Legendary former Husker football coach Tom Osborne, 88, could be inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame in his lifetime.
That is, if Nebraska lawmakers pass new legislation introduced at the request of Governor Jim Pillen. LB1159 updates current law that governs the nomination process for the Nebraska Hall of Fame. Currently, the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission may induct no more than one person every five years, following a structured nomination, review and public hearing process that spans the entire five-year period.
Individuals may be considered at least 35 years following their death.
But if passed, the Commission would be able to nominate one living person to be installed in the Nebraska Hall of Fame. Such a nomination would need to occur prior to January 1, 2027. The bill, introduced by Senator Dan Lonowski, describes the specific criteria of the person being named.
The proposal is widely understood to clear the way for the nomination of Osborne, who Pillen played under from 1975-78.
“It is no secret that this legislation would place Coach Tom Osborne permanently in the halls of the Nebraska Capitol,” said Gov. Pillen. “Our state is indebted to Coach and all the great things he has accomplished during his lifetime. It is time we recognize him appropriately and I’m very pleased that an overwhelming majority of the Legislature agrees and that a bi-partisan group is co-sponsoring this truly wonderful, unifying bill.”
Supporters say the bill recognizes Osborne’s lifetime of service to the state through athletics, public office, and youth mentorship.
Osborne was born and raised in Nebraska. He began his athletic career in Hastings, where he played football, basketball, and track. From high school, he transferred to Hastings College and later went on to play in the NFL. He continued his education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in educational psychology, and a doctorate. He lead the Huskers to three national titles in his 25 seasons coaching at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Following his football career, Osborne turned to politics, representing the state’s 3rd Congressional District. He also launched the TeamMates Program, with his wife Nancy, which has impacted over 50,000 youth.
If passed, this legislation would supersede prerequisites for nomination used by the Hall of Fame Commission, but only for this one-time purpose.