WARRENSBURG, Mo. – University of Central Missouri Athletics officially cut the ribbon on a brand-new fueling station for Mules and Jennies student-athletes Saturday, Nov. 16, at Walton Stadium/Kennedy Field.

Thanks to the generous support of UCM alumnus, Jim Pollard of the Robert Oliphant Charitable Foundation, the fueling station has become a reality.

"Last year we surveyed our student-athletes and asked them, 'What targeted enhancements would benefit you the most?' Their top response was nutritional support," UCM Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Matt Howdeshell said. "Thanks to Jim Pollard and the Oliphant Foundation, this top need has been met. With this addition, and recent investments in mental health and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) support, UCM student-athletes enjoy a holistic support model that is unmatched in the MIAA or NCAA D-II."

UCM Mules & Jennies student-athletes in every sport are now able to receive protein shakes, supplements and more to help them refuel after practice and maintain optimal health for maximum output.

"As athletes, we need to be at our best both physically and mentally, and nutrition plays a massive role in both," Mules golf student-athlete Calvin Dillon said. "With the addition of this fueling station, we will be able to perform at our ceiling during competition and continue to strive toward the winning standard and tradition that UCM athletics represents."

"Proper nutrition and recovery are becoming increasingly important in the world of athletics," Jennies volleyball student-athlete Arley Anderson said. "To be at your best, athletes need the right fuel before, during and after their workout. With the implementation of this fueling station, we will have quick, easy access to the fuel that will help our bodies rebuild and get stronger, which I know will help us perform better on the court."

"The fueling station will provide our student-athletes with the supplemental nutrition needs that athletes require to perform at their physical best," Mules football head coach Josh Lamberson said. "This addition to our student-athlete experience will have a daily impact on our young people and provide them with calories to perform at their best before, during and after their athletic endeavors. It is a major piece in building the premier athletic department in NCAA Division II."