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Presenter: Emma Heintz

Faculty Sponsor: Mariana Calle

School: Worcester State University

Research Area: Nutrition

Session: Poster Session 4, 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM, 165, D2

ABSTRACT

Adequate nutrition is essential for enhancing performance, recovery and long term health in collegiate athletes.  Nutrition related issues can negatively impact student-athletes' health and peak physical condition. Most sports nutrition research focuses on NCAA Division I and II, while limited research exists in Division III populations. This cross-sectional study examined sports nutrition knowledge and dietary habits among Division III soccer players at Worcester State University (N=24), across all class years (64% male, 32% female, 4% transgender), ages 18-22, with 71% primarily residing on campus. Participants completed a nutrition knowledge survey and a female subgroup completed a three-day food record. While 87.5% of respondents indicated they felt confident in making healthy food choices, key soccer-specific nutrition topics, particularly hydration and carbohydrate intake, were among the least understood concepts. Correct answers on hydration topics were identified by 38% of participants. Carbohydrate knowledge was accurately determined by 61% of participants. Carbohydrates were inconsistently identified as the primary source of energy. Sufficient intake of antioxidants affects athletic performance, only 20% of participants knew that the recommendation for fruits and vegetables was 5 servings per day. These findings indicate discrepancies between perceived and actual nutrition knowledge, highlighting the need for targeted intervention for soccer players. Preliminary data from food records indicate that participants consumed approximately 32% less carbohydrates than recommended per day, based on body weight. Strong levels of motivation to improve and openness to nutrition education were indicated by 100% interest response in receiving personalized nutrition reports.