MANKATO — The family of critically injured former Minnesota State, Mankato football player Isaac Kolstad is urging blood donations in his honor.

The Free Press of Mankato reports dozens came to the Mankato National Guard Armory Tuesday for the first day of a three-day blood drive to honor Kolstad.

Kolstad’s family appealed for blood donations on his CaringBridge website, saying it’s an opportunity for the community to show its support for Kolstad and to help others in need of blood transfusions.

Kolstad was hurt May 11 in a confrontation in downtown Mankato that included former Minnesota Gophers quarterback Philip Nelson. Kolstad remains in critical condition Tuesday evening.