Bowling Green State University Athletics
Photo by: Kate Laney, BGSU Athletics
BGSU Dedicates Cochrane Plaza, Unveils Mickey Cochrane Statue
October 10, 2026 | General, Men's Soccer, Women's Soccer
BGSU Athletics Holds Ribbon Cutting For Cochrane Plaza Upgrades
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - Bowling Green State University Athletics celebrated the dedication and ribbon cutting of Cochrane Plaza Saturday morning (Oct. 10). The event follows the Cochrane Stadium Renovation Project that has included the installation of a new entrance at Cochrane Stadium as well as a statue honoring Mickey Cochrane, the namesake of the venue. Â
Â
The project was made possible by the generosity of numerous individuals who donated to the project, including a leadership gift of $500,000 from Mike and Jan Wilcox. A former BGSU lacrosse student-athlete and three-time All-American, Mike Wilcox played under Coach Mickey Cochrane, bringing a personal connection to the project and its celebration of Coach Cochrane's legacy.Â
Â
"This project is a historic step in the history of Cochrane Stadium," said Vice President of Athletics Strategy Derek van der Merwe. "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. 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."Â Â
The dedication celebrated the completion of the plaza, which serves as a welcoming destination for alumni, fans and supporters while celebrating the legacy of Mickey Cochrane and the history of BGSU Soccer and Lacrosse. Part of the new enhancements include ten brick pillars that honor and remember the history of BGSU soccer and lacrosse. Completing the plaza is a statue of Mickey Cochrane, a permanent tribute to Coach Cochrane and his lasting impact on BGSU athletics. Â
Â
The celebration welcomed back countless Falcons to Cochrane Stadium. Those in attendance included former soccer and lacrosse student-athletes, coaches and supporters to honor the legacy of BGSU Athletics and Mickey Cochrane. Â
Â
The Cochrane Stadium Renovation Project is currently moving to the next phase. The next phase's improvements will include enhanced field drainage and irrigation uniformity to reduce inconsistencies in turf conditions and create a more level and smooth playing surface. The improvements will increase player safety and promote a healthier turf and root growth. These upgrades will increase the durability and lifespan of the natural grass surface, creating a championship-caliber playing field to serve both soccer programs.
Saturday, October 10
Saturday, October 10
Saturday, October 10
Saturday, October 10