Tom Osborne To Speak At Neligh-Oakdale On April 17

Former Nebraska football coach and TeamMates founder Tom Osborne will make a rare appearance in Neligh next month.

The public is encouraged to attend the Tom Osborne Tailgate on Friday, April 17, at the school gymnasium for a chance hear from the legend and help raise money for the Neligh-Oakdale TeamMates chapter. The evening will feature games for children, a silent auction, meal and a live auction of a football signed by Osborne.

TeamMates is a mentoring program facilitated through the school that matches community members with students. They meet for one hour each week, and this event will serve as the year’s key fundraiser.

“We’re excited to have Tom coming to Neligh to speak to the community and meet our wonderful mentors and mentees,” said Carrie Pitzer, president of the Neligh-Oakdale chapter. “This will be a fun event for all ages and a great opportunity for the community. It’s been several years since Tom visited Neligh, and we are very much looking forward to having him here.”

Pitzer said doors will open at 5 p.m. There will be free games for children and a silent auction throughout the evening. Among the silent auction items are Husker memorabilia, including signed balls by Tim Miles and John Cook. Businesses that would like to donate an item are encouraged to contact TeamMates board members.

After meeting with the local TeamMates members, Osborne will address the community at 6 p.m. A football will then be auctioned off that Osborne will sign. He’ll also take photos with the winner. 

At 6:30 p.m., a meal will be served in the school's multi-purpose room. Cost is $4 per person or $20 per family. The meal will be pulled pork sandwiches or hot dog, baked beans, chips, dessert and a drink.

“Not only is this a fundraiser for our organization, but it’s also an opportunity for family time with one of our state’s legends,” Pitzer said. “That’s why we’re capping the meal price at $20. We hope families come to the event and have fun together.”

People attending are encouraged to wear Husker apparel. 

For more information on donations of items or sponsoring items on the auction, please contact one of the following TeamMates Board of Director members: Carrie Pitzer 887-4000; Kay Schilling 887-4182; Erin Whitesel 929-0139 or Jenny Higgins 887-5037.