PULLMAN, Wash.  – Washington State University Athletics, along with the University of Washington Athletics are partnering to create the Rivals United voting initiative.
 
Exercising the right to vote is one thing that can unite the fiercest rivals, and to illustrate that point, the Cougars and Huskies are joining together for an educational session along with a friendly competition. This initiative is set to create a broader voter education, of which an education workshop will be hosted on September 22.
 
Please visit www.wsucougars.com/vote, a resource page developed to provide a vast amount of information regarding voting, such as state voting registration links, deadlines, and much more.
 
"The responsibility to vote is not only a civic duty but more importantly, it provides an opportunity to use our voices within our democracy at federal, state and local levels," said WSU Director of Athletics Pat Chun. "The Rivals United voting initiative is a partnership that will create more opportunities to educate, inform and unite."
 
To show that they are "Rivals United", the Cougars and Huskies will be competing to see which athletic department can get the highest percentage of eligible student-athletes registered by National Register to Vote Day on September 22.
 
On the evening of the 22nd, WSU and UW will take part in a joint educational session open to all student-athletes, coaches, and administrative staff. Guest presenters will cover the following topics:

• HISTORY: Understanding the historical significance of voting in our country.
• IMPACT: The impact and importance of voting and advocacy work in our local and national communities.
• ACTIVISM: How to get involved beyond registering to vote and staying active in Washington.

The winner of the department voter registration competition will be announced during the Sept. 22 educational session, although registration in the state of Washington remains open online through Oct. 26 and in-person up until Election Day on Nov. 3. To register in Washington or confirm registration, visit VoteWa.gov.