Healthy tips from former Socceroo

Former Socceroo and Melbourne Victory player Archie Thompson and Maidstone United junior club president Marlon Pereira joined junior player Angus Robinson on Thursday, August 18 to launch the Vic Kids Eat Well movement. (Supplied)

By Matthew Sims

Former Socceroo player Archie Thompson discussed the importance of eating and drinking healthy foods and drink, during a visit to the Maidstone United Soccer Club to launch the Vic Kids Eat movement within the club.

During a special event on Thursday, August 18, the former Melbourne Victory player talked to the club’s players and their parents about his insights into healthy eating and sports.

Vic Kids Eat Well has supported sports clubs, schools, out-of-school hours care and community organisations to boost healthy food and drink options to give every child a healthy start.

Junior club president Marlon Pereira said the club had been integrating healthier food options, such as a fresh food game-day spit and salad.

“We’re delighted that an elite player like Archie Thompson could join us for our club dinner and share his insights into healthy eating and on-field performance,” he said.

“By offering healthier food and drink options at games and our regular weekly dinner, we can promote positive health and wellbeing to all our members.

“The simple steps and healthy swaps that we can do with Vic Kids Eat Well fits the bill perfectly and will help fuel our kids to be their best on and off the sporting field.”

cohealth health promotion officer Zoe Cetinich said cohealth would support the club in its efforts to provide healthy food and drink.

“cohealth is looking forward to helping Maidstone United SC kick some healthy eating goals as it progresses through Vic Kids Eat Well,” she said.

“They’ve already made some healthy changes that include saying goodbye to the deep fryer and changing up the menu for weekly dinners with healthy meals that celebrate the club’s diverse culture.

“I’m also working with them to reduce sugary drinks sold in their canteen and promote water as the ultimate sports drink.”

Details: vickidseatwell.health.vic.gov.au