BGSU Decades Celebration: Falcons in 2015
Celebrating the Spirit of 2015 as Part of the 2025 BGSU Decades Celebration
6/17/2025
As part of Bowling Green State University’s Decades Celebration, we proudly invite all Falcons to relive the unforgettable moments that defined the different eras. We start with the 2015 era. Whether you were a student, professor, staff member, Townie, or a devoted fan cheering on BGSU Athletics, this celebration honors your place in Falcon history. In the lead-up to Homecoming 2025, BGSUFalcons.com will spotlight the stories and accomplishments that shaped each anniversary year—starting with 2015, a time marked by remarkable athletic achievements and the unwavering spirit of the Orange and Brown.
As Falcons flock back to Bowling Green for Homecoming 2025, we proudly spotlight one of the most electric and memorable years in BGSU Athletics history—2015. It was a year that embodied excellence, heart, and the rallying cry that continues to echo across campus and beyond: “Who’s Got it Better Than Us!” – Jackie and Jack Harbaugh
Football Reigns in the MAC
The pinnacle moment came on December 4, 2015, when BGSU Football left no doubt at Ford Field, claiming the Mid-American Conference Championship with a 34-14 rout over Northern Illinois. Travis Greene rushed for a career-high 183 yards and two scores, Matt Johnson added two touchdown passes, and the Falcon defense forced five turnovers. It marked BGSU’s second MAC title in three seasons and the 12th in program history—a statement of dominance and a celebration for the ages.
Hoops History & Richaun Holmes' Rise
Men’s Basketball soared behind Richaun Holmes, who was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers and etched his name in program lore. Holmes finished his career as BGSU’s all-time leader in blocked shots and helped guide the Falcons to their first postseason victory since 1975 with a dramatic win in the CIT. He was named MAC Defensive Player of the Year and a first-team All-MAC selection—his game-changing presence felt across the nation.
Hockey Hits New Heights
Falcon Hockey brought fans to their feet, literally and figuratively. On Jan. 3, 2015, BGSU took the ice outdoors for the first time in school history, skating to a thrilling 2-2 tie against Robert Morris at Fifth Third Field in Toledo. Two weeks later, they reached No. 6 in the USCHO national poll—their highest ranking ever. BG finished third in the WCHA and returned to the Final Five after sweeping Northern Michigan, continuing a run of postseason consistency.
Baseball's Stellar Season
The 2015 Baseball team produced the last two MLB Draft picks before 2024—Trey Keegan (Atlanta Braves) and Brian Bien (Kansas City Royals). Bien broke the program’s career assists record with 585, while Brandon Howard set a single-season steals record and led the nation with 42 swipes. Zac Carey earned MAC Freshman Pitcher of the Year and joined Keegan and Howard in claiming All-MAC honors.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - Brooke Pleger
I definitely had the mindset of wanting to win a national championship. I think it was something that over the previous years seemed like the goal became more achievable. It was my last year, so I just really wanted to go out with a bang.Brooke Pleger
Falcons Fly Across Every Sport
- Brooke Pleger was once again unmatched in the hammer throw, earning All-American honors for the third time and setting the school record at 69.72m, while winning her third straight MAC title.
- Rachel Walny led the women’s cross country team to its best MAC and regional finishes since 1998 and was named MAC Freshman of the Year.
- Pat Flynn and Joe Sullivan made program history in men’s soccer by becoming the first Falcon duo to earn Academic All-America honors in the same season.
- Alyssa Nocella posted the second-best all-around score in program history at NCAA Regionals, nearly qualifying for Nationals, while Lauren Feely took home the MAC title on vault.
- In women's tennis, Paula Comella kicked off a standout career that would see her named MAC Freshman of the Year in the spring.
- Volleyball’s Nicole Slimko dominated the net, setting a program Rally Scoring Era record with 10 solo blocks in a single match.
- Jose Narro rewrote the golf record book with the lowest 54-hole score in school history at the Marshall Invitational.
From the turf at Doyt Perry Stadium to the ice rinks, courts, and tracks, 2015 showcased the very best of Falcon pride, perseverance, and performance. This Homecoming, as we gather for the Decades Party on Sept. 12 and walk Decades Drive on Sept. 13, we honor those who wore the Orange and Brown with pride and made 2015 one for the record books.
So, we ask again, as Jackie and Jack Harbaugh did—Who’s Got it Better Than Us?
Nobody.
