USC to spend in excess of $1M per year on 'enhanced fueling plan'

USC will spend in excess of $1 million annually for an "enhanced fueling plan" for all 650+ of its student-athletes, scholarship recipients and walk-ons, according to a statement on USCTrojans.com citing information directly from Trojans Athletic Director Pat Haden.

USC will spend in excess of $1 million annually for an "enhanced fueling plan" for all 650+ of its student-athletes, scholarship recipients and walk-ons, according to a statement on USCTrojans.com citing information directly from Trojans Athletic Director Pat Haden. 

The news comes on the heels of NCAA legislation earlier this year that allows schools to offer nutrition to its athletes effective Aug. 1. The program at USC will come at a cost specifically to the Athletic Department at the school, according to the report. Haden said he's "delighted" for the change even though he acknowledged it's a "significant new expense." 

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"I have always felt we needed to find new avenues to provide our student-athletes with the additional nutritional requirements they need to replenish their bodies after training and competition. I am delighted that USC is now allowed to do this.  Although the program is a significant new expense, it is the right thing to do as we keep in mind the best interests of our student-athletes' welfare."

Two sports dieticians will oversee the program, according to the report. One of them, Becci Twombley, talked about the changes those who will benefit from the program can expect: 

"Twombley said that USC will add high protein foods to its fueling stations in the McKay Center and Galen Center, smoothie stations will be enhanced to allow for better customization of recovery fueling, and snack bags will be available to provide high antioxidant foods to control inflammation."

- Marc Weinreich