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NEMCC challenges ICC to "Out for Blood" donation drive to help area blood banks

Over 125 units of blood were raised between the two schools in 2024

by Michael H. Miller

BOONEVILLE, Miss. -- (10/15/2025) — Northeast Mississippi Community College's Iota Zeta chapter of Phi Theta Kappa honor society will once again put the "Northeast Family" to work for a lifesaving cause as it hosts its annual fall blood drive in conjunction with the Northeast-Itawamba football game.

Northeast and Itawamba's friendly rivalry between two of the Magnolia State's closest community colleges has evolved into more than just a battle on the football field.

Each fall, Northeast and Itawamba channel their competitive spirits into the "Out for Blood" donation drive, challenging one another to see which school can collect the most units of blood for area blood banks.

Last year's contest proved the impact of the community-minded competition.

Between the two schools, a total of 127 units of blood were donated, a contribution capable of affecting nearly 400 lives.

Each unit can be separated into red blood cells, platelets, and plasma -- meaning every pint has the potential to help multiple patients. Red blood cells are critical for surgeries and trauma care, platelets support cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and plasma benefits burn victims and those suffering severe blood loss.

In 2024, Northeast overcame a slow start to clinch victory. After trailing Itawamba 30-17 on the opening day, the Tigers mounted a two-day comeback, finishing with 76 units compared to ICC's 51. The rally earned Northeast the coveted "Out for Blood" trophy for the second year in a row, following a narrow 61-53 win in 2023.

Traditionally held in late September to coincide with the football game, this year's "Out for Blood" drive has shifted closer to Halloween as the two rivals will not square off on the gridiron until Thursday, October 23, in Fulton.

Northeast's portion of the "Out for Blood" donation drive will take place Tuesday, October 21-Thursday, October 23 in the Claude Wright Room of the Haney Union on the Booneville campus.

Donation times for Northeast's portion of the "Out for Blood" donation drive are 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Tuesday, October 21; 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22 and 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thursday, October 23.

Winner of this year's competition -- and the holder of the 2025 "Out for Blood" trophy -- will be announced either before kickoff or at halftime of the Northeast-Itawamba game in Fulton.

For more information about Northeast's "Out for Blood" donation drive, contact Phi Theta Kappa advisor Andrea Mathis at ahmathis@nemcc.edu.

--NEMCC--

Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College

Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields.

For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

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Social Media graphic for the "Out for Blood" Donation drive between Northeast Mississippi Community College and Itawamba Community College

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