Player Development

The heart of our program

As members of The Network know first hand, player-development has arguably the most important mission inside Oregon’s football program.  A dedicated resource that works to ensure our players are setting themselves up for success on and off the field, the player-development staff’s sole focus is to build character, accountability, discipline, leadership and life skills.

The Team

Osman Kamara – Director of Player Development

Osman Kamara brings a determined and inspirational approach to Oregon Football. Under his leadership, our player-development program has expanded in scope and impact, increasing the skills of our players and opening the door to what’s possible.

A former football player at West Virginia, Osman earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management and an MBA from that university. Prior to joining the Ducks in 2023, he served as Associate Director of Student Athlete enhancement at his alma mater.

"These young men are investing in our program as well as in themselves to obtain a future of high achievement. We work to develop both the man and the athlete, preparing them for life and a professional career."

Karl Holmes – Director of Player Engagement

Director of player engagement, Karl Holmes, understands the needs and challenges of student-athletes from all sides. Prior to joining the team at Oregon, Karl was a counselor and teacher with the Pasadena Unified School District where he also played high school football.  

A student-athlete at Grand Valley State University, he completed a bachelor’s in sports management before earning his MBA from Grand Canyon University. In his current role, Karl brings an insight that guides his work stating, “They have to feel you’re a part of them and they’re a part of you.”

The Programs

Player-development projects generate more than 1,000 hours of community service per year.

Duck Football partnered with the Eugene Police to help on an anti-graffiti campaign.

Duck athletes paid a visit to nearby Monroe Elementary to talk about how to be productive members of the community.

The department is dedicated to celebrating individual achievements and the diversity that makes us strong.

If you’re an Oregon student-athlete, we’re here for you!

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