NAFC focuses on a growth mindset on and off the pitch.  Soccer is a great team sport and the team is filled with individual personalities.  It is important to encourage our players to learn from our coaching staff and each other by asking questions and being open to receive answers and information to help them and the team communicate, develop and work towards a common goal!  

We have introduced a short weekly yoga session before training led by Jennifer Coyle.  She has been an amazing instructor and has given us additional techniques to use for game/practice preparation, focus, stretching and the importance of taking ownership with personal responsibility. 

     NUTRITION IS INVALUABLE FOR OPTIMIZING NOT JUST PERFORMANCE BUT ALSO HEALTH THROUGHOUT A LONG SEASON.
 
                         

We want the players to be part of the process and decision making for what they put into their bodies for fuel.  It is fun for them to experiment and try new things from smoothies, to breakfast ideas and even sometimes interesting dinners that may include all colors of the rainbow!  

Giving the players some control and accountability in their decisions now, will help them develop healthy habits in the future.  The information below goes into more details of the importance of the right foods to eat before game day.  We like to take it 1 step further and encourage the whole family to have fun with it and get involved!

When all athletes pay attention to what, how much, and when they consume foods and fluids, their chances for enjoying a winning season get stronger. 

Soccer Players: The Importance of Nutrition for Preparing for Game Day

The day before a soccer game or weekend tournament, the team should:

• Train only lightly; this allow muscles time to refuel.
• Hydrate well; the goal being copious light-colored urine.
• Choose carbohydrate-based meals and snacks.