Middle Tennessee State University, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Middle Tennessee State University will host its annual ‘Bleed Blue to Beat WKU’ blood drive from October 27 to 29, aiming to collect blood donations for patients in need. This year’s event specifically focuses on assisting those with sickle cell disease. MTSU hopes to gather between 800 to 900 units, following last year’s successful collection of 405 pints. The event fosters a friendly competition with Western Kentucky University, enhancing both community health and school spirit. Donors will receive incentives, including T-shirts and gift cards.
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) will host its annual “Bleed Blue to Beat WKU” blood drive from October 27 to 29. The event aims to collect blood donations for patients in need and fosters friendly competition with Western Kentucky University (WKU) to see which institution can collect the most blood. The blood drive will run daily from noon to 6 p.m. at MTSU’s Campus Recreation Center, located at 1848 Blue Raider Drive.
This year’s blood drive will specifically focus on assisting patients suffering from sickle cell disease, which affects approximately 100,000 Americans, predominantly among Black or African American individuals. Gene Baker from the American Red Cross has highlighted the importance of matching blood types, particularly from donors within these communities, making the event even more critical this year.
Last year, MTSU successfully collected 405 pints of blood, outpacing WKU by 36 units. Since the inception of the rivalry-themed blood drive in 2010, the two universities have together amassed nearly 13,000 units of blood, potentially saving up to 38,000 lives. The upcoming event has the capacity to gather between 800 to 900 units of blood, which is vital for meeting various hospital demands.
Free parking for off-campus donors will be available at MT One Stop, located at 1860 Blue Raider Drive. While walk-ins are welcomed, advance online registration is recommended to streamline the donation process. Interested donors can sign up through the Blood Donor App using the sponsor code MTSU or by visiting tinyurl.com/2025DonateBlood. Donors will be subject to specific height and weight requirements that vary between males and females.
Incentives for blood donors are plentiful. Each donor will receive a commemorative T-shirt, a $10 eGift Card, free pizza, and a chance to win one of three $500 gift cards. Additionally, MTSU football tickets will be given away as prizes to selected donors, further encouraging participation.
To ensure the smooth operation of the event, volunteers are also needed. Individuals who wish to contribute can sign up at bit.ly/2025BloodBattlevolunteers. The overall goal of the blood drive is not only to bolster community health but also to enhance school spirit as both universities unite for a common cause.
FAQs
What is the date and time for the “Bleed Blue to Beat WKU” blood drive?
The event will take place from October 27-29, from noon to 6 p.m. each day.
Where is the blood drive located?
The location of the event is MTSU’s Campus Recreation Center, located at 1848 Blue Raider Drive.
What is the target focus for this year’s blood drive?
This year’s blood drive has a special focus on helping patients with sickle cell disease.
How many pints of blood did MTSU collect last year?
Last year, MTSU collected 405 pints of blood, edging out WKU by 36 units.
How many units of blood can the drive collect?
The drive can collect approximately 800 to 900 units of blood, which can address numerous hospital commitments.
What incentives are offered for donors?
Donors will receive multiple incentives, including a commemorative T-shirt, a $10 eGift Card, free pizza, and a chance to win one of three $500 gift cards. MTSU football tickets will also be given away as prizes for donors.
Will there be parking available for off-campus donors?
Yes, free parking for off-campus donors is available at MT One Stop, 1860 Blue Raider Drive.
How can donors register in advance?
Donors can download the Blood Donor App using the sponsor code MTSU or visit tinyurl.com/2025DonateBlood.
Are volunteers needed for the event?
Yes, volunteers are needed to help run the blood drive, with sign-up available at bit.ly/2025BloodBattlevolunteers.
Key Features of the Blood Drive
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date | October 27-29 |
| Time | Noon to 6 p.m. |
| Location | MTSU’s Campus Recreation Center |
| Focused Condition | Sickle cell disease |
| Pints Collected Last Year | 405 |
| Units Goal This Year | 800 to 900 |
| Incentives for Donors | Commemorative T-shirt, $10 eGift Card, Free pizza, Chance to win $500 gift cards and MTSU football tickets |
| Volunteer Sign-Up | Available online |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WGNSS Radio: Bleed Blue to Beat WKU Blood Drive Returns
- Rutherford Source: MTSU Ready to Bleed Blue to Beat WKU
- WNKY: WKU Athletics 100 Miles of Hope Blood Drive
- Go Blue Raiders: 100 Miles of Hope Fall Blood Drive
- WGNSS Radio: MTSU Bleed Blue Beat WKU Blood Drive
- Wikipedia: Blood Donation
- Google Search: Blood Donation Information
- Google Scholar: Blood Drives Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Blood Donation
- Google News: Blood Drive Competitions
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