Osgood honored by SD Police Historical Association

Friday, Jun 01, 2007
By James Bourguignon, Chargers.com

Chargers wide receiver Kassim Osgood was honored for his commitment to the community during the Fourth-Annual Legends Behind The Badge Gala and Awards Ceremony, benefiting the San Diego Police Historical Association.  The event was held at the U.S. Grant Hotel in Downtown San Diego as many of San Diego’s finest police officers and civilians gathered to be honored for their exceptional community, historical and law enforcement achievements.

Osgood was awarded the Jose A. Cota Award for Merit, which is given to members of the community who are not members of the San Diego Police Department but have demonstrated outstanding commitment to San Diego city law enforcement as well as leadership in the community.

Osgood was honored because of his extraordinary work in the community and because he uses his high profile position to benefit those less fortunate in our community. Serving people comes naturally for the 2007 Pro Bowler, who at one time thought about pursuing a career in law enforcement. 

“From day one I was destined to be in a helmet or a badge,” Osgood said.  “I have a deep sense of appreciation and gratitude for those who serve and protect us.”

Whether it be in a police uniform or through the platform created by his status as a Charger, Osgood simply wants to help people. After receiving the award, Osgood informed the audience that he would be donating $5,000 dollars to the San Diego Police Historical Society. 

The Founder of “Team K.O.,” Osgood spends his free in the community motivating and educating children on fitness, nutrition, making good decisions, self discipline and helping others.  Shortly after joining the Chargers, Osgood thought about the platform being an NFL player provided.  Although he never met a professional athlete when he was younger, he realized the impact such a meeting would have had.  So, that’s exactly what Osgood has been doing.  Among his many projects, last season Osgood sponsored 400 children to attend Chargers home games so they could experience the excitement and thrill of watching an NFL game in person for the first time. 

Osgood and his foundation are also partners with AFE, Athletes for Education, whose objective is to build up self-esteem and self confidence in our youth in an effort to encourage them to dream, set goals and become a successful positive influential part of the Community of San Diego.  On Monday May 14, 2007 Team K.O. and AFE partnered up again at the Del Mar Country Club to put on the 2nd Annual Kassim Osgood Celebrity Golf Tournament benefiting Team K.O.’s mentoring and scholarship program.