Connor Stevenson joins Alex's Great State Race

Rivalry week between Michigan State and the University of Michigan brings around many annual traditions. From the Paul Bunyan trophy to painting the Sparty Statue and the Diag, Spartans and Wolverines alike take pride in trying to out-do their in-state rivals. However, one tradition extends beyond the competition between both schools.

Every year, members of the Army ROTC of both schools come together to carry the football game balls from Ann Arbor to East Lansing. Groups of cadets take turns running five miles for the 64-mile journey. This year, a total of 65 cadets took part in the run that took them a little over nine hours to complete.“We are trying to raise awareness for the RCPD program on campus to help people with disabilities have a great college experience like Alex did,” Stevenson said. “When I heard Alex’s story, I was truly inspired by his strength and resilience and we are all happy we can do our part to help others have that same experience.”

While he was running for a cause that inspired him, Stevenson said it was the atmosphere that he enjoyed most.

“I was honored to be able to carry the game ball, and of the 64 miles, I ran about 15,” said Stevenson. “When we got onto campus and started running through the finish line with everyone cheering, it was one of the most amazing things I’ve been apart of and I can’t wait to do it again next year.”