25 Facts About UW-River Falls Football

The Early Years

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UW-River Falls) football team has a rich history that dates back several decades. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied program.

1. The UW-River Falls football team was established in 1894, making it one of the oldest college football programs in Wisconsin.

2. In the early years, the team played against local high schools and other small colleges, gradually building its reputation.

3. The Falcons' first recorded victory came in 1895, a year after the program's inception.

Memorable Seasons

Throughout its history, UW-River Falls football has had several standout seasons that have left a lasting impact on the program.

4. The 1984 season was particularly memorable, as the Falcons finished with a 9-2 record and won the Wisconsin State University Conference (WSUC) championship.

5. In 1996, the team achieved another milestone by making it to the NCAA Division III playoffs for the first time.

6. The Falcons had an impressive run in the late 1990s, with multiple winning seasons and playoff appearances.

Coaching Legends

Coaches play a crucial role in shaping a football program. UW-River Falls has been fortunate to have some legendary figures at the helm.

7. Mike Farley, who coached the team from 1970 to 1988, is one of the most successful coaches in the program's history. He led the Falcons to several conference championships and playoff appearances.

8. John O'Grady, another notable coach, took over in 1989 and continued the program's success, guiding the team to multiple winning seasons and playoff berths.

9. Matt Walker, the current head coach, has been with the program since 2011 and is working to build on the team's storied legacy.

Record-Breaking Players

Individual players have also made their mark on UW-River Falls football, setting records and earning accolades.

10. Running back Mike Turba set the school record for most rushing yards in a single season with 1,517 yards in 1995.

11. Quarterback Ben Beckman holds the record for most career passing yards, with over 7,000 yards during his time with the Falcons from 2006 to 2009.

12. Wide receiver Chris Olson set the school record for most career receiving yards, amassing over 3,000 yards from 1993 to 1996.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions add excitement and a sense of community to college football. UW-River Falls has its fair share of both.

13. The annual "Battle for the Chalice" against UW-Stout is one of the most anticipated games of the season. The winning team takes home the coveted Chalice trophy.

14. Homecoming games are a cherished tradition, drawing alumni and fans back to campus to support the Falcons.

15. The team’s fight song, "Falcons Forever," is a rallying cry for players and fans alike, creating a sense of unity and school pride.

Facilities and Upgrades

Having top-notch facilities is essential for any successful football program. UW-River Falls has made significant investments in this area.

16. Ramer Field, the home of the Falcons, underwent a major renovation in 2008, including the installation of a new artificial turf surface.

17. The David Smith Stadium, part of the Ramer Field complex, provides state-of-the-art amenities for players and fans.

18. The Falcon Center, opened in 2017, offers modern training and conditioning facilities, helping athletes perform at their best.

Community Involvement

UW-River Falls football is not just about the game; it’s also about giving back to the community.

19. The team regularly participates in community service projects, such as volunteering at local schools and food banks.

20. Players and coaches often visit local youth football programs to offer coaching and mentorship.

21. The Falcons host an annual youth football camp, providing young athletes with the opportunity to learn from college players and coaches.

Academic Excellence

Balancing athletics and academics is a priority for UW-River Falls football players.

22. The team consistently boasts a high graduation rate, with many players excelling in their academic pursuits.

23. Several Falcons have earned Academic All-American honors, recognizing their achievements both on the field and in the classroom.

24. The program emphasizes the importance of academic support, offering tutoring and other resources to help players succeed.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the future of UW-River Falls football looks promising.

25. With a strong foundation, dedicated coaching staff, and talented players, the Falcons are poised to continue their tradition of excellence and make new history in the coming years.

The Final Whistle

UW-River Falls football has a rich history filled with memorable moments, dedicated players, and passionate fans. From its humble beginnings to its current status, the team has shown resilience and determination. The Falcons have produced standout athletes, some of whom have gone on to achieve great success beyond college football. The community's support has been unwavering, making every game day a special event. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the team, there's always something exciting happening on and off the field. Keep an eye on the Falcons as they continue to soar to new heights. Their story is far from over, and the best is yet to come. So, next time you're in River Falls, catch a game and be part of the legacy. Football at UW-River Falls isn't just a sport; it's a tradition that brings people together.