By Omari Welch-Guytan

welchguytano@findlay.edu

Sometimes the food is good, sometimes it could be better. Everyone has an opinion about campus dining, on every campus in America. But for student-athletes at the University of Findlay, the dining options on campus are crucial to peak physical performance.

Track and field assistant coach Justin Fisher sees Henderson through the lens of athletic performance. For him, certain dishes are essential for fueling his jumpers.

“The grilled chicken with vegetables and the salad bar are must-haves. They’re balanced and provide the clean fuel our athletes need,” Fisher said. “But I’ll be honest—pasta night is their favorite. It’s all about loading up on carbs before big practices or meets.”

If he were recommending one meal for athletes, it would be salmon with rice and broccoli. 

“That’s the perfect mix of protein, carbs, and greens. It’s exactly what you want to see on an athlete’s plate,” he explained.

Senior health and physical education major and member of the track and field team, Trey Boblitt is close with one of his favorite meals. 

“My go-to is grilled chicken with rice and vegetables,” Boblitt said. “It’s simple, filling, and gives me the energy I need.”

Boblitt has eaten countless meals at Henderson throughout his four years on campus. As a student-athlete, food choices are more than a matter of taste—they’re a matter of performance. He explained that athletes gravitate toward certain stations depending on timing. 

“Before workouts, most of us load up at the pasta bar for quick carbs. After practice, we focus on protein—chicken, burgers, or deli sandwiches,” he said.

For Boblitt, the standout option is the stir-fry station. 

“It doesn’t get boring because you can change it up every time,” he said. But he also gives a surprising nod to comfort food. “The mac and cheese is underrated. When it’s fresh, it’s some of the best on campus.”

Fisher praised Henderson for its “Power Bowl” bar, where students can customize grains, proteins, and toppings. 

“Athletes love it because it’s flexible and performance-friendly,” he said. He also noted the value of fresh fruit rotations: “Seasonal berries and apples give athletes a healthy recovery snack.”

Most importantly, Fisher sees balance in Henderson’s menu. 

“There’s always pizza and burgers if you want comfort, but there are also lean proteins and plant-based options,” Fisher said. “That balance keeps athletes fueled without taking away the social side of eating.”

When it comes to fueling performance, Boblitt said Henderson gets the job done. 

“The grilled chicken, rice, and salad bar are my top picks,” Boblitt said. “If you put your plate together right, you can make it work.”

And like many students, he looks forward to the dining hall’s seasonal traditions. 

“The Thanksgiving dinner every fall is always packed. Turkey, stuffing, pie—it feels like home for a night,” Boblitt said.