25 Facts About UC Davis Football

The Early Days of UC Davis Football

UC Davis football has a rich history that dates back over a century. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied program.

1. UC Davis football began in 1915, making it one of the oldest college football programs in California.
2. The team was originally known as the "Aggies," a nod to the school's agricultural roots.
3. The first game played by UC Davis was against the University of Nevada, Reno, which ended in a 0-0 tie.
4. In the early years, the team played on a field that was little more than a cow pasture, complete with grazing cows.

Memorable Moments and Milestones

Over the years, UC Davis football has had its share of memorable moments and significant milestones.

5. In 1971, the Aggies won their first Far Western Conference title.
6. The team achieved its first undefeated season in 1982, finishing with a 12-0 record.
7. UC Davis made its first NCAA Division II playoff appearance in 1977.
8. The Aggies moved up to NCAA Division I-AA (now FCS) in 2004, marking a new era for the program.

Legendary Coaches and Players

Great coaches and players have left an indelible mark on UC Davis football.

9. Jim Sochor, the most successful coach in UC Davis history, led the team from 1970 to 1988, amassing a record of 156-41-5.
10. Ken O'Brien, a former Aggie quarterback, went on to have a successful NFL career with the New York Jets.
11. Bo Eason, another standout player, became a first-round NFL draft pick in 1984.
12. Chris Petersen, who later became a renowned college football coach, played quarterback for UC Davis in the 1980s.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions add excitement and color to UC Davis football.

13. The annual Causeway Classic against Sacramento State is one of the most anticipated games of the season.
14. The Aggies have a tradition of ringing the "Victory Bell" after each home win.
15. The team’s mascot, Gunrock the Mustang, is named after a thoroughbred horse that was a gift to the university in the 1920s.
16. The "Aggie Pack," the largest student spirit organization in the country, brings energy and enthusiasm to every game.

Stadium and Facilities

The facilities where the Aggies play and train are top-notch.

17. UC Davis plays its home games at UC Davis Health Stadium, which opened in 2007 and seats 10,743 fans.
18. The stadium features a state-of-the-art press box, luxury suites, and a video scoreboard.
19. The team trains at the Bruce Edwards Clubhouse, a facility named after a former player and coach.
20. The stadium's field is named Jim Sochor Field, in honor of the legendary coach.

Recent Successes and Future Prospects

The future looks bright for UC Davis football, with recent successes paving the way.

21. In 2018, the Aggies won their first Big Sky Conference title.
22. That same year, the team made its first appearance in the FCS playoffs, advancing to the quarterfinals.
23. Dan Hawkins, a former Aggie player and current head coach, has revitalized the program since taking over in 2017.
24. The team has consistently been ranked in the FCS Top 25 in recent years.
25. With a strong recruiting pipeline and state-of-the-art facilities, UC Davis football is poised for continued success in the coming years.

Final Whistle

UC Davis football has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. From its early days to the present, the team has shown resilience, dedication, and passion for the game. The Aggies have produced NFL talent, set impressive records, and built a strong community of fans and alumni. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or new to the UC Davis scene, there's no denying the impact this team has had on college football. The traditions, rivalries, and spirit of UC Davis football continue to inspire and unite people. As the team looks to the future, one thing is certain: the Aggies will keep pushing boundaries and striving for greatness. So, next time you catch a game, remember the legacy and pride that come with wearing the blue and gold. Go Aggies!