In October 2024, Oklahoma State University’s head football coach, Mike Gundy, experienced an unexpected injury during the team’s bye week. While attending to his ranch, Gundy was head-butted by one of his cattle, resulting in a significant eye injury. This incident led him to conduct his weekly press conference via Zoom rather than in person.
During the virtual session, Gundy humorously recounted the event: “I had a little run-in with my cattle over the weekend. I guess they’ve been watching us play, and I got headbutted.” He further described the injury, noting that his eye was “full of blood,” causing dizziness and making it challenging to remain upright. Despite these symptoms, Gundy maintained his characteristic humor, jesting about his “pretty face” and expressing optimism about his recovery.
At the time of the injury, the Cowboys were navigating a challenging season. After a promising 3-0 start, the team faced three consecutive losses to Utah, Kansas State, and West Virginia, bringing their record to 3-3 and 0-3 in Big 12 Conference play. This downturn marked their first 0-3 conference start since 2005. Gundy acknowledged the team’s struggles, stating, “Unfortunately, in life, most people are weak and as soon as things start to not go as good as what they thought, they fall apart and they panic.” He urged fans to trust in the program’s long-term plan, emphasizing that while solutions might not be immediate, the coaching staff was committed to turning the season around.
Despite the personal setback from his injury, Gundy remained dedicated to his coaching responsibilities. He assured the media and fans that he was “working the same hours” and that the injury was “no big deal.” His commitment underscored his resilience and dedication to the team during a period of adversity.
This incident added to the narrative of a challenging season for Oklahoma State football. The team’s performance on the field, combined with Gundy’s personal mishap, highlighted the unpredictable nature of sports and life. However, Gundy’s humor and steadfastness served as a reminder of the resilience required in collegiate athletics.
As the season progressed, the Cowboys faced the formidable task of reversing their fortunes. Gundy’s leadership, even in the face of personal and professional challenges, remained a cornerstone for the team. His ability to maintain a positive outlook and commitment to the program exemplified the perseverance that defines successful coaching tenures.
In retrospect, the October 2024 incident with the cattle became a memorable anecdote in Gundy’s storied career. It not only showcased his connection to his personal life outside of football but also his ability to navigate and lead through unforeseen challenges. For the Oklahoma State community, it was a testament to their coach’s resilience and unwavering dedication to the team.
