Author Matt Lester pledges profits from newbook to support Football Alumni of Michigan
"Blue Blood" chronicles the historic 2023 National Championship season while providing critical resources for the Teammate Assistance Program (TAP).
ANN ARBOR — Author and University of Michigan benefactor Matt Lester today announced that he will donate profits from his upcoming book, "Blue Blood: An Insider's Journey Through Michigan Football's Past, Present, and Perfect Season," to the Football Alumni of Michigan (FAM). The contribution will support the Teammate Assistance Program (TAP), an initiative dedicated to providing essential resources and aid to former Michigan football players in need.
"Blue Blood" takes a comprehensive look at the storied history of the Michigan football program, focusing on the Wolverines’ tumultuous 2023 National Championship. Lester enjoyed unfettered access to the team during that undefeated run and in the years leading up to it, hosting the team at his farm in Charlevoix, mentoring many players through an internship program, and forming a close bond with coach Jim Harbaugh and his assistants.
The result is a book that offers deep insights into the challenges and triumphs of the Michigan squad, widely regarded as one of the best college football teams of all time. ESPN’s Adam Shefter has called it “the definitive account” of Michigan’s 15-0 season.”
“From the locker room speeches to the strategic maneuvers that defined Jim Harbaugh's final year in Ann Arbor, ‘Blue Blood’ is the ultimate insider's guide to Team 144,” Shefter said.
For Lester, the book is about more than just documenting a victory; it is about honoring the men who built the foundation of the program. "My goal has always been to support these players long after their time on the field has ended," said Lester. "By partnering with FAM and supporting the TAP program, we can ensure that the success of Team 144 translates into real-world support for the brothers who came before them and those who will follow."
The Football Alumni of Michigan (FAM) is an independent organization that fosters connection among former players and provides a safety net for those facing life challenges.
"We are incredibly grateful for Matt's generosity and his commitment to our alumni," said Andy Borowski, the chairman of FAM. "The Teammate Assistance Program is a lifeline for many in our community. This donation from the proceeds of 'Blue Blood' will directly impact the lives of our former teammates, helping us provide the support they deserve as members of the Michigan football family."
Jared Wangler of Champions Circle and Valiant Management Group highlighted the significance of the book and the partnership: "Matt Lester has captured the essence of what it means to be a Michigan Man in 'Blue Blood.' This book isn't just a record of a perfect season; it’s a tribute to the legacy of this program. Linking this project to FAM is a perfect alignment of values, ensuring that the excellence we see on Saturdays continues to support our athletes throughout their lives."
Pre-order information
Fans and supporters can pre-order "Blue Blood: An Insider's Journey Through Michigan Football's Past, Present, and Perfect Season" starting today. By purchasing the book, readers are directly contributing to the well-being of Michigan Football alumni through the FAM Teammate Assistance Program.
Pre-order link: https://www.matthewblester.com/blue-blood
Release Date: Dec. 8, 2026
About Football Alumni of Michigan (FAM)
The Football Alumni of Michigan (FAM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the lifelong community of former University of Michigan football players. Through connection, mentorship, professional networking, and targeted support through the Teammate Assistance Program (TAP), FAM helps alumni stay engaged with one another, serve the next generation, and access resources when life presents challenges. To learn more, go to michiganfootballalumni.org.
Media contact
Jonathan Shipley, publicist
