How Freddie Falcon became the BGSU mascot

Celebrating 75 years since Freddie's debut at BGSU

Making his debut appearance on January 16, 1950, at the basketball game between Bowling Green State University and Ohio University, Freddie Falcon turns 75 this year. Here is a timeline of how Freddie Falcon became the legendary mascot of BGSU.

• 1927: Ivan "Doc" Lake, a 1923 alumnus, is working as a sports reporter for the local Sentinel Tribune when he suggests BGSU change its nickname and mascot to "The Falcons" after reading an article about falconry.
  • Seen as a fierce fighter with speed and courage, his suggestion received general approval by members of the University.
• 1950: To create school spirit at athletic events, the idea of Freddie Falcon is born from the minds of the members of the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity.
• January 16, 1950: Bob Taylor dresses as Freddie, wearing a papier-mâché falcon head, a feathered cape and a brown sweat suit outfit to the BGSU vs. Ohio University basketball game
• 1966: Mrs. Freddie Falcon (later renamed Frieda Falcon) makes her debut
• 1970-71: The women's basketball team recreates Frieda Falcon
• 1980: Frieda is reintroduced as Freddie's sister (portrayed by Sue Sheard; the first official female Frieda)

Oh, how times have changed

As one of the oldest college mascots in the country, Freddie has come a long way from the papier-mâché head, feathered cape and brown sweat suit worn during his first appearance. Today, Freddie flaunts a stylish outfit with his orange Chuck Taylor high-top shoes.

Tradition of secrecy and pride

With more than 200 students dressing up as Freddie and Frieda over the past 75 years, the tradition remains shrouded in secrecy.

• Each year, six BGSU students are selected to represent the University as the beloved Freddie and Frieda Falcon mascots.
• Students attend school spirit events at athletic, campus and community gatherings, while hiding their mascot duties from others.
• To conceal their identities, students have admitted to:
  • Lying to friends about their whereabouts
  • Keeping the secret from siblings and parents
  • Creating fake family members and life events
• Graduating seniors maintain their secret identities until the much-anticipated reveal near the end of the basketball season

Deserving of celebration

Don't miss the party of the year as BGSU celebrates Freddie Falcon's 75th birthday. Freddie's Homecoming birthday bash includes high-flying fun, bold traditions and birthday surprises for Falcons of all ages from Sept. 11-14.  

Enjoy:

• Giant birthday cakes
• Falcon Marching Band shows
• Welcome Back party
• 5K run/walk
• Falconland
• Tailgate Park and Falcon football
• And so much more!