Say you were trying to feed a high school basketball team

[teachermom2834]

I have a last minute request to provide a pre game meal for my ds high school basketball game. Cooking isn't an option right now. I will have to buy something. I am looking at subs from Publix deli or Chik Fil A or Zaxby's trays of chicken strips. I will also provide chips/cookies/drinks.

 

I am stuck on how much to buy (I will not be there to pack up leftovers so I'd like to not overshoot by too much but I definitely won't want to be the mom that didn't bring enough food.) There will be about 15 players/coaches. Several boys six foot plus, so not little guys! When I look at catering and a tray says it will feed 14-16 people and I know that will not be enough for these guys. How many "people" should I be trying to plan for? In other words, 15 basketball players eat as much as how many normal people? Lol. Do you think it is enough to buy what restaurants say should feed 25-30 people? I have no experience with this sort of thing. Help!!!

[Gil]

1) You're a great person. Personally I'd pick up 4 Souper 6 Pack of Ramen and blame it on the short notice.

 

2) This is pregame so they don't need to gorge themselves. I'd get the 14-16 platter + snacks on the side and call it good. (Actually, I'd get the Ramen, but you know what I mean.)

[TammyS]

My son is 6'9", so based on his apetite, I would say buy for 2x the people you are going to feed.  If they are actually going to be playing (like if this for after the game), make it 3x. 

[texasmama]

Well, they will not want to eat a huge amount of food immediately before a game so I would actually plan something like the subs, chips, cookies and drinks.  I would avoid sodas for more hydrating drinks.  Avoid fried foods or heavy foods.  I would plan a moderate amount per person and supplement with a fruit selection.  Some will know not to gorge themselves prior to a game but others will not.  But that is not your responsibility, particularly since coaches will be there.

 

I am mom to two high school bball players so I know what you are talking about.  My 15 year old ate two full lunches today.

Edited February 2, 2016 by texasmama

[Caroline]

I bet 25-30 would be enough. I am also betting that you really cannot over buy. When we feed the soccer team, there are never any leftovers. We usually do chicken sandwiches from Chick Fil a, so a sandwich per person, which makes it easier. But we have also done Publix subs-half a sub a kid, but that's harder because you have to guess toppings. I have never done Zaxby's but will keep that in mind for this season. Our boys eat post game. We do peanut butter and jelly sandwiches pre game, with a granola bar and a piece of fruit.

[Pink and Green Mom]

I think the food for 25-30 people would be enough.

[FaithManor]

I would be inclined to put out some sub buns and a deli tray with some cheeses, condiments on the side, this way they can make their own. Some of these guys might not eat as much as you think because well, it's pretty easy to get nauseous from eating a big meal right before exercising so strenuously. I would maybe put out some easy fruit that isn't too sugary like grapes, and then water and juice but not soda.

[bettyandbob]

Our Safeway sells these subs that are huge (more than a foot long and wide). They could easily feed three teen boys with the addition of chips. They sell these subs for 4.99. 

 

I'd get a 8-10 of those and some bags of chips. 

[sassenach]

Our Safeway sells these subs that are huge (more than a foot long and wide). They could easily feed three teen boys with the addition of chips. They sell these subs for 4.99.

 

I'd get a 8-10 of those and some bags of chips.

They're called All American subs and they are a great deal. I was just about to suggest the same thing.

[VeteranMom]

I'd get Mexican food for them- tacos, refried beans/rice, chips, salsa.  If there are 15 boys, I'd provide enough food for 30.  I've fed boys from the team my husband coaches and they will eat 2-3 times what a normal person eats.

[lollie010]

I agree with at least 2x. The ranges they give are based on pretty small serving sizes. We do a lot of catering and would double even for non-athletes. Also, I hate to say because we LOVED zaxby's, but regrettably every time my kiddos have had zaxby's before a game or during a tournament they have vomited. :(

[teachermom2834]

Thanks for all the ideas! They often get hot wings for the meal so this bunch does not worry about eating heavy, apparently. But I definitely think sandwiches would be better. Thanks!

[Katy]

I'd do for 45.  I doubt there will be any leftovers even if you bought for 60.