Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Sept. 16, 2025) — For 22 years, Utah State University and Weber State University have channeled their school spirit into saving lives through the annual Blood Battle. This year’s friendly blood drive competition collected a combined 520 units of blood for the American Red Cross of Utah.
This year, USU once again led the charge, collecting 342 units of blood, with the Aggies taking the trophy for the 7th year in a row. Weber State made a strong showing, collecting 178 units of blood as the competition concluded on Friday, Sept. 12. Together, the two schools added to the more than 20,000 units of blood collected since the Blood Battle started in 2003, providing critical support to patients in need across Utah and beyond.
“The Blood Battle is about more than competition, it’s about community, compassion and saving lives,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “This year, students and staff from both institutions and the community showed tremendous commitment. We’re deeply grateful to all who participated and helped ensure hospitals have the blood they need.”
A Lifesaving Tradition
The Blood Battle came at a critical time, as blood supplies often decline after Labor Day as families shift their focus to back-to-school routines and end-of-summer activities. Since its inception, the Blood Battle has become a cornerstone of service for both universities, inspiring thousands of students, faculty and community members to donate blood and make a difference.
Make a Donation Appointment Today
The Red Cross plays a vital role in maintaining the nation’s blood supply, collecting approximately 40% of all donated blood. To meet the needs of patients at over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers, the Red Cross must collect 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations daily. In Utah, nearly 45 hospitals rely on the Red Cross to provide blood for accident victims, cancer patients, mothers experiencing complications during childbirth and others facing medical emergencies.
Donating is easy. Appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCross.org/GiveBlood or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Urgent Need for Type O and B Negative Blood
While all blood types are needed, the Red Cross is urging those with Type O and Type B negative blood to donate. Type O positive is the most transfused blood type, compatible with 85% of the population. Type O negative is the universal blood type used in emergencies. Type B negative is one of the rarest blood types, found in less than 2% of the population. Patients with B negative blood can only receive transfusions from B negative or O negative donors.
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.
