Ohio State and University of Michigan face off in 28^th Annual Blood Battle

Competition between schools generates thousands of blood donations

Students and fans of Ohio State University and the University of Michigan are gearing up for the two schools’ annual Blood Battle. The archrivals will partner with the American Red Cross to see which university’s supporters can bring in the most blood donations. Blood Battle has occurred every year since 1981.

“Michigan won the 2008 Blood Battle, and hopes to repeat the victory this year,” said Sharyn Whitman, CEO for the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services of the American Red Cross. “Ohio State had taken home the traveling trophy for five consecutive years from 2003 to 2007, and is eager to regain it.”

Blood Battle drives generate thousands of blood donations for the American Red Cross every year.

“The competition really motivates fans to donate blood at a key time,” Whitman said. “It provides an important boost for the blood supply as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. During the busy holiday season it’s important not to forget the constant need for volunteer blood donors.”

In addition to the chance to support their favorite team, those who come to donate at select blood drives in the region from Sept. 26 through Nov. 10 will be entered into a regional drawing to receive two tickets to the Ohio State vs. Michigan game on Nov. 21. 

• Monday, Sept. 21, from 12 noon until 6 p.m. at American Legion, located at 601 North SR 118 in Coldwater.
• Thursday, Sept. 24, from 12 noon until 6 p.m. at Rockford United Methodist Church, located at 202 S. Franklin St. in Rockford.
• Monday, Oct. 12, from 12 noon until 6 p.m. at Knights of St. John, located at 8608 SR 119 in Maria Stein. All presenting donors will be entered into a regional drawing to receive two tickets to the OSU vs. MI game on Nov. 21.

For additional dates and locations to donate blood, call 1-800-GIVE LIFE.

Results of this year’s Blood Battle will be announced at the stadium during the Nov. 21 game in Ann Arbor, Mich.

“Of course, the real winners of Blood Battle are always the patients who rely on potentially lifesaving blood transfusions to help them through injury and illness,” Whitman said.

How to Donate Blood

Individuals who are at least 17 years old (16 with parental permission in Indiana), meet height and weight requirements (at least 110 pounds based on height) and are in general good health may be eligible to donate blood. Red Cross donor card or positive ID required. Call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or log on IndianaOhioRedCross.org for more information.

About the American Red Cross

The Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region serves northern and central Indiana and northwestern Ohio, and needs to collect about 500 units of blood a day to meet patient need in more than 60 hospitals.  In addition to providing blood to our community, the American Red Cross also provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.