Hokie Tracks Ice Cream: A Sweet Treat That Transforms Lives
**Hokie Tracks Ice Cream: A Sweet Treat That Transforms Lives
**
**About Hokie Tracks Ice Cream
**
Hokie Tracks is a beloved ice cream flavor created at Virginia Tech in 1995. It features a creamy blend of vanilla ice cream swirled with peanut butter cups and caramel. With over 2 million gallons sold annually, Hokie Tracks has become a symbol of university spirit and sweet indulgence.
**Economic Impact
**
Hokie Tracks generates substantial economic impact:
- Contributes **over $6 million** to Virginia Techs athletic department annually
- Supports **over 200 jobs** in the university and local community
- Drives **$12 million** in sales revenue for the University Dairy
**Health Benefits
**
Despite its sweet indulgence, Hokie Tracks offers some nutritional benefits:
- Provides **calcium and protein** for healthy bones and muscles
- Contains **vitamin D** for immune function
- Can satisfy dessert cravings without excessive sugar consumption
**Social Impact
**
Hokie Tracks transcends its culinary appeal to create a sense of community:
- **Unites Hokies worldwide:** Alumni and fans share a nostalgic connection through the ice cream.
- **Promotes student success:** Proceeds from Hokie Tracks support scholarships and student programs.
- **Inspires local partnerships:** The University Dairy collaborates with businesses to promote the ice cream and engage the community.
**A Sweet Success Story
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**The Birth of Hokie Tracks
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In 1995, Virginia Techs dairy manager, David Guynn, was tasked with creating a new ice cream flavor. Inspired by the universitys mascot, the Hokie bird, he combined vanilla, peanut butter cups, and caramel, resulting in the iconic Hokie Tracks.
**The Peanut Butter Cup Crusaders
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A dedicated group of students, known as the "Peanut Butter Cup Crusaders," emerged to spread the word about Hokie Tracks. They organized taste tests, distributed promotional materials, and built a loyal following for the ice cream.
**A National Phenomenon
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The popularity of Hokie Tracks quickly grew beyond the university campus. In 2019, it was named the **#1 college ice cream flavor** in the nation by SB Nation. Today, Hokie Tracks is available in over **15 states** and online through the Virginia Tech Dairy.
**How to Experience Hokie Tracks
**
- **Visit the University Dairy:** Enjoy a scoop or pint of Hokie Tracks at the Virginia Tech Dairy Store.
- **Find it at Local Grocers:** Hokie Tracks is available at most grocery stores in Virginia and select locations nationwide.
- **Order Online:** Order pints or quarts of Hokie Tracks directly from the Virginia Tech Dairy website.
- **Attend University Events:** Hokie Tracks is a staple at Virginia Tech sporting events and campus gatherings.
**Hokie Tracks in Popular Culture
**
- **"The Hokie Pokie Man":** A parody song, "The Hokie Pokie Man," celebrates the ice creams popularity.
- **"Hokies Got Milk?":** A clever advertising campaign featured students and faculty enjoying Hokie Tracks milkshakes.
- **"The Hokie Tracks Effect":** The ice creams widespread appeal has been dubbed the "Hokie Tracks Effect," a term used to describe the positive impact of university-branded products on local communities.
**Conclusion
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Hokie Tracks ice cream is more than just a sweet treat. It is a culinary icon that brings together Hokies, supports the university, promotes student success, and fosters a sense of community. As a symbol of Virginia Techs spirit, Hokie Tracks will continue to inspire, delight, and transform lives for generations to come.
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