GVSU, SVSU compete in 13th annual Battle of the Valleys

Grand Valley State University and Saginaw Valley State University will compete in the 13th annual Battle of the Valleys from November 8-14 to raise the most donations for a selected organization.

For the second year, Grand Valley will raise donations for the Grand Valley Children’s Fund, a fund established last year to assist Grand Valley groups and local non-profits that work with children. 

The university that raises the most money will be announced at halftime during the Grand Valley vs. Saginaw Valley football game November 14 at Lubbers Stadium. 

Since the start of the competition in 2003, Grand Valley has won the fundraising competition three times; the last time was in 2007 with $31,382 raised. 

"BOV is unique because it incorporates both tradition and rivalry, but also Laker pride and community," said Maddie Cleghorn, president of Student Senate. "We hope all Lakers will step up and get involved in this fun week of competition and giving back."

A variety of events will take place throughout the week, including the sale of raffle tickets and $10 BOTV T-shirts in the Kirkhof Center lobby. 

Monday, November 9

- 10 a.m.-noon, Kirkhof Center lobby: Laker Flapjacks (pancakes) will be for sale for $3. 

- 2-4 p.m., Arboretum: Capture the Cardinal game, $3

Tuesday, November 10

- 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Kirkhof Center lobby: Laker celebrities will be available to be 'pied' for $2-5. 

- 9 p.m., Cook-DeWitt Center: GV's Got Talent

Wednesday, November 11

- 7-10 p.m., Kirkhof Center, Pere Marquette Room: The Grand Eating Contest. A team of five students costs $5. 

Thursday, November 12

- 7-10 p.m., Kirkhof Center, lower level: Cider Ball Tournament, $5

Since Battle of the Valleys began in 2003, Grand Valley and Saginaw Valley have raised more than $450,000 in support of organizations like the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Student Advancement Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of Saginaw County, United Way and S.P.O.R.T.S. (Students Providing Opportunities and Recreation Through Sports).