NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Oct. 15, 2018) — The Western Kentucky University (WKU) Hilltoppers and the Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) Blue Raiders are teaming up with the American Red Cross to clash for a cause – to help save lives and earn top bragging rights in the Eighth Annual WKU vs. MTSU Blood Battle Oct. 29 through 31 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at each campus.
All presenting donors will receive a commemorative WKU vs. MTSU Blood Battle T-shirt, while supplies last.
Last year, MTSU fans took home the traveling trophy and major bragging rights by winning the blood battle. This year, it is anyone’s game. During the three-day battle, the archrivals will each host a blood drive to see which university’s supporters can bring in the most blood donations. The university with the most presenting donors will win and be presented with the blood battle trophy at the WKU vs. MTSU football game Friday, Nov. 2 at MTSU.
“WKU and MTSU always put together incredible game plans to inspire their fans to come out of the stands and into the game of helping ensure hospital patients have the blood products they need,” said Mario Sedlock, director of donor recruitment for the Red Cross Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region. “We’re grateful for their continuous commitment and compassion. Regardless of the winner, both schools know the ultimate victory will be the innumerable lives impacted by the generous blood donations given in their honor.”
Donors of all blood types are needed to help ensure a sufficient supply for patients this fall, especially after Hurricane Florence and Michael forced the cancellation of more than 7,400 blood and platelet donations in less than a month. As a thank-you, those who come to donate blood in October will automatically be entered to win one of five $500 gift cards redeemable at hundreds of merchants. Learn more at RedCrossBlood.org/GoForGoal.
Eighth Annual WKU vs. MTSU Blood Battle
WKU
Monday, Oct. 29, Tuesday, Oct. 30 and Wednesday, Oct. 31
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Preston Health and Activity Center basketball-tennis courts
1906 College Heights Blvd.
Bowling Green, KY. 42101
To schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code: WKUvsMTSU or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Walk-ins welcome
MTSU
Monday, Oct. 29, Tuesday, Oct. 30 and Wednesday, Oct. 31
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Rec Center gym
1301 Main St.
Murfreesboro, TN. 37132
To schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code: MTSU or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Walk-ins welcome
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, from a computer or mobile device. To get started and learn more, visit RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions on the site.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.