, 2026
Chance Marick, The O’Colly
OSU football coach Eric Morris and the Big 12 back a 24-team College Football Playoff.
‘We need more access’
Big 12, OSU push for CFP expansion Timothy Christensen
own conference due diligence around it, and we think it might be a great fit for us.” Under one of the leading The College Football Playoff may have expanded only two proposals, the 24-team playoff seasons ago, but the Big 12 is would include the top 24 teams selected by the CFP already pushing for another Selection Committee at the change. end of the regular season, The CFP used a four-team eliminating automatic bids for format from 2014 through conference champions. The 2023 before expanding to eight highest-ranked teams 12 teams in 2024. Now, expansion seems to be on the would receive a first-round bye and a home playoff game horizon yet again. in the second round. The first The two most popular round would also consist of expansion concepts are 16home playoff games for the team and 24-team brackets. higher seeds. Big 12 Commissioner Brett That expanded field would Yormark advocates for the 24have dramatically changed team format. last season’s postseason “I liked 16 initially,” picture. For example, a 24Yormark said. “When team bracket would have 24 became part of the conversation, we’ve done our allowed five Big 12 teams to make the playoffs in 2025, as
STAFF REPORTER
opposed to only one (Texas Tech) in the 12-team format. Yormark believes a 24-team field would better showcase the conference’s depth. Though critics argue a 24-team playoff would lessen the importance of the regular season, supporters believe first-round byes and home playoff games would keep teams motivated to compete for higher seeds. “We need more access,” Yormark said. “I’m a firm believer in that. The Big 12 is a firm believer in that. Where that takes us, I can’t tell you today. I don’t have a crystal ball, but I want more access.” There are also downsides to the 24-team expansion, including the potential to eliminate conference championships to make room
in the schedule. “We do need to understand the economics,” Yormark said. “Is there a marketplace to go to 24? We have to understand the scheduling dynamic… as it relates to our championship game.” While Yormark understands the challenges for a 24-team expansion, the Big 12 will continue to push toward that goal. Along with Yormark, all 16 Big 12 coaches supported playoff expansion. Oklahoma State head coach Eric Morris echoed Yormark’s support, though his reasoning centered more on the experience for players and fans than conference representation. “I think that’s what everybody in America wants to see,” Morris said. “Just like
any other sport, they want to see the best against the best for as many weeks as possible… There’s a team that gets hot late, and it gets an opportunity to play something on that stage.” For Morris, expansion could also create opportunities for programs like OSU to host playoff games in Boone Pickens Stadium. “I think doing some of these playoff games early on some of these campuses is such a unique experience for the average fan and for the student bodies,” Morris said. “To be able to stay home in December and experience these atmospheres as a college student; that would be a memory for a lifetime.” sports.ed@ocolly.com
Page 6 Friday, July 17, 2026
O’Colly
Sports Brother’s championship fuels Wesloski’s goals at OSU Timothy Christensen STAFF REPORTER
There is nothing quite like a healthy sibling rivalry to light a competitive fire under players. Linebacker Ethan Wesloski was one of the 17 players who followed head coach Eric Morris from North Texas to Oklahoma State. He had a breakout year with UNT last season, playing in all 14 games for the Mean Green and totaling 113 tackles, including 59 solo tackles. His efforts earned him a spot on the AllAmerican Conference Second Team. While most of OSU’s offseason was highlighted by offensive additions, Ethan, a senior, brings talent and experience to a defense that has struggled heavily the past two seasons. Despite his success, Ethan is still striving for more, and the bar has been set by his little brother, Nick Wesloski. Nick was a freshman pitcher for the Oklahoma baseball team in 2025, contributing to the Sooners’ improbable run to the national championship. Despite finishing the regular season as the SEC’s 11th seed, the Sooners caught fire in the Men’s College World Series, defeating teams including No. 2 Georgia Tech, No. 3 Georgia and No. 5 North Carolina. Nick made his only three starts during his freshman year
Linebacker Ethan Wesloski hopes to match his brother’s championship success. in the postseason, two of which he needs to do this season to were in the MCWS. He started keep up with Nick’s trophy for the Sooners’ 13-2 win in the case: MCWS Final Game 3 against “I’ve got to win it,” Ethan the UNC Tar Heels, striking out said. “I’ve got to win the three while allowing five hits national championship… I’m and one run over 2 1/3 innings. going to try my hardest. I am That sibling rivalry has only going to go out there every intensified now that Ethan day and compete. I’m going wears orange and Nick wears to try and win the national crimson. With the brothers now championship game.” on opposite sides of Bedlam, Morris believes experienced the competition carries even players like Ethan are exactly more meaning. what OSU needed during its Ethan was blunt about what rebuild, stating that he is “really
hoping that that experience pays off for us in year one.” Along with his leadership, Ethan believes experience gives him another advantage. “I’ve been able to understand schematics,” Ethan said. “I am in my fourth year starting, but it’ll be my fifth year in college football. I’ve been around a lot of football; I understand what offenses like to go to in distances and situations.” Matching his younger brother’s championship won’t
Payton Little, The O’Colly
be easy after the Cowboys’ 1-11 season, but Oklahoma’s title run wasn’t expected either, giving Ethan confidence that anything is possible. “There’s a lot of positive stuff coming,” Ethan said. “There’s a lot of exciting football coming. We’re gonna cause a lot of chaos on defense, and this offense is electric, as you know. There’s a lot of games coming that we’re gonna win, and it’s going to be exciting to watch.” sports.ed@ocolly.com
From Stillwater to the World Cup Final Weston Wertzberger
where the field itself became a major storyline, and is now found at venues including When Spain and Argentina Soldier Field in Chicago, Ill., step onto the field for Sunday’s Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, 2026 FIFA World Cup Final, Pa., M&T Bank Stadium they won’t be playing on just in Baltimore, Md., Lincoln any field. Financial Field in Philadelphia, Under every pass, tackle Pa., and numerous NFL practice and goal will be Tahoma 31 facilities with over 400 facilities bermudagrass, a turfgrass and golf courses worldwide. variety developed at Oklahoma Wu said the issue during State University after more Super Bowl LVII was not than a decade of research. Tahoma 31 itself, but the The World Cup Final at ryegrass overseeded on top of it. MetLife Stadium in East “Moisture on the ryegrass Rutherford, N.J., marks the made the grass become biggest stage yet for Tahoma 31, slippery,” he said. which has already been used Tahoma 31 also isn’t the only Courtesy of OSU OSU-developed grass to reach throughout the tournament. The grass was installed at three Tahoma 31 will be used for the FIFA World Cup Final on July 19, the global stage. Its predecessor, 2026, at Metlife Stadium. World Cup venues: Estadio NorthBridge bermudagrass, was BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico, previously used at Arrowhead varieties, Tahoma 31 was Those characteristics helped Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Stadium in Kansas City, officially released in 2017. the grass thrive in climates Calif., and MetLife Stadium Mo., and Estadio Akron in “That’s a very long time,” Wu stretching from Mexico to in East Rutherford, New Guadalajara, Mexico, during the said in a phone interview with California and New Jersey Jersey, where it will host the World Cup. the O’Colly. “There is a lot of during the tournament. championship match. Although fans watching technical research to examine Tahoma 31’s dense growth Tahoma 31 was developed Sunday will likely focus on turfgrass performance traits.” creates one of its biggest by OSU turfgrass researchers Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal According to Wu, Tahoma advantages for elite athletes. led by Regents Professor and and the trophy at stake, Wu 31 earned a spot on the World “Because this grass is very Turfgrass Physiology and admits he’ll be paying attention Cup stage because of qualities dense, it produces a very Genetics Program Director to something different. researchers had observed long uniform surface,” Wu said. Yanqi Wu. The project began “Everyone watches the game before its release. “That’s important for safety.” with germplasm research in and watches the players,” Wu “Quality, very dark green The variety has already the early 2000s. Wu made the said. “There are some people color, high density, and a very built an impressive resume original cross in 2006, and like me who watch the grass.” uniform surface and consistent beyond soccer. It was used for after years of testing against For Wu, knowing billions performance adapted to wide Super Bowl LVII at State Farm numerous experimental of viewers will watch a match environments,” he said. Stadium in Glendale, Ariz., SPORTS EDITOR
played on something developed in Stillwater is both exciting and rewarding. “We feel honored,” Wu said. “We contribute a little bit to this kind of big event.” The World Cup has also brought increased attention to OSU’s turfgrass program, with Wu saying he’s received interview requests from television stations, newspapers and conferences around the country. But while Tahoma 31 has reached the sport’s biggest stage, Wu said the research at OSU is far from finished. One of the program’s biggest priorities is developing future turfgrass varieties that require less water without sacrificing performance. “One thing is critical and a big challenge to society is water,” Wu said. “We develop new grasses that are droughtresistant to conserve irrigation water. That will benefit millions of families.” As the final kicks off Sunday, millions around the world will watch the world’s best soccer players compete for a championship. Few will notice the grass beneath them. For Wu and OSU, that’s perfectly fine. sports.ed@ocolly.com
O’Colly
Friday, July 17, 2026 Page 7
Sports OSU outfielder Conover selected by the San Diego Padres in 2026 MLB Draft Will Thorogood
before two standout seasons with OSU, Conover became the 78th player of the Josh Holliday Alex Conover represents era to be drafted and the 38th to Oklahoma State’s first and only be selected in the top 10 rounds. selection on day 1 of the 2026 In his sophomore season with MLB Draft on Saturday, as the the Cowboys, Conover appeared San Diego Padres selected him in 41 games and started in 30. with the 134th overall pick in He batted .254 with six home the fourth round. runs and 22 RBIs, making After a year at Cowley College himself a young and promising
outfielder for the team. Conover took his performance to the next level this past season with consistency at the plate. In 58 games, he led OSU with a .357 batting average, smashing 14 home runs and 14 doubles, driving in 37 runs. Conover was a big presence on the bases, as he led the team with 16 stolen bases and a .476
Cowboys add four more picks, high school commit drafted
as junior infielder Avery Ortiz was selected by the Washington Nationals in the 18th round of the 2026 MLB Draft as the 526th overall pick. The Tulsa native has spent three seasons with the Cowboys but was limited on the field due to injuries for the second consecutive year. This past season, he went .261/.358/.493 with a .851 OPS with four home runs, four doubles and 14 RBI. Ortiz started 17 of his 19 appearances, with all but two coming after April 7 following an early-season injury on opening weekend that sidelined him for nearly two months as he shifted from shortstop to second base in his return. He’s only played 36 games over the past two seasons. Although he saw his numbers improve in 2026, Ortiz has the option to return to OSU with two years of eligibility remaining as one of the Cowboys’ most experienced infielders.
STAFF REPORTER
Day 2 MLB Draft Weston Wertzberger & Will Thorogood STAFF REPORT
Four more Oklahoma State players heard their names called on Day 2 of the 2026 MLB Draft on Sunday, along with one Cowboys high school commit. Not all of them may begin their professional careers immediately, but each took another step toward the major leagues with their selections. Here’s a look at who and where these Cowboys got drafted by. SS Dylan Bowen (High school commit) Dylan Bowen, who announced his commitment to OSU back in November 2024, was selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the fifth round of the 2026 MLB Draft as the 154th overall pick. Bowen, a shortstop for Hanover Central High School in Cedar Lake, Ind., was the No. 105 prospect on the MLB Pipeline prospect rankings entering the draft. According to Perfect Game, he was the 111th-ranked prospect in the nation and the fourth in the state of Indiana. Bowen’s decision could come down to whether the Reds offer enough to persuade him to forgo college. His assigned slot value is $463,200, according to MLB. It will be an important decision for him to make in the next few weeks, as both the Reds and the Cowboys await it. LHP Hudson Barrett After going undrafted in last year’s draft, Hudson Barrett had a change of scenery by transferring to OSU from UC Santa Barbara, which paid off as the left-handed pitcher was selected by the Colorado Rockies in the eighth round of the 2026 MLB Draft with the 224th overall pick. Barrett was over a year removed from Tommy John surgery when he took the mound for the Cowboys in February, and he got off to
a fantastic start at his new home with two solid outings against Grand Canyon and Sam Houston that saw him strike out 19 batters and walk two through the two games. The momentum came crashing down in Barrett’s next start against Gardner-Webb, when he left the game in the second inning with an injury. He missed about two weeks before returning to the rotation. Barrett delivered key starts against Arizona, UCF in the Big 12 Tournament and USC Upstate in the NCAA Tournament, recording at least four strikeouts in all three of those starts. He finished the year with 33 hits, 21 runs and 15 walks allowed, along with 64 strikeouts and a 2.58 ERA in 45 1/3 innings. With an eighth-round selection and a slot value of $258,400, Barrett appears to have a strong opportunity to begin his professional career.
on-base percentage. Big 12 play saw him continue to shine with a league-high .416 batting average. Conover added to that with nine doubles, 11 home runs and 24 RBIs. That success in conference play earned him All-Big 12 First Team honors. With a great defensive ability and a consistent bat,
RHP Mario Pesca OSU’s pitching staff produced OF Kollin Ritchie another draft pick as senior Surprisingly, Kollin Ritchie right-hander Mario Pesca fell all the way down to the 20th was selected by the Cleveland and final round of the 2026 Guardians in the ninth round MLB Draft as he was picked of the 2026 MLB Draft as the at No. 594 by the St. Louis 273rd overall pick. Cardinals, representing OSU’s Pesca spent his final two fifth and final selection of this seasons in Stillwater after year’s draft. transferring from St. John’s in With the circumstances, the 2024 offseason. This past Ritchie took to his Instagram season, he posted a 5.86 ERA account to announce that he in 70 2/3 innings pitched with would be returning to OSU for 80 strikeouts, 31 walks, 13 hitthe 2027 season, citing “A lot by-pitches and a .280 opposing can happen in this game … and batting average. sometimes things don’t always He started 10 games and go the way you pictured them.” made nine relief appearances Ritchie turned in one of after opening the season in the the best offensive seasons in rotation before transitioning to program history, mashing 75 the bullpen in May because of hits, 75 RBIs and 31 home a blister on his throwing hand. runs to add to a .326 batting He posted a 7-5 record with average in his junior season. one complete game against He was a semifinalist for the Gardner-Webb on March 8 and Golden Spikes Award and was had two saves. named an All-American by the Pesca finished his career National Collegiate Baseball with a 4.79 ERA and a 21-14 Writers Association after the record with 226 strikeouts and season. 108 walks over 259 1/3 innings After being selected in the pitched in four seasons. MLB Draft for the second time, His pick value is $205,800, he looks to use one more season according to MLB. with the Cowboys to improve his draft stock and position INF Avery Ortiz himself for an earlier selection The next Cowboy to be in next year’s draft. selected went nine rounds later sports.ed@ocolly.com
the Padres hope that Conover can continue that performance into their farm system as he works his way up to the big leagues. If he can do so, he would likely find himself with a good pair of outfielders in Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jackson Merrill. His MLB pick value is listed at $563,900. sports.ed@ocolly.com
Catherine Dzanski, The O’Colly
Kollin Ritchie announces his return to OSU for the 2027 season.
Ritchie returning to OSU for 2027 season Weston Wertzberger
highest single-season total in program history, only behind Pete Incaviglia’s 48 Oklahoma State will have in 1984, and ranked fourth one of college baseball’s nationally in home runs top hitters back for another while leading the Big 12. season. He also ranked third in All-American and the conference in RBI and Golden Spikes semifinalist second in runs. Kollin Ritchie announced Entering the MLB Draft, on Sunday via Instagram Ritchie — ranked No. 84 by that he is returning to MLB Pipeline — was widely the Cowboys for the 2027 projected to be selected on season. Day 1 or early on Day 2. “A lot can happen in this However, that speculation game, and sometimes things didn’t come as planned. don’t always go the way The St. Louis Cardinals you pictured them,” Ritchie eventually selected Ritchie wrote. “I’m extremely in the 20th and final round thankful for the opportunity with the No. 594 overall to go through the draft pick. He was one of five process and for everyone Cowboys to be selected in who has supported me the 2026 MLB Draft. along the way. After a lot of According to a source in thought and conversations an X post by D1Baseball’s with my family, I’ve decided Daniel Allen, “Because no to come back to Oklahoma assigned slot values exist State for one more for draftees selected beyond season and keep working the 10th round, the internal toward what we set out to expectation within OSU’s accomplish. program was that Ritchie “I’m excited to get back would return for his senior to work, be around my season as soon as he slipped teammates again, and give past that point.” everything I have to this This becomes the second next season. Thank you to time Ritchie will pass on everyone who has been in professional baseball and my corner throughout this will return to Stillwater. journey. We’re not done yet. Three years ago, he was Go Pokes.” selected out of Atoka High The junior outfielder School by the Baltimore was coming off a season Orioles in the 19th Round of for the ages with a slash the 2023 Draft. line of .326/.462/.804 in 60 Ritchie has two seasons games with 31 home runs, of eligibility remaining, 81 runs scored and 75 RBIs. though his decision gives He totaled 185 bases while the Cowboys at least one posting a 1.266 OPS and a more season with one of 174 wRC+. the nation’s premier power Ritchie’s home run hitters. mark was the secondsports.ed@ocolly.com SPORTS EDITOR
Page 8 Friday, July 17, 2026
O’Colly
Sports Former OSU pitcher Wrobleski named to 2026 MLB All-Star Game Will Thorogood
STAFF REPORTER
Following up a World Series title last season, former Oklahoma State left-hander Justin Wrobleski was named to the National League All-Star team to represent the Los Angeles Dodgers in the Midsummer Classic on Tuesday at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pa. He replaced Cincinnati Reds pitcher Chase Burns in the All-Star Game and pitched two innings with five strikeouts and one hit allowed (a home run by Miguel Vargas) in the NL’s 4-0 loss. Wrobleski is now the eighth OSU alumnus to be invited to the All-Star game, the first since Robin Ventura back in 2002. That list also includes Allie P. Reynolds, Mickey Tettleton, Jeromy Burnitz, Mike Henneman, Joel Horlen, Scott Williamson and John Farrell, who represented the Boston Red Sox as the American League manager in the 2014 AllStar Game after winning a World Series title the previous year. Wrobleski began this season as a reliever, but transitioned into a starter role after fellow lefthander Blake Snell went on the IL with an elbow injury back in May. He has stepped up well into the role with a 10-2 record, 2.69 ERA and 73 strikeouts in 100 1/3 innings. Wrobleski ranks third in the National League in wins and eighth in ERA, along with being fourth in WHIP (1.02) and ninth in batting average against (.217). Wrobleski was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 36th round of the 2018 MLB Draft out of Sequoyah High School in Canton, Georgia, but he chose to play college baseball, committing to Clemson. With the Tigers in 2019, he compiled an 0-2 record and a 10.38 ERA in 10 appearances, three starts and 13 innings. Wrobleski allowed 16 hits and 14 walks, and struck out 15 batters, holding left-handed batters to a .053 batting average and keeping the 197 batters he faced at an average of .083 in two-out situations. Wrobleski transferred to the State College of Florida, ManateeSarasota, for the following season, but made only four appearances due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which canceled the season. In his
Meola signs free agent deal with Colorado Rockies Weston Wertzberger
he had broken his wrist before the NCAA Tuscaloosa Regional. Another Oklahoma State Meola capped off his baseball player is headed career with his best to professional baseball. season, batting .320 in 50 OSU third baseman games with 17 home runs, Aidan Meola has agreed to 48 runs and 69 RBIs. As a a free agent deal with the fifth-year senior, he ranked Colorado Rockies, it was fourth nationally with announced on Tuesday. 1.38 RBIs per game, and He becomes the sixth he tallied 125 total bases, Cowboy to be recognized a .644 slugging percentage by an MLB team after five and a 1.069 OPS for a 144 players were selected in wRC+ mark. the 2026 MLB Draft. Meola Meola earned All-Big will also join teammate 12 Second Team honors left-handed pitcher as one of five infielders Hudson Barrett after the recognized by the Rockies selected him on conference. He was also Saturday in the eighth named Big 12 Player of round. the Week in February after Over the course of five homering in all four games seasons, Meola battled against Grand Canyon, injuries and played just including a grand slam in 13 games last season after the series-clinching victory. undergoing shoulder Over the course of his surgery. He appeared in career, Meola finished 50 games this season, with .316/.399/.583 and the most in a single year a .982 OPS in 149 games during his OSU career. played, recording 32 Still, his collegiate career homers, 107 runs and 152 came to an abrupt end RBIs. when sources reported sports.ed@ocolly.com SPORTS EDITOR
Courtesy of OSU Athletics
Former OSU pitcher Justin Wrobleski named to NL All-Star. short time on the mound with the Manatees, he pitched 18 2/3 innings, allowing eight hits and 14 runs while striking out 27 batters. Wrobleski then settled in Stillwater with the opportunity to play in the Cowboys’ inaugural season at O’Brate Stadium. He started well in 2021, going 3-2 with 50 strikeouts in 40 2/3 innings and eight starts. Wrobleski’s season at OSU was cut short when he suffered a torn UCL in a 12-6 loss to TCU on April 18, but his solid showing with the Cowboys earned him his second call from an MLB team. Two months into his recovery from Tommy John surgery, Wrobleski was selected by the Dodgers in the 11th round of the 2021 MLB Draft. The recovery delayed his minor league debut by a year, but he was ready once he returned to the mound. Wrobleski started with the Arizona Complex League Dodgers before being called up to the Dodgers’ Single-A affiliate, the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, on Aug. 26. Between the two teams, he pitched 21 2/3 innings in 13 appearances and 10 starts, allowing 20 hits, seven runs and five walks, as he struck out 26 batters. Wrobleski would spend the entire 2023 season with the Dodgers’ High-A team, the Great Lakes Loons, receiving an ample amount of time on the mound. He pitched 102 1/3 innings through 25 appearances and 23 starts, surrendering 93 hits, 37 runs and 35 walks, making up for it with 109 strikeouts. Wrobleski split his time in 2024 between the Tulsa Drillers and the Oklahoma City Baseball Club, the Double-A and Triple-A
affiliates of the Dodgers. The hard work he put in for both of the teams resulted in a dream coming true when the Dodgers purchased his contract on July 7 and promoted him to the Major League roster. Wrobleski finished out the year at the MLB level, recording a 5.70 ERA in eight games and six starts. Through 36 1/3 innings, he gave up 34 hits, 24 runs and 16 walks, striking out 26 batters. The Dodgers won the World Series that year, but Wrobleski was not on the postseason roster. Despite being on the Dodgers’ 2025 opening day roster, Wrobleski was optioned to Oklahoma City but returned to the professional roster after 11 appearances with the Comets. He played a big role in the Dodgers repeating as World Series champions in a sevengame series with the Toronto Blue Jays, allowing four hits and no runs with six strikeouts in four appearances and five innings. Wrobleski had a notable moment in Game 7 when he hit Andres Gimenez with a pitch in the bottom of the fourth inning, causing the benches to clear and warnings to be issued to both sides without ejections. It would not matter as the Dodgers came back to win the game 5-4 in extra innings. Ever since the Tommy John surgery setback in 2021, he has recovered well and become one of the best pitchers in the league. With a World Series title and now an All-Star selection, Wrobleski looks to carry this momentum into the second half of the season as he and the Dodgers look to be the first team to win three World Series in a row since the New York Yankees from 1998 to 2000. sports.ed@ocolly.com
Matthew Miner, The O’Colly
Infielder Aidan Meola signs a free agent contract with the Colorado Rockies.
THE O’COLLY SPORTS PICKS - WORLD CUP THIRD PLACE AND FINAL GAMES
Weston Wertzberger
Will Thorogood
Cayden Cox
Ryan Ruston
Marcus Mesis
Logan Cole
Timothy Christensen
France vs. England
France 2-1
England 2-0
France 3-1
England 2-1
Spain 3-1
England 1-1 (Pens)
France 2-0
Spain vs. Argentina
Argentina 2-2 (Pens)
Argentina 3-2
Spain 3-1
Spain 2-0
France 4-3
Argentina 2-1
Spain 2-0
he t t ou k c e Ch
way! a e d i al H n i g i Or
SINCE 1957,
230 S. Knoblock St. Stillwater, OK 74074
Stop in for fresh Fried Mushrooms or Pizza made to your liking!