Students donating for the win in OU-Miami blood battle

Ohio University is 20 pints ahead of Miami University after the first round of the OU-Miami blood battle, a competition designed by the Red Cross to challenge each school to donate more than its rival.

OU is leading Miami 105 pints to 85 after the first of two drives. Both schools must conduct two blood drives, each with a goal of 100 donations. OU's first drive was held at Ping Recreation Center on Jan. 26.

OU's second drive will be held next Monday at Baker University Center from noon to 7 p.m.

The winner will be announced at the OU-Miami men's basketball game on Feb. 26 in Athens. The student body president of the losing school will sing the alma mater or fight song of the winning school.

Recent severe winter storms caused the cancellation of more than 2,000 donations across Ohio. Officials at the Red Cross said in a news release that they hope the donations from the battle will help make up for the losses.

Several student organizations are involved with the blood battle. Groups such as Student Senate, the O-Zone, the College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Department of Athletics and the OU Red Cross have been involved with planning and sponsoring OU's drives.

Everyone's just extremely excited and proud

said OU Red Cross president Anna Schottenstein.

Schottenstein attributes the first drive's success to the dedication of the students involved. Although OU is currently beating Miami, she warned that OU's rival could still pull off a win.

Even though we're ahead by 20 (pints) it's still not enough. We really need the support of students Schottenstein said, adding that she is confident that OU can still win.

Donations from OU students make up a large portion of those collected in Athens County. Student donations made up 32.4 percent of all donations in Athens County in 2006. This percentage rose to 37.6 percent in 2008.

Students who donate at OU's second blood drive will receive a free $5 coupon for Buffalo Wild Wings.

Those interested in donating can schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE. No advance notice is needed to make a donation.