Get in the Game. Save a Life.
April 6, 2011
Coach Golden poses with bone marrow recipient and Miami alum Marty Rubin.
Coral Gables, Fla.–The Hurricanes football team continued their track record of community service by joining their fans and the UM community in a bone marrow drive for patients with leukemia or other life-threatening diseases. The event, held at the University Center’s Flamingo Ballroom, was attended by President Donna Shalala, head coach Al Golden, members of the Miami football team, UM students and volunteers throughout South Florida.
“What a great day for the University of Miami community as the `Canes registered 275 bone marrow donor candidates,” said Golden. “Thank you to Director of Player Development Ryan McNamee who did an incredible job spearheading the event, our coaches, support staff, and all of our football student-athletes who generously gave their time and effort to this wonderful cause.”
“Special recognition must go to Villanova coach Andy Talley who has been instrumental in bringing awareness to the Be The Match Registry® and saving lives for the past two decades,” said Golden. “We also want to express our sincere appreciation to our student body for making this such a special day.”
Marty Rubin, a 1964 Miami graduate and football and men’s basketball season ticket holder traveled from Hollywood, Fla. to volunteer for most of the day.
“This is going to save people’s lives,” said Rubin. “I emailed coach Golden when I heard about this and asked if there was any way I could help.”
Rubin had a transplant 10 years ago after being diagnosed with a type of blood cancer.
“The football team being involved is especially important because it will help bring everyone in the community together. It is a very simple procedure and we can all be in the business of saving lives.”
Drew Hughes, a sophomore from Miami, gave a DNA sample to the bone marrow registry for the first time on Tuesday.
“I’m in good physical health and if I can help someone, I don’t see any reason not to,” said Hughes.
Hughes found out about the opportunity when he was handed a flyer in the Breezeway.
Sophomore defensive end Dyron Dye was one of the many players handing out fliers and escorting community members to the event.
“I’m doing this to help save a life,” said Dye. “Anytime you can help someone, it’s a good thing to do.” “If I was in a situation like this, I would want someone to help me too.”
The partnership between the `Canes football team, more than 30 colleges and universities throughout the country and the Get in the Game, Save A Life program has helped to contribute to the recruitment of more than 5,000 potential bone marrow donors.
UM’s student-athletes have made a priority of being positive members in the community and will continue with service efforts throughout the year.
