“The team comes first.”
Description
Former UW-River Falls Head Football Coach Mike Farley’s players heard him say “the team comes first” numerous times. It is one key aspect of why his legacy is so enduring. Thanks to many recent university additions, a new opportunity to honor Coach Farley – and those who played for him – has arisen. We are asking former players, coaches, fans and friends to help support this tribute to Coach Farley. The Farley Family fully supports this initiative.
In many conversations with former players, coaches and people associated with UW-River Falls football, many ideas were discussed and two goals became obvious. We hope to:
1) Fund a visible recognition for Coach Farley at Smith Stadium at Ramer Field
2) Provide funding for an assistant coaching position in Coach Farley’s name
Coach Farley Image Banner
There will be a large, permanent image banner of Coach Farley visible as you enter the stadium. The banner will serve as a reminder to players and fans alike to take pride in the accomplishments of the program and as a reminder of what’s achievable. Since the cost for replacing the existing stadium windscreens is fairly significant, the UWRF Athletic Department will look to incorporate this tribute to Coach Farley when the time comes to replace the existing windscreens. In addition, there will be a picture of Coach Farley (with a list of his many accomplishments) displayed as spectators enter the stadium.
Mike Farley Legacy Coaching Fund
An account has been established for the Mike Farley Legacy Coaching Fund. Our initial goal is to fund a $17,000 per year assistant coaching position. As you know, Coach Farley was interested in projects that would truly benefit the football program.
A Great Start
As of publication (June 1, 2018), 13 individual donors have each committed $1,000 per year ($13,000) for three consecutive years ($39,000 total). These commitments have provided a great start for gaining the necessary momentum to bring this initiative to fruition for the upcoming 2018-2019 season and academic year. We understand that not everyone is in a position to donate $1000 a year, but any donation committed for three years is truly valued. You may wish to partner with a fellow Falcon to make a combined donation annually for three years. We are asking for three-year commitments in an effort to ensure that the Farley Legacy Coaching position is sustainable for years to come. In year two, we will assess the donor program and seek advice from donors to determine the program’s status going forward beyond the three-year commitment.
We ask that this commitment not replace other contributions that you may be making to the University. We do not want to have an adverse effect on other university fundraising and specifically other fundraising for the football program — including the Falcon 365 program, the Falcon Football Golf Outing, R-Club Booster Club or Locker Campaign.
Alert others
In addition to your donations, your ability to share the opportunity with other potential donors, will help bring this initiative to life. Coach Farley was not only a great football coach, but a fine mentor as well. During his time spent at UW-River Falls, his tutelage is some of the most cherished memories football alumni and friends of the program have. Having the opportunity to both honor his commitment to UW-River Falls football and contribute to new successes in the program is a rather unique combination. We trust that you’ll find your own way to make a contribution to the team and to Coach Farley.
Donation Details
All donations will be directed through the UWRF Foundation. Donations are tax deductible and can be made two ways:
1.Mail your donation check directly to the UWRF Foundation office at 310 South Hall, 410 S. 3rd St., River Falls, WI 54022
2.Online donation at:
www.uwrf.edu/give. Designate your gift to the
Mike Farley Legacy Fund.
Thank you for your consideration and please feel free to contact us with questions or to make a financial commitment.
Daryl Herrick:
falcon4460@hotmail.com or 262-894-4360
John O’Grady:
ogradyrf51@gmail.comor 715-441-1740
Crystal Lanning:
crystal.lanning@uwrf.edu or 715-425-3246
Thank you and go Falcons!
Note: The below image is not representative of the actual banner but is indicative of the size and scope of the Coach Farley banner that would be placed at the stadium.
