STEPHEN OSBORNE
RiverHawks Baseball
“Family always comes first”…and for Stephen Osborne, the game of baseball is more than just a game, it’s a family tradition.
The 2023 graduate from Pryor High School and now a member of the Northeastern State RiverHawks starting lineup, has spent most of his life around the ballpark chasing the footsteps of his father, Gerald Osborne.
“I learned to love the game of baseball thanks to my dad. He taught me the mechanics of the game and the importance of hard work in everything I do,” said the NSU first baseman. “And through it all, I learned that family always comes first, at home as well as with my teammates.”
After high school, Osborne played two seasons at Connors State College before making the move to Tahlequah where his dad went to college before beginning his Hall of Fame coaching career.
“Dad and my sister (Emily) both graduated from Northeastern State. I chose NSU for several reasons including being part of a baseball program that has a tradition of success and the chance to join a new coach to establish a culture built on winning the day, on and off the field. And of course, it’s close to Pryor where I can still go home for dinner on an off day.”
The educational advantages available to students at NSU make it a good choice for every student, according to Osborne.
“Traditional in-person classes have a one-to-one relationship between the instructor and student. The online classes are a plus for my needs and the extra efforts of professors to post lectures online keeps you on track to making the grade,” explained Osborne, who pursue his degree in Health and Human Performance. “Professors at NSU care about you as an individual. They want to know how they can help students find success now and in the future.”
Osborne says the friendly family spirit that permeates across the University campus and the Tahlequah community is another reason for anyone choosing NSU.
“People around here are friendly and there’s a kinship between all the sports team and organizations to support each other. When football and basketball players come to our games and talk a little trash, it makes you want to play even better,” said Osborne recalling playing at Rousey Field in front of the “Rowdy crowd” that energized the RiverHawks efforts on the diamond.
“Northeastern State University opens the doors to success while developing lifelong lasting relationships just like your family at home. NSU is where you belong today, tomorrow and forever.”
