For student athletes, it is especially important to balance their nutrition in addition to their academic and athletic needs, varsity water polo player, junior Trace Lucero said. Maintaining a good diet is crucial to athletic performance, as eating unhealthy foods can result in poor performance and increased risk of injury, Lucero said.
(Photo by Krist Ferreria)
In essence, a healthy diet is key for athletes to play at their highest potential, varsity volleyball player, sophomore Katie Hamburger said.
“Even if you’re really good, if you don’t eat that well, that can diminish your skill level,” Hamburger said. “You can feel the difference when you eat well versus eating really sloppy the whole day and then playing.”
In order to keep his team healthy throughout the season, cross country coach Kenrick Sealy said he encourages his runners to take care of themselves.
“I’m constantly telling [the team] to make sure to eat well, sleep well. Those things are going to keep you healthy,” Sealy said. “If you neglect those two, most likely you’re going to get injured, because it starts with taking care of your body.”
Besides food, hydration is another important aspect of nutrition that athletes focus on, JV baseball player, junior Aiden Maylard said. It helps with keeping a clear mind during games and boosts concentration, Maylard added.
“If you’re dehydrated, you can feel the effects, especially if you’re playing a game,” Maylard said. “Sports drinks normally have a lot of sugar, so I just prefer water.”
As a result of good nutrition, athletes are kept motivated, which in turn bolsters team spirit, Maylard said.
“If everybody on the team is focused and has a good diet, good nutrition and sleeps well, you can tell the energy is higher. People are communicating more,” Maylard said.
On an individual level, athletes are able to achieve more and have a rewarding lifestyle, Hamburger said.
“It’s important that you can reach your peak ability and keep yourself healthy,” Hamburger said. “If you’re keeping yourself healthy, then that’s like a gift to yourself, because then you can play better and perform better.”
