A History of Football at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls
The University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) Falcons football program boasts a history dating back over a century. As the intercollegiate American football team representing UWRF, the Falcons compete at the NCAA Division III level within the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC). Their story is one of enduring tradition, marked by periods of great success and dedicated individuals who have shaped the program.
Early Years and Program Foundations
The Falcons first took to the gridiron in 1895, establishing a tradition that has spanned 130 years. Over this extensive period, the team has compiled an all-time record of 526-419-48 (.554), demonstrating a consistent presence in collegiate football. The current athletic director, Crystal Lanning, oversees the athletic programs, while head coach Matt Walker leads the football team.
The Mike Farley Era: A Golden Age
The Falcons experienced a period of significant achievement under the leadership of Coach Mike Farley (1970-1988). During his tenure, Farley guided the team to an impressive 117-71-3 record, securing eight conference championships. His impact on the program is undeniable, establishing a standard of excellence that remains a benchmark for UWRF football.
In 1979, Farley led the Falcons to the NAIA National Playoffs, marking the first time the team had reached the national level. This achievement underscored Farley's coaching prowess and the dedication of his players. His contributions were recognized with several accolades, including WIAC Coach of the Year in 1986. He was also named the American Football Coaches Association Region 6 Coach of the Year in both 1979 and 1986, and the NAIA District 14 Coach of the Year in 1975, 1979, and 1985. Under Farley's guidance, 91 players earned All-WIAC honors, with three Falcons being named WIAC Player of the Year.
John O'Grady: A Quarter Century of Leadership
John O'Grady holds the distinction of being the longest-tenured coach in UWRF football history, with 22 seasons at the helm. Before his coaching career, O'Grady was a linebacker for the Falcons from 1972 to 1975, providing him with a unique understanding of the program's traditions and values. Prior to returning to his alma mater, O'Grady gained coaching experience at Kent State University, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Miami University.
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O'Grady led the Falcons to a conference championship in 1998 and secured two NCAA Playoff appearances in 1995 and 1996. His career record stands at 105-112-3, reflecting his commitment to the program and his players.
Matt Walker Era
Matt Walker is the current head coach. Previously, Walker held the head football coach position at DePauw University (2006-09) where he had a 22-8 overall record. His teams finished 13-7 in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference and placed second in the final conference standings in 2007 and 2008. From 2000 to 2005 Walker was an assistant coach with DePauw and coached running backs and wide receivers. In 2010, he was an assistant coach at Butler University. Walker was a two-sport athlete (baseball and football) at DePauw (1999). In 2009 the Falcons finished the season at 3-7 (1-6 in WIAC). In 2011, the Falcons finished the season at 1-9 (1-6 in WIAC).
Ramer Field: Home of the Falcons
The Falcons play their home games at Ramer Field, a venue that has witnessed countless memorable moments in the program's history. The stadium provides a home-field advantage for the team and a gathering place for fans and the River Falls community.
Conference Affiliation and Competition
As a member of the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC), the Falcons compete against other top football programs in the region. The WIAC is known for its strong tradition of football excellence, providing a challenging and competitive environment for UWRF.
National Recognition
Starting in 1999 the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) began publishing rankings for Division III football. In 2003, D3football.com started publishing its own rankings for Division III football. Since the inception of both polls, Wisconsin-River Falls has been ranked one time in the AFCA Coaches Poll and two times in the D3football.com poll to end the season. From 1984 to 2000 the Hubert H.
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