What does a Wolverine Eat?

Ever wondered how Wolverines get to be the size that they are? Sure, Mike Barwis plays a role, but so does Chef Kelly, head chef at South Quad, who presides over the Training Table dining room which operates exclusively for the Michigan Football and Basketball teams.

The 9" diameter plates that are used by all other dining halls on campus are replaced by 16" platters, the 16 oz blue cups that normal students get? Those are gone in favor of 24 oz blue cups featuring the block M logo. Most players don't even bother with the cups though, choosing to drink straight from 60 oz pitchers instead.

This summer, smoothie machines have been installed for the players' use featuring banana, peach, and strawberry flavors. The smallest size smoothie contains a whopping 635 calories. Last night quite a few players had two or three of those on top of their "normal" meal.

What is a normal meal you ask? Well, here's what was on the serving line last night:

Main Courses

• 16 oz New York Strip Steak (available medium-rare and well-done)
• Seafood Fettuccine with Shrimp, Scallops, and Mussels
• Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks
• Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Grilled Halibut
  
• Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce
• Pulled Pork Sandwiches
• French Onion Soup
• Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce
  

Sides

• Mozzarella Sticks
  
• Green Beans
• Corn on the Cob
• Sauteed Mushrooms and Onions

There was also a full salad bar and fresh fruit bar offered. For desert, players could choose from various ice cream novelty bars, soft serve ice cream with assorted toppings, and chocolate/yellow cupcakes and frosting.

The biggest eater of the night was one of the linemen who put away three 16 oz steaks to go with some drumsticks and mozzarella sticks. Most players had no problem polishing off several entrees before heading out to their 6:30 team meeting. A few of the coaches wandered in to eat during the meal but most received their meals in take out boxes delivered by the team managers.

Next Michigan Football update should come from media day tomorrow morning which will be followed by an autograph session with the team. The autograph/meet-the-team event is free and open to the public. Those interested should park in the lot by Crisler and then make their way to the practice field alongside of Schembechler Hall/Oosterbaan Field House.