This Homecoming weekend, Sept. 11-14, Bowling Green State University (BGSU) celebrates Freddie Falcon’s 75th birthday bash.
Until 1927, BGSU was a teaching college called Bowling Green Normal University. Students were dubbed “The Normals.” However, a sports reporter for the Sentinel Tribune newspaper and 1923 BG graduate, Ivan Lake, was inspired by an article about falconry. His suggestion of a new nickname, “The Falcons,” caught on quickly.
In 1950, members of the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity created a way to boost school spirit even more. Moving beyond a mere nickname, Freddie Falcon was born. He debuted in a papier-mâché head and feathered cape. From there, his impact only grew.
Freida joined the cause in 1966 as Mrs. Freddie Falcon, then was re-introduced in 1980 as Freddie’s sister.
Both Falcons represent the fierceness and courage of BGSU students, serving as a keystone for school spirit.
Spirit Program Coordinator and Cheerleading Coach, Tyler Bill, offered his definition of school spirit as “what connects students, alumni, faculty and fans to something bigger than themselves.”
“The falcon represents strength, focus and resilience, qualities that resonate with the BGSU community,” he said. “Freddie and Frieda bring the energy, fun and personality of the falcon to life…they serve as ambassadors who represent the pride and passion of the Falcon family.”
This pride is showcased during Homecoming weekend, when BGSU ushers alumni back to campus in style.
On Friday, outside University Hall, the Welcome Back Party launches the weekend. A performance by BGSU’s Falcon Marching Band will be held at the Schmeltz Family Fountain at 6 p.m. BGSU also offers a circus performance, silent disco, an outdoor movie and free stargazing at the observatory throughout the evening.
Saturday starts with the David Wottle Homecoming 5K race and Donuts with the Dean. Falconland introduces exciting, hands-on fun for the family, including inflatable bouncy houses, face painting, caricatures, BGSU Dining cooking demos, campus tours and a live falcon experience.
Game Day really begins with the Homecoming Tailgate at the Doyt Stadium at 5 p.m. Our Falcons take on the Liberty Flames. Say goodnight with fireworks over the stadium.
Countless reunions, including BGSU Cheerleading, the Black Alumni Council, the President’s Leadership Academy and study abroad programs, occur throughout the weekend.
On Sunday, catch Freddie and Frieda at The Oaks from 9 to 11 a.m. for Brunch with the Birds.
But, Bill advises students to keep their eyes peeled all Homecoming.
“You can expect to see the pair [Freddie and Freida] at the events on Friday located on the Quad, Falcon-Land, tailgating events, the football game and around various alumni and student gatherings throughout the weekend.”
To keep the schedule straight, BGSU is offering the all-access Homecoming Passport. It is a free, mobile tool that offers information about events, maps, rewards and downtown deals with updates delivered by text message and email. No app download is required.
Most importantly, when you spot Freddie Falcon around campus, be sure to wish him a happy birthday.
