CONGRATULATIONS: Former Nebraska Coach Tom Osborne Awarded Prestigious National Football Foundation Gold Medal
New York, NY – May 9, 2025 – Legendary former Nebraska Cornhuskers football coach Tom Osborne has been awarded the esteemed National Football Foundation (NFF) Gold Medal, the highest honor presented by the organization. The award celebrates Osborne’s extraordinary contributions to college football and his lifelong dedication to leadership, integrity, and service on and off the field.
Tom Osborne, 88, is widely regarded as one of the most iconic coaches in NCAA history, having led the Cornhuskers from 1973 to 1997. During his 25-year tenure, Osborne amassed a stunning 255–49–3 record, three national championships, and 13 conference titles, cementing his place among the all-time greats in the sport.
But the NFF Gold Medal recognizes more than just wins and championships. Osborne has been honored for his character, mentorship, and profound impact on student-athletes, both during and after his coaching career. After retiring from coaching, Osborne served as a U.S. Congressman and later returned to the University of Nebraska as Athletic Director, continuing to shape lives through education and sport.
In accepting the award at the NFF Annual Awards Dinner in New York City, Osborne said, “I’ve always believed that football is about building people, not just programs. This honor belongs to the many players, coaches, and staff who walked this journey with me.” His humble remarks were met with a standing ovation from an audience filled with football legends, university officials, and supporters.
Osborne’s influence extends far beyond the football field. He co-founded the TeamMates Mentoring Program, which has supported thousands of young people across the Midwest, providing guidance, encouragement, and opportunity to at-risk youth. The NFF cited this initiative as a shining example of how sports can be used to change lives.
Nebraska fans and alumni across the country have taken to social media to celebrate the honor. “Coach Osborne is the heart and soul of Husker football,” one fan posted. “No one deserves this more.” Current Cornhuskers coach Matt Rhule called Osborne “a living blueprint of leadership and humility.”
As Tom Osborne adds another prestigious accolade to his legacy, his enduring impact remains clear: he is not only a coach of champions, but a builder of character, a mentor to generations, and now, a Gold Medal honoree whose influence will live on for decades to come.
