By Matthew Sims
The Berwick Netball Club has received a healthier outlook on its future thanks to a $20,000 grant.
As part of the Woolworths Pick Fresh Play Fresh Netball Grants, the $20,000 grant would contribute to new bench seating, a nutritionist and more equipment.
Berwick Netball Club vice-captain Chloey Dodds said the grant would allow players to learn the best ways to stay active.
“It’s really good for our young players to learn how to be active,” she said.
“It teaches them leadership skills as well.”
Healthylife chief health officer and accredited practising dietitian Simone Austin said eating healthy was the foundation of excelling in any sport.
“Healthy eating will provide energy to fuel you and help your body recover for the next session so you can perform at your best again and again,” he said.
“Having enough nutrients such as protein allows your body to repair tissues, bones and muscles, and grow muscle for those who need and want to.
“Having all the vitamins and minerals again for repair and to support your immune system that can be under stress for those exercising regularly and at high intensity.”
Ms Austin said there were a number of healthy alternatives for people of all ages to consider.
“Always look at ways to choose quality carbohydrates such as brown rice, whole grain bread, potatoes, corn, oats and other wholegrain cereals,” she said.
“Add vegies at meals and snacks, like hummus with cut up cucumber, carrots and some wholegrain crackers before training.
“Take a snack to training if it is going to be a long session or a gap between finishing training and your next meal, such as a sandwich, a tub of yoghurt, a handful of nuts and dried fruit, fresh fruit or a milk drink.”
Woolworths NetSetGO ambassador and former Australian Diamonds player Catherine Cox said keeping a healthy balance was the key to any physical endeavour.
“You have to fuel your body the right way to get the best out of it,” she said.
“A balanced diet is always the best approach, but if you are regularly active, you can most certainly enjoy a small treat guilt free from time to time.”
Ms Cox said there were always various options in terms of how to put together each meal of the day.
“I love making a big tub of healthy Bircher for the week as a quick go to brekky,” she said.
“Eggs are my other go-to, poached with a slice of soy and linseed toast, with spinach and roasted cherry tomatoes, often for lunch – easy, filling and delicious!”
For more information about the grants, visit pickfreshplayfresh.netball.com.au
