As a collegiate athlete, fueling your body for peak performance should be a concern when traveling for competitions. Food is fuel, and what you eat can easily affect how you perform on and off the field. Understanding nutrition regulations and options based on your division is crucial. If you've ever wondered if your coach is properly feeding you based on your level of play, you have landed on the right article.
Division l and ll – The Fine Print
In 2014 and 2015, the NCAA adopted a set of rules to ensure that athletes who play at the highest level receive top-notch nutrition. According to the legislation, Division I and Division II universities require that all student-athletes receive “unlimited meals and snacks in conjunction with their athletics participation.” This flexibility allows for tailored support to fit the needs of an individual and team.
For Division I and II athletes, these benefits can be shown in various forms, including, but are not limited to:
- Meal Plans: For some programs, universities provide on-campus dining that covers three meals per day for athletes, especially for those on scholarships. This is often provided during short trips where away games are close by.
- Travel provisions: For trips that have a longer duration, teams usually receive catered meals within their hotel, a restaurant, or a game-day location.
- Per diem: Your coach provides you with a set amount of money throughout your trip that allows you to choose your own meal and pay for your food. The usual locations include airports, shopping centers, or grocery stores.
Division III – The Difference in Divisions
Unlike Division I and II, Division III athletics currently lack regulations requiring coaches to provide food while traveling. This leaves it up to individual athletic departments to establish policies ensuring their athletes receive adequate care. Since most DIII schools have less funding, the benefits provided to the other divisions usually don't align. Athletes can be given meal plans, per diem, and have catered food, but it might not be at the same level, despite all athletes needing the same attention.
The Bottom Line
While there are no set rules on how much of your team's budget is spent on food or the frequency of your meals per day, if you find that you and your teammates lack proper fuel on the road, be sure to speak up. Discuss your concerns with your captains and coaches or directly speak with your athletic director. As student-athletes, your college is responsible for your well-being while traveling for a school-sanctioned activity; so hold the correct people responsible. Do not be afraid to stand up for yourself and advocate for your teammates.
Regardless of what division you play, all athletes are entitled to receive the correct sustenance to perform at their highest ability.
