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By Tiffany Albritton-Hickman

A few concerned parents in Tiger Nation, have partnered with the Greenville High School (GHS) Athletic Department, the City of Greenville, and the Child Nutrition Program (CNP) to implement a new nutrition plan for its football team. 

The parents have been actively working with GHS faculty and staff to facilitate the planning and the budgeting of this new effort and to ensure the team meets its weekly nutrition requirements, focusing on carbohydrates and protein.

“We know that proper nutrition is important for life in general,” said Principal Jamie Howard. “We want our student athletes to give their best in the classroom and on the field. We can’t thank our parents enough for offering this program to our student athletes. It is a small gesture that will have a huge impact in the lives of our students and the success of our team.”

The plan will include a post-morning workout snack, pregame meal, and a pregame snack. The students were able to vote on their favorite options, and hamburger steak, chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls, and bananas were top overall picks for the pregame meal. Protein bars and Uncrustables were the top choices for snacks.

Bernadette Robinson, CNP Manager, said she is excited to support the Tigers by preparing healthy and delicious options for them. 

“These are our Tigers, and we want to send them out fully prepared to win,” she said.

“Parents and coaches are responsible for the discipline of the children,” Howard said. “It is important that we model positive behavior as well, teaching them that what they put into their bodies matter.”

Coach Pimienta added that proper nutrition is crucial to performing well on the field. 

“If the students aren’t fueled properly, they will have a difficult time performing on the field. Diet and training go hand in hand. You can’t out train a bad diet,” he said.

The Tigers are now 0-3 as they fell to Eufaula last Friday night. This week will be the second week of operation for the nutritional plan, and the Tigers are more focused than ever. Pimineta explained that the new program is not limited to gamedays only. “We will make sure we support student’s nutritional needs during everyday workouts and practice. Consistency is key,” he said.

As always, GHS welcomes donations and contributions for the success of endeavors implemented for students. The community is encouraged to support the nutritional program for the athletes. To donate money or food, such as fruit, snacks, or Powerade/Gatorade, contact Greenville High School at (334) 382-2608.