Club nutritionist Emma shares expert insight with local children for Nutrition and Hydration Week

Youngsters took part in a Premier League Kicks session with a juicy difference during Nutrition and Hydration Week.

Tottenham Hotspur Foundation delivers Premier League Kicks sessions – inspiring young people to reach their potential through football and social activity workshops – across Haringey, Enfield and surrounding London boroughs.

Tuesday’s session at New River Sports Centre saw children aged eight to 15 taste test smoothies donated by EXALT, the club’s sports nutrition drinks partner, and try making their own under the guidance and support of club head of nutrition Emma Tester.

In a Q&A with the group, Emma spoke to them about how she became involved in the world of nutrition, the importance of it and some of the foods players enjoy at Hotspur Way, such as rice, chicken and pasta.

She said: “They had a lot of questions and it was a good chance to give them some information about why the players eat the types of foods they do.

“Nutrition is fundamental for professional players, but it’s important for everyone to eat good quality food and make sure they’re well hydrated, to be able to function well in day-to-day life.

“The work the Foundation does, putting on free Premier League Kicks and other sessions across different areas of the community, with the opportunity for workshops like this on getting active, being healthy and improving people’s wellbeing, is really important.”

Julian, 11, said: “Today we learnt about nutrients and how water’s important. We also made our own smoothies and each got this drink from EXALT.”

Kyan, 10, added: “I’ve learnt nutritious foods like apples and berries are good for your brain and your eyesight, and make you feel faster.”

Omari Chambers-Alert, community development senior coordinator for the Foundation, said: “It was brilliant to have Emma join us today and bring some expertise for our participants to learn from. They were excited to ask her questions about player nutrition and it was good food for thought when they were making their own smoothies.

“These sessions are funded by the Premier League, through the Premier League Charitable Fund, and as well as giving youngsters the opportunity to engage in regular football sessions, it’s great to offer workshops like today’s and help make learning about important topics fun.”

Charlie Wilson-Vaughan, co-founder of EXALT, added: “We’re delighted to have played a small part in this fantastic event. There’s often a perception that fruit is boring, but we hope to help young people think differently about nutrition, and the power of whole foods and vitamins.”

To find out more about and register for the Foundation’s Premier League Kicks sessions email thf.activities@tottenhamhotspur.com.