Cochrane Stadium, home to BGSU’s soccer and lacrosse teams, has been slated for renovations, according to BGSU Athletics.
The renovations will focus on creating a new plaza and entrance for the stadium, while also working on upgrades to the field. BGSU Athletics said the project is set to improve the student-athlete experience while celebrating the history and tradition of Falcon soccer and lacrosse.
“Both our men’s and women’s soccer programs as well as our historic lacrosse program have worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality to further enhance our game day experience,” said Vice President of Athletics Strategy and Director of Athletics Derek van der Merwe. “Telling the history of these programs has been at the forefront of this project and we’re excited to share this with our Bowling Green community.”
BGSU began collecting funds for the renovation project through a quiet phase of the campaign and has already raised more than $777,000, getting the university close to its funding goal of $1 million. A large portion of that $777,000 was donated by Mike and Jan Wilcox, who provided a leadership gift of $500,000 for the project.
The newly named Cochrane Plaza is designed to honor the history of the soccer and lacrosse programs at BGSU. It will feature 10 pillars, each with different plaques recognizing the success of championship teams, All-Americans and other alumni accomplishments throughout the history of BGSU soccer and lacrosse.
“This is so much more than a plaza,” said men’s soccer head coach Eric Nichols. “It’s a lasting tribute to Mickey Cochrane, the incredible impact he’s had on so many lives, including my own, and to everyone who has competed on this field and helped build its legacy.”
The playing surface will also be getting a slight touch-up through this project. The project will add improvements to the field drainage and irrigation systems to help the turf stay consistent along the entire playing surface. These additions will help keep the players safe while increasing the strength and lifespan of the grass.
“Every improvement we make strengthens the experience for our student-athletes, enhances our ability to recruit exceptional young women, and reinforces the momentum of our program,” said women’s soccer head coach Chris Fox. “At the same time, this project honors the generations of Falcons who built our tradition. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has made this vision possible as we continue moving Bowling Green soccer forward.”
Construction on Cochrane Plaza will continue throughout the summer. During that time, Bowling Green Athletics will shift focus to fundraising for the field renovation.
BGSU Athletics said a dedication event will be held this fall. Details will be shared soon.