Keilani Ricketts’s three messages to the Oklahoma Head Coach Patty Gasso about Honda Broderick Cup win given to the top female college athlete “She was a two-time USA Softball Player of the Year and is the only Sooner to win the Honda Cup as the nation’s top female college athlete”…

Keilani Ricketts’s three messages to the Oklahoma Head Coach Patty Gasso about Honda Broderick Cup win given to the top female college athlete “She was a two-time USA Softball Player of the Year and is the only Sooner to win the Honda Cup as the nation’s top female college athlete”…

 

Message 1: Gratitude and Reflection

Coach Gasso,

I just wanted to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Winning the Honda Broderick Cup feels surreal, but I know I didn’t get here alone. From the moment I stepped on campus, you believed in me. You pushed me to be more than just a pitcher, more than just a player. You helped me grow into someone who could lead, who could handle the pressure, and who could represent the University of Oklahoma on the biggest stages.

This award may have my name on it, but it reflects everything you’ve poured into this program — your relentless drive, your high expectations, and your unwavering support. I hope you know this is our home.

Message 2: Representing the Program

Coach,

When they called my name for the Honda Cup, all I could think about was wearing the crimson and cream and what it meant to represent OU. This isn’t just a personal milestone — it’s a win for our entire softball family. You’ve built a culture where excellence is the standard, but character and heart matter just as much. I hope I’ve made you proud, not just in what I’ve achieved on the field, but in how I’ve tried to carry myself off of it.

Being the only Sooner to win this award means more because of the legacy of greatness you’ve built here. I know I’m standing on the shoulders of the women who came before me — and I can’t wait to see the ones who will follow.

Message 3: Inspiration for the Future

Coach Gasso,

This award has inspired me to think beyond myself. You’ve always taught us that softball is a platform — a way to influence others, to inspire younger girls, and to honor the gifts we’ve been given. Winning the Honda Cup reminded me that I have a responsibility to pay it forward, just like you’ve done for all of us.

I want to be the kind of leader and mentor you’ve been to me — someone who demands greatness but never loses sight of the person behind the athlete. Thank you for showing me how to do that, every single day.

This honor belongs to you just as much as it does to me.

With love and gratitude,Keilani

These messages reflect the profound connection between a coach and athlete and highlight the shared journey behind such a prestigious recognition. Keilani Ricketts’s Honda Broderick Cup win was not just a personal achievement — it was a testament to the program, its leadership, and the values instilled by Coach Patty Gasso.