Senate recognizes Oklahoma State football coach Mike Gundy, award winning athletes

The state Senate on Tuesday welcomed Oklahoma State University head football coach Mike Gundy and Cowboy football stars Justin Blackmon and Dan Bailey.

The Cowboys finished the 2010 season with an 11-2 record. Gundy was honored as the Big XII Coach of the Year and was a finalist for the Eddie Robinson National Coach of the Year award and the Liberty Mutual National Coach of the Year award. The Senate on Monday approved three resolutions congratulating Gundy and his players on their accomplishments.

“We’re very proud of everything this team accomplished on the field this season,” said Sen. Jim Halligan, R-Stillwater. “More importantly, we’re grateful for the way they admirably represented their state and University. We’re honored to welcome Coach Gundy and these two exceptional student-athletes to the Senate Chamber.”

Blackmon established new Oklahoma State records in 2010 with 1,782 receiving yards, 20 touchdown catches and 111 receptions. He was honored with the Biletnikoff Award, distinguishing him as the nation’s best collegiate receiver. Blackmon was also the Big XII Offensive Player of the Year and a unanimous first-team All-America selection.

Bailey set a school record with 27 field goals in the 2010 season, converting 182 consecutive extra point attempts. He was named the Lou Groza Award winner as the nation’s top collegiate kicker, and was honored as the Big XII Special Teams Player of the Year. He finished his career as the fifth leading scorer in Big XII history.

“The accomplishments of this team and coaching staff are a tremendous source of pride for our state,” Halligan said. “I want to congratulate them on their well-deserved postseason honors. I’m particularly pleased Justin Blackmon has chosen to return to OSU next year to further his education and lead the Cowboys to another great season.”