Michigan/Michigan State Rivalry to Benefit Ronald McDonald Houses

Regardless of which team wins on the gridiron, the always spirited rivalry between fans of the Michigan State Spartans and Michigan Wolverines will result in big wins for families of hospitalized children.

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Ronald McDonald Houses all over the world give families a place to stay when they've got a patient in a nearby children's hospital. The Ronald McDonald Houses in both Lansing and Ann Arbor have launched a collaborative campaign that they're calling "Battle for the Houses", an effort they hope will raise funds and increase volunteerism at both locations.

About "Battle for the Houses"

"Battle for the Houses" came to life after former MSU football player TJ Duckett (1999-2001) and his wife Sara spent time in a Ronald McDonald House when their little boy required life-saving heart surgery in 2022. Duckett is leading "Battle for the Houses" efforts for the Ronald McDonald House in Lansing, while former UM football player Mike Martin (2008-2011) heads efforts for the Ann Arbor location.

“The Battle for the Houses has provided incredible support for RMHC Mid-Michigan and the families of hospitalized children that we serve,” said Carolyn Hurst, Executive Director of RMHC Mid-Michigan. “The MSU vs. UM rivalry is an opportunity to build excitement and engage the community in support of our local Ronald McDonald House. At the end of the competition, one thing is for sure, all families at RMHC Mid-Michigan in Lansing and RMHC Ann Arbor are the true winners."

 

"Battle for the Houses" Fundraising Opportunities

A couple different events are planned in conjunction with fundraising efforts for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mid-Michigan in Lansing.

On October 19 at 6pm, a pre-game press conference will be held at the Varsity S Club inside Spartan Stadium where fans will be the ones asking the questions. Duckett and Martin are both scheduled to be part of that panel, along with Javon Ringer (MSU 2005-2008), Greg Jones (MSU 2007-2010), plus several UM alumni players. Press conference tickets are $100, and will benefit whichever Ronald McDonald House the buyer chooses.

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On October 21 at 4pm, Duckett Brothers Distributing will host an MSU/UM gameday tailgate on Demonstration Hall field off Kalamazoo Street in East Lansing. Fans and supporters of Ronald McDonald House Charities are invited to stop by and enjoy the festivities. Donations will be accepted, and several former players for both teams are expected to drop in as well.

You can learn more about the "Battle for the Houses" at www.battleforthehouses.com.