Each fall, on the Friday before the Michigan–Michigan State football game, ROTC cadets from both universities unite to carry the game ball on a 64-mile journey from the University of Michigan’s Diag to the Sparty Statue in East Lansing. This powerful tradition redefines the rivalry, highlighting teamwork and a shared commitment to making education accessible to all.
Alex’s Great State Race 2025 - Great Race, Greater Purpose
Join Alex’s Great State Race (AGSR) — a tradition that transforms the spirited Michigan State vs. University of Michigan rivalry into a powerful display of teamwork, inclusion, and accessibility. The race honors the life and legacy of Alex Powell, a Spartan whose extraordinary courage and determination continue to inspire. While facing a rare and aggressive cancer, Alex embraced his MSU experience with resilience, optimism, and leadership, supported in part by MSU’s Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities and treatment at U-M. His dream of making the world better lives on through AGSR, which unites Spartans and Wolverines in support of students with disabilities at both universities.
In-Person Relay Event — Friday, October 24, 2025
Each year on the eve of the Michigan–Michigan State football game, ROTC cadets from both universities unite to carry the game ball nearly 64 miles between campuses. This symbolic relay honors Alex’s story and represents the shared commitment to access and inclusion across both schools.
This is where individuals running the distance with the game ball will register, as well as those who want to follow the team’s progress online throughout the day. While the running team itself is set, you can still be part of the action by tracking their journey and cheering them on virtually.
Month-Long Virtual Component — October 2025
Want to get involved yourself? Join the virtual race, where you can run, walk, or roll your miles anytime, anywhere during the entire month of October.
How It Works:
Register online and choose your distance.
Complete your miles at your own pace throughout October.
Submit your results through RunSignUp.
Share your photos and stories to inspire others!
When registering, you can also choose to direct your support to either:
MSU’s Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (RCPD)
U-M’s Student Accessibility & Accommodation Services (SAAS)
Or split your support between both
Why Participate?
Whether you’re a Spartan, a Wolverine, or simply a supporter of equitable access, Alex’s Great State Race gives you a chance to celebrate community while making a real impact.
Together, we race for access. Together, we race for inclusion.
