(BPT) - Soccer is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., especially among young athletes. Whether they play forward, midfield or defense, youth soccer players are finding their passion and building community.
This year may inspire even more young athletes to join a soccer team, as the U.S. will host the FIFA Men's World Cup for the first time since 1994.
To help rally support for the national team and nourish the next generation of American soccer stars, Chobani — the official nutrition partner of U.S. Soccer — has launched Feed the Dream. This nationwide campaign aims to create more foundational opportunities for young athletes and reinforce the long-term impact that accessible, community-driven youth sports and proper nutrition can have on future generations.
In addition to investing $5 million to sponsor 500 local teams and hosting giveaways and other events this summer, Chobani is also spreading the word on how proper nutrition off the field creates champions on the field. Check out these six simple tips that can help your young soccer player grow into a star.
1. Eat for energy
What's on your plate shows up on the pitch. That's why it's vital that young soccer players eat simple foods consistently throughout the day to support energy, focus and endurance. When making your grocery list, make sure to include a variety of grains, fruits, veggies and protein, so your athlete can play their best from kickoff to final whistle.
2. Build strong muscles with protein
After practice, the body begins to repair and recover its muscles. To help young players build strong muscles so they can play a strong game, they'll need plenty of protein to help fuel muscle recovery and growth.
Be sure to keep a light yet satisfying protein snack on hand to help your athlete start their recovery as soon as they step off the field. For example, one serving of Chobani Greek Yogurt has 16 grams of protein. And not just any protein, but a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids the body can't make on its own, which are necessary for muscle growth and recovery.
3. Hydrate to win the game
Water doesn't just quench your thirst. It also helps you stay focused, fast and cool as you dribble the ball toward the goal. You can help your young soccer player do their best by making sure they're properly hydrated before, during and after the game.
Encourage your soccer star to hydrate by keeping multiple reusable water bottles on hand: One for home, one for school, practice and games, and one in the car for hydration on the go.
Emphasize drinking plain water instead of sports drinks for most practices and games. Sports drinks may taste good, but they shouldn't be a replacement for water.
4. Carefully plan before-game meals
Preparing for a soccer match starts hours before kickoff. To get ready and stay ready, your athlete needs the right fuel so they can score the game-winning goal.
Plan larger meals earlier in the day that pair protein with carbohydrates to help maintain energy levels and delay fatigue. About 30-60 minutes before the game, offer your athlete a light, easy-to-digest snack like a banana, toast, crackers, applesauce or a Chobani Greek Yogurt drink.
Before the game, make sure to avoid heavy or fried foods, which can slow down your young player. Instead, save the pizza for a postgame celebration.
5. Fuel postgame recovery
The whistle blows. The game is over. But the body is already beginning the work of coming back stronger. Make sure that your soccer player eats 30-60 minutes after a game — just like they would after practice — to help their body recover faster.
While dinner would be ideal, you won't always be able to feed your athlete a full meal within this short time frame. Instead, keep Chobani Greek Yogurt and granola on hand so your child can get a quick hit of carbs and protein. No cooking. No prep. Just open and enjoy.
6. Encourage everyday champion behavior
When it comes to improving your soccer game, consistency is key. That means showing up on and off the field every day. Help your athlete become a champion by supporting good, daily habits like:
- Keeping a consistent sleep and wake schedule
- Sleeping at least eight hours a night
- Eating a balanced diet with fruits, veggies, grains and protein
- Drinking water all day
These everyday habits may seem simple, but they're what turn players into champions.
As you raise the next generation of soccer players, keep these six simple nutrition tips in mind. Every one helps support their bodies, their game and their dreams.
To learn more about Feed the Dream, register and vote for your local team, enter the gear and prize giveaway, or download the nutrition guide, visit Chobani.com/Soccer or scan the QR code on the limited-edition Chobani packaging.
