CHULA VISTA (August 7, 2025) — On Sunday, August 10, family and friends are hosting their sixth memorial blood drive to honor the life of South Bay native Dante Giancarlo Longo, a former California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) soccer player and recipient of the CSUSM Most Inspirational Player and Best Newcomer awards (2017-2018). The American Red Cross blood drive will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Springhill Suites by Marriott Chula Vista/Eastlake (870 District Place, Chula Vista).

Dante, who tragically passed away in 2022 at just 24 years old, was known not only for his athletic talent and infectious field presence but also for his unmatched strength, resilience, and determination. After surviving a devastating car accident and coma in 2018, Dante made a miraculous return to the field. This led to the creation of the “Dante Longo Iron Cougar Award,” now presented annually to the toughest player on the CSUSM men’s soccer team.

Dante created Longo Strong Fitness in the early days of his recovery which has since been reestablished in his memory as the Longo Strong Foundation, a non-profit created to promote physical fitness and activity, mental resilience, and community wellness for free.

In Memory of Dante Longo Blood Drive

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Springhill Suites by Marriott Chula Vista/Eastlake

870 District Place, Chula Vista

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

“Dante’s story reminds us of what it means to fight, to overcome, and to give back,” said Kimberly, Dante's mother. “This blood drive is a way for our community to carry forward his legacy in the most meaningful way.”

As a thank-you, those who come to give Aug. 1-28 will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. Plus, the Red Cross will perform free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, on successful donations (one test result per 12-month period). Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Test for more information.

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media. 

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