January 27, 2026

‘Red Out the Wink and Rink’ combines athletics, philanthropy and support for women’s heart health

Ferris State University basketball and hockey teams are partnering with students in the Sports Communications program to support the Corewell Health Big Rapids Cardiac Unit.

The ninth annual “Red Out the Wink and Rick” event is planned for Saturday, Jan. 31 at the Sports Complex, 210 Sports Drive.

The event features three Ferris State athletic contests in one day, uniting fans across sports while raising funds for the Corewell Health Women’s Cardiac Unit. Fans are encouraged to wear red and show their Bulldog pride throughout the day.

“Red Out the Wink and Rink” has become a beloved Ferris State tradition, combining athletic excellence, community engagement, and philanthropy. The event highlights the powerful role athletics can play in supporting important community causes.

Ferris State President Bill Pink said the event is an example of how the university can support the greater community.

“We are so needed from a standpoint of what we do for each other as a community,” he said. “This is another one of those things Ferris State does in connection to our community, in this case, focused on community health. This is work that is good for us to do but work we need to do.”

The women’s basketball team kicks off the action against Wayne State University at 1 p.m., with the men’s team taking the court at 3 p.m. The hockey team follows at 6 p.m. against Minnesota State University in Ewigleben Arena.

Attendees can participate in a silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind Ferris State Athletics memorabilia and products donated by local businesses.

Sports Communication students will collect monetary donations during the “Million Dollar Minute” during intermission at each game.

All proceeds will benefit the Corewell Health Women’s Cardiac Unit, supporting vital cardiac care for women in the region.

The American Heart Association lists cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. Donations will go toward purchasing women’s heart health kits, which will be on display at the event.

“Red Out the Wink and Rink” has become a beloved Ferris State tradition, combining athletic excellence, community engagement, and philanthropy. The event continues to highlight the powerful role athletics can play in supporting important community causes.

Ferris State University is an equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities who require accommodations to participate in this event should contact Dr. Jen Coburn, Assistant Professor of Sports Communication, at least 72 hours prior to the event at (231) 591-2781 or [email protected].