When asked about softball star Kelly Maxwell's decision to transfer from Oklahoma State to cross-state rival Oklahoma earlier this month, the pitcher's former coach didn't mince words.
"My only disappointment for Kelly is that she went to [Oklahoma], because now she's lost everything here that she's ever done," said Oklahoma State head coach Kenny Gajewski. "And as long as I'm here, it'll be hard for her to come back here. That's just the way it is."
The response came from Gajewski at a recent school event after he was asked by OSU's school newspaper how he felt about Maxwell — a two time All-American and 2022 Big 12 Co-Pitcher of the Year who spent four seasons pitching at Oklahoma State — becoming a Sooner.
Moments later, after claiming that he's now at peace with Maxwell's decision, Gajewski continued.
"I didn't feel [at peace with Maxwell's decision] at first. I'll just be very honest. I was upset like most of you guys were upset," Gajewski said. "But if you don't want to be here, go away. I don't want you here if you don't want to be here and wear this logo and represent this school."
However, Gajewski has no right to be upset with Maxwell either. Short of winning a national championship, Maxwell accomplished everything she could at Oklahoma State. She brought the school tons of success and excitement, and she will go down as one of the best pitchers in OSU Cowgirl history. In fact — contrary to Gajewski's statement — Maxwell certainly didn't lose everything from her time at Oklahoma State, considering the many great memories she surely made throughout her four years. In addition, her name sits atop many OSU records, which aren't erased just because Maxwell transferred.
Besides, it's Maxwell's life. She doesn't owe any of us — Gajewski included — any explanation for transferring.
Maxwell hasn't responded publicly to her former coach's words. One assumes she'll make her response on the mound next season, whenever her Sooners face off against the Cowgirls.
