What can Sports Clubs do…

Helping kids develop a healthier relationship with food does not mean being perfect. It means creating a culture where nutritious choices feel normal, valued and supported. Sports clubs play a powerful role in shaping children’s habits on and off the pitch. Here are a few key ways clubs can make a meaningful difference:

Instead of handing out sweets, chocolate bars or fizzy drinks after training, clubs can shift the culture by asking parents to bring yoghurt, fruit, sandwiches or other nutritiously packed food, celebrating effort and participation in healthier ways. Coaches can provide light guidance or friendly reminders about healthy sideline snacks, making it easier for families to feel supported in those decisions. Verbal praise, team shout-outs, stickers or small non-food items like badges or wristbands can be just as exciting and far more supportive of long-term wellbeing. This sends the message that fun, connection and recognition do not need to come in a sugary wrapper.

When coaches, staff and older players model healthy eating habits such as drinking water, avoiding sugary snacks and talking positively about food and energy, it has a ripple effect. Kids naturally mimic those they admire, so clubs have a huge opportunity to show that food is fuel and that smart choices are part of being an athlete.

Nutrition does not have to be a formal lesson. Clubs can incorporate small messages about food and hydration into training sessions or posters in changing rooms. Topics like “eat the rainbow,” snacks for recovery or hydration tips can be shared casually. Inviting a local nutritionist for a workshop or running a healthy snack challenge can also boost engagement and awareness.