Sun-Sentinel article on FAU/FIU response to stipend
In the past, the NCAA dictated how often athletes could have food provided by the football program known as "training table" meals and how often they could eat meals at on-campus cafeterias. Those living off campus would receive checks comparable to the cost of eating at the on-campus cafeterias.
With no restrictions, football programs could be more aggressive providing exactly what they want their athletes to eat.
"I think its huge," Partridge said of the unlimited meal option. "If I learned anything from my first year at Wisconsin, it was that we were solid. We were OK. Next year we won 10 games and went on to beat a very athletic Miami team in a bowl game. The next three years, we went to the Rose Bowl and you can point to the increase and focus on nutrition."
Partridge said FAU is still waiting for the NCAA clarify what it can and cannot provide athletes.
FAU's administration along with Partridge has reviewed several plans, he said. They've been advised by the team's strength and conditioning coach and faculty from the food sciences department about the strongest nutrition choices.
All of this does come at a cost. Partridge said all the plans fit within FAU's budget.
"We've looked at what can we do and what can we supply," Partridge said. "But this rule, we will have an answer for it once we have an interpretation."