When the University of Kentucky Wildcats come to the O’Connell Center, they will not only be competing in basketball but also in a blood drive.
LifeSouth Community Blood Centers of Gainesville will be kicking off its semiannual “What Colors Do You Bleed?” blood drive Monday.
The competition is a tradition between the schools to see which can collect the most donations for their local blood banks in a week.
The winner will be announced following the basketball game Feb. 5.
Kentucky has won the contest the past two years.
According to Clay Gibbons, the community development coordinator for LifeSouth, this event is the organization’s largest of the year.
After a holiday season shortage, these extra donations will help fulfill an emergency need.
LifeSouth anticipates more participation this year because a Champions Trophy will be awarded for the first time. All student organizations can compete in different divisions for this award.
“We’re hoping people will bring out their friends, not just to beat Kentucky but help their organization win the trophy,” said Claire Lovell, a student intern for LifeSouth.
Remy Kimes, a Santa Fe College student, plans to participate in the drive because he knows his O-negative blood is desperately needed, he said.
“For me, donating could potentially save a life,” he said. “That’s all the motivation I need to go out and give blood.”
Bloodmobiles will be at the Hub, Gator Corner Dining Center, Broward Dining Center and on Turlington Plaza between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Donations will also be accepted at LifeSouth donor centers and Gainesville Health & Fitness centers.
