A buzz is in the air at the carpool line as students gather around the new smoothie stand. Lines pile up as students clamor to try the three unique flavors offered, Maui Wowi, Berrylicious, and Berry Blast. These smoothies made with frozen fruit have been a hit with Trinity students, consistently being sold out. The stand, a new addition to campus life, was originally conceived by Food Director Chris Behrens. He started the venture with early-morning athletes in mind, aiming to provide them with a convenient and nutritious option.
“The thought [of starting a smoothie stand] was because of the athletes. I was talking to a couple of people that came in the early morning,” Behrens said. “They were just training over there, and then I asked them how they felt about smoothies.”
Additionally, the smoothie stand offers healthier options compared to the usual cookies and chips found in the Grille. Athletes need nutrition and protein to improve their performance. As an athlete, freshman Liam Weber appreciates the fact that smoothies are healthier and he can add protein to them.
“I’m looking forward to putting protein in it, which is good for me because I’m an athlete and I care about what I consume,” Weber said.
Weber is excited to try the new smoothies as he wants to see if they can replace breakfast, which he usually gets at the Grille. Although the smoothie is popular among Trinity students like freshman Spencer Scherer, the price can be considered pretty expensive for the product.
“It was alright,” Scherer said. “It was a mix of tart and sweet. It didn’t meet my expectations for being seven bucks though.”
Besides the price, one of the biggest problems with the new smoothie stand is the long line, which has deterred students from trying the smoothie altogether. The smoothie stand was originally located at the concessions stand in the RAC, but Behrens decided to move it to the Grille. Behrens moved the smoothie stand to the Grille to remedy the problems with the lines.
“I’m going to move it back into the Grille and see,” Behrens said. “I have to use a separate card system. It takes longer and the line’s already long, you don’t want to wait.”
This wasn’t Behrens’ first attempt at creating a smoothie stand. The original smoothie stand wasn’t as popular and didn’t work out. Learning from his mistake, Behrens is experimenting with different menu items and is open to hearing out different smoothie recipe ideas from Trinity students.
Despite the struggles, the latest smoothie stand is well received by students. Though there are concerns about pricing and long lines, it is still a worthwhile experience for Trinity Prep students.
“It’s something you have to experience, especially at school,” Scherer said, “Even if you don’t like the smoothie, it’s still a refreshing drink to have.”
