Being at camp for a tournament as prestigious as the Women’s World Cup requires the U.S. women’s national team to have their every need taken care of so they can solely focus on winning. U.S. Soccer, responsible for handling all the details during their stay in Auckland, New Zealand, ensures that the players have everything they need to gain a competitive edge. One key aspect of this is food. With a dedicated staff of around 10 individuals solely responsible for preparing meals and feeding the players around the clock, the team emphasizes the importance of viewing “food as fuel”.
A Highlight of the Day
The highly structured and regimented schedule of the camp means that meal times become a highlight of the players’ days. Not only do the players look forward to socializing with their teammates and relaxing, but they also anticipate what will be on the menu. The variety and quality of the food provided have been highly praised by the players. The menu changes daily, offering two protein choices, various starches, vegetables, and stations where players can create their own salads, fruit platters, and yogurt bowls. Additionally, the team’s nutritionist and chef collaborate with players to create “player spotlight meals”, allowing individuals to have a say in their meal planning.
Accommodating Special Diets
The team also caters to players with special dietary requirements. Co-captain Alex Morgan, defender Sofia Huerta, and Alana Cook follow a vegan diet, while others have specific dietary restrictions such as being dairy-free. The staff ensures that these players’ needs are met while still maintaining a balanced nutritional intake for optimal performance.
The Composition of Meals
The composition of meals varies depending on where the players are in their game cycle. The day before a game, known as “Match Day Minus-1”, features a carbohydrate-heavy selection to provide the players with the necessary energy. This may include starchy vegetables, premade sandwiches, or higher-carb entrees. Post-match meals, on the other hand, allow the players to indulge a bit more. These meals include a mix of enjoyable and functional foods, such as pork bacon, breakfast Danish, smoked salmon, and chia seed pudding, to aid in recovery.
Catering to Different Tastes
The team’s nutritionist and chef strive to appeal to everyone’s taste preferences while still meeting their nutritional needs. While tacos and poke bowls are consistently popular among the players, the nutritionist also attempts to introduce less favored items like beets. All the ingredients used for the meals are sourced locally from Auckland, except for the team’s own supply of protein powders and supplements.
Investing in Nutrition
U.S. Soccer recognizes the importance of nutrition in the players’ performance and has made significant investments to ensure their needs are met. The team received a substantial sum of money for tournament preparations, which allowed them to expand and renovate their base camp in Auckland. This included providing a private chef who prepares round-the-clock meals for the players. While not every team may have made this investment, the U.S. women’s national team appreciates the luxury and the benefits it brings.
Nutrition plays a vital role in the success of the U.S. women’s national team at the Women’s World Cup. By providing carefully planned and nutritionally balanced meals, the team ensures that the players have the fuel they need to perform at their best. The attention to detail and accommodation of special diets further contribute to the team’s overall well-being. With the support of a dedicated staff, the players can focus solely on their ultimate goal: winning the tournament.
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