Orange City and Emus rugby clubs will be trying to donate as much blood as possible before the opening round of the Blowes Clothing Cup competition on March 31.

Players, supporters, family members, ex-players and anyone keen to support the cause is being invited to contribute to help the Red Cross with its regular need for blood donations.

Orange City Lions club captain Paul Hepworth said it was a great way to support their on-field rivalry by competing in trying to donate the most blood as possible.

“A lot of our players donate regularly anyway and I happened to be donating one day and thought it made sense for us to come together to try and help the Australian Red Cross,” he said.

“Regardless of who takes home the trophy come game day, the fact that we’ve managed to influece people who may not have thought about donating but have now to get around the boys has already made both club winners.

“You don’t have to be a player to donate.

“The challenge goes out to everyone in our community.

“If you can’t donate you can still show your support by sharing posts on social media or just talking about it with family and colleagues.

“Encouragement is a powerful motivator.

“We’re going to push the cause between now and round one.

“We’d like it to become an annual event, in the pre-season.”

Orange Emus club captain Matt Findlay said Emus were up for the challenge.

“Paul approached us with the idea and we jumped at the chance,” he said.

“We’re stoked to be involved, it’s a great initiative.

“Our clubs enjoy a really strong relationship.

“It’s a great chance for us to come together but not enough people are donating.

“We’re hoping it will really raise some awareness as well.”

To make a donation you first need to register with either the Orange City Rugby Club or Orange Emus Rugby Club at www.donateblood.com.au/red25/join-red25-group and book an appointment.

Or you can go to the Orange Red Cross office at 84 Kite Street and let staff know which club you are supporting when you donate.