Kodiaks Exceed Goal at Fall Blood Drive

Ella Ising (10) gets her blood drawn by an American Red Cross staff member at the Nov. 5 blood drive. “It was pretty scary, but I would do it again to support the community,” said Ising. Photo credit: Stella Peterson (9).

On Nov. 5, 2025, the Sports Medicine Club partnered with the American Red Cross to host the first of two annual blood drives at Cascade High School. The event took place in the wrestling gym and welcomed eligible students ages 16 and older (parent permission required for donors under 18), as well as community members. Over the past three years, the Sports Medicine Club has organized five drives. 

Cascade teacher Omar Stubblefield is one of the school’s most dedicated donors. He has contributed 37 units—equivalent to four gallons—over the course of Cascade’s five blood drives. 

Students played an essential role in preparing and running the event. Members of the Sports Medicine Club assisted with setup, check-in, and donor care.  “My job was to make sure everyone was feeling good afterward,” said Rylie Songer (10), who volunteered during the event. 

“In my previous years helping with blood drives, things have gone very smoothly,” added Ingrid Stockman (11). “This year, I helped from 8–10 a.m., and I assisted with setup and check-in.” 

Other students supported donor flow and organization.  “My job in the blood drive was checking people in and making sure they were coming in and getting out efficiently,” said Cadigan Adams (10). 

Once collected, donated blood is processed by the American Red Cross and distributed throughout Washington State—and in some cases, other states—based on medical need.

This year’s goal was to collect 40 pints, but the turnout far surpassed expectations.  “We got 55 pints; this was our best one ever,” said Sports Medicine advisor Mr. Betz. 

 “We got 55 pints; this was our best one ever,” said Sports Medicine advisor Mr. Betz. 

Sports Medicine leaders were proud of the club’s contributions to the event.  “I thought the blood drive this year was incredibly successful. All the organization and communication from Sports Med to the blood drive operations were very clear and went smoothly,” said Ada Missal (11), a club officer. “I wanted to participate to donate blood and help those who need it around our country.” 

The Sports Medicine Club plans to host its second blood drive of the year in the spring. Students and community members can watch their email and follow Leadership’s social media—Instagram: @kodiak_highschool—for updates.