Bulldogs First Grade squad members Matt Frawley, Josh Reynold and Zac Woolford were this week given a crash course in coffee making and Barista skills.
The workshop, held at FLAME restaurant at the Canterbury Leagues Club, was run by Food & Beverage Manager Wayne Nolland, as well as Head Barista Toli Frathelakis.
The boys began by going through the different types of coffees that can be made and also the distinctive features of each type.
Following this, Matt, Josh and Zac were all shown the process of making a coffee from start to finish. This involved grinding the beans, extracting the coffee, frothing the milk and pouring the finished product.
The boys enjoyed the workshop, as it provided them with an opportunity to see the whole process and requirements that go into creating a product they all enjoy.
“It was a really interesting workshop,” said Bulldogs NRL player Matt Frawley. “For something we just assume is quick and easy to make, there are actually a lot of steps that need to be perfect to ensure a good coffee is produced. I’ll definitely be watching the barista next time I get my morning coffee”, laughed the halfback.
To finish, the boys were given the opportunity to create their own coffees and experiment with the coffee machines and grinders. Lattes, Cappuccinos, Mochas and Piccolos, were all on the drinks menu as the players experimented behind the machines.
Canterbury Leagues Clubs Head Barista Toli Frathelakis said, “The boys got really involved, stayed focused and I think they had a lot of fun”. They made some great coffees too!”
With the great response from the players who attended the workshop, the Bulldogs Education and Wellbeing department is looking to hold another edition, however, this time it will look into covering a more in depth analysis of the business side of running and owning a coffee shop or café.
The Bulldogs Education and Wellbeing department would like to thank Toli Frathelakis for conducting the workshop, as well as the Canterbury Leagues Club for hosting the day.