A Century-Old Tradition
From Karl “Bunny” Giller's 1934 SAE vs. Phi Delta Theta keg challenge to a globally recognized collegiate tradition uniting University of Michigan students in support of Michigan Medicine healthcare and research.
The First Mud Bowl
In 1934, SAE brother Karl “Bunny” Giller crossed Washtenaw Avenue to challenge Phi Delta Theta to a football game for a keg of beer around midterms, creating what would become an enduring Ann Arbor tradition (documented by AnnArbor.com).
The Philanthropic Mission
Organizers partnered with Michigan Medicine, transforming the athletic spectacle into one of the university's premier student philanthropic endeavors supporting pediatric care at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital and oncology research at the Rogel Cancer Center.
Modern 501(c)(3) Club
The Michigan Mudbowl Club operates as an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN: 81-3314335) and student organization, hosting men's mud football and women's mud volleyball tournaments across participating Greek chapters. 100% of net proceeds from the Michigan Mudbowl, after event expenses, benefit Michigan Medicine.
Beyond the Mud: The Mott Hospital Visit
Ahead of Mudbowl Saturday, student leaders representing participating Michigan Mudbowl teams visit the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital to experience firsthand the people, care spaces, and purpose behind months of campus fundraising and preparation.
This tradition has emerged over the past few years and has become one of the most meaningful parts of the Mudbowl experience. No single official founding year is claimed where historical documentation is still being compiled. Future annual visits are appended as distinct year-indexed entries without overwriting prior years. Historical entries from earlier tours may be added as dates, photographs, hospital clearances, and participating student leaders are verified.
Student leaders representing the 92nd Annual Michigan Mudbowl display the #92 Mudbowl jersey on the accessible indoor play structure bridge during their Wednesday, November 4, 2026 visit to C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.
Beyond the Mud: Meeting the Little Victors Who Inspire Us
On Wednesday, November 4, just three days before the 92nd Annual Michigan Mudbowl, student leaders from participating teams gathered at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital for an experience that has become one of the most meaningful traditions of Mudbowl week.
Max Wiley — President, Michigan Mudbowl Club (2026)“It was a great tour! I think the game room and Sophie’s tour are both so meaningful, and it’s really cool to see how welcoming Mott tries to be in times that can be so scary for families and patients.”
Be Part of the 2026 Chapter
Help us continue the historic tradition and support Michigan Medicine #FerDaKids.