Nicholls Dining Services Scores Big at Manning Passing Academy

Nicholls State University proudly hosted the Manning Passing Academy from June 27 to 30, 2024, marking another successful year of this prestigious football camp. Since its inception at Nicholls in 2005, the camp has grown to become a cornerstone event, attracting over 1,200 high school quarterbacks and receivers from across the United States and international destinations.

The festivities began with the Manning Passing Academy Welcome Reception on Thursday, where Nicholls Dining Services, along with 46 vendor partners, provided a Southern welcome with 10 gallons of Chick-fil-A Lemonade and 10 gallons of Sweet Tea. This reception set the tone for the camp, fostering a sense of community and hospitality.

Throughout the camp, Nicholls Dining Services played a crucial role in ensuring that over 1,300 students, counselors, and coaches were well-fed. Meals were served in the Galliano Dining Hall and the on-campus Chick-fil-A, managing to feed everyone in less than two hours per meal period.

The efficiency and dedication of the dining staff were evident, contributing significantly to the smooth operation of the camp. In total, Chick-fil-A went through 2,160 lbs of chicken and 40 cases of waffle fries. The staff worked very long hours and did it with a great attitude, engaging with campers enthusiastically by taking photos and making TikTok videos. The campers were very polite and well-behaved, making the experience enjoyable for everyone involved.

A major draw of the Manning Passing Academy is the opportunity for campers to learn directly from the legendary Manning family. Archie, Peyton, Eli, and Cooper Manning were present throughout the week, offering their expertise and personal tips on improving the campers' game. Their hands-on involvement provided campers with unparalleled insights into becoming better players.

Adding to the camp's unique atmosphere were the collegiate counselors, many of whom have gone on to become starting players in the NFL. Alumni of the camp include prominent names such as Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, Dak Prescott, Brock Purdy, and Joe Burrow, all of whom served as counselors during their college years. This year, the camp featured some of the top collegiate quarterbacks for the 2024 season, including Georgia’s Carson Beck, Ole Miss’s Jaxson Dart, Texas’s Quinn Ewers, Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel, Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard, Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, and Texas’s Arch Manning.

The camp culminated with the Friday Night Lights event at John L. Guidry Stadium, where campers and fans enjoyed the Air-It-Out and Quarterback Challenge passing demonstrations. This event featured some of the country’s top college quarterbacks competing in a thrilling football passing competition. Nicholls Dining Services also provided fine dining catering in the VIP box during the Friday Night Lights event, offering an elevated experience for special guests.

Saturday’s schedule included a Free Parents Lunch Seminar, presented by Meyer Financial Group. Held at the Bollinger Memorial Student Union, the seminar provided valuable insights into the college athletics recruitment process, covering topics such as recruitment restrictions, financial aid tips, sports medicine, college preparation, and campus life. This seminar, coupled with a free lunch and campus tours, offered parents a comprehensive understanding of the pathways to college athletics.

Nicholls State University has consistently provided an ideal venue for the Manning Passing Academy. The local community, known for its warm hospitality and rich Cajun culture, has embraced the event, creating a welcoming environment for all attendees. The camp not only enhances the skills of young athletes but also contributes significantly to the local economy, generating an estimated $3-$4 million annually.

The camp’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Nicholls Dining Services, the university staff, and the Manning family. The dedication to providing excellent service and creating a memorable experience for all participants ensures that the Manning Passing Academy remains a highlight of the year at Nicholls State University.

Nicholls Dining Services staff took pride in engaging with the campers, making them feel at home away from home. The team enjoyed meeting people from across the country and even organized a fun competition among the cashiers, who asked each guest where they were from. The cashier who collected the most locations won a small prize, adding to the camp's friendly and inclusive atmosphere.

As the camp concluded on Sunday morning, the sense of accomplishment and community was palpable. Nicholls Dining Services eagerly anticipates continuing to support this event, uniting young athletes, their families, and the local community for many more years to come.