Eagles cook up new style in practice facility cafeteria
New coaches typically make changes to the ways their new teams operate, but usually those changes come on the field. In Philadelphia, new Eagles coach Chip Kelly is switching things up both on the field and off it, as he revamped the menu and design of the Eagles’ cafeteria at their practice facility in an effort to get the team eating healthier.
Kelly, the former Oregon Ducks head coach who was hired by the Eagles in January to replace former coach Andy Reid, has entirely revamped the nutritional policy for Philadelphia players. According to ESPN sportscaster Jeannine Edwards, Kelly instituted four main food stations in the cafeteria with a sign over each explaining the type of food offered and what aspect of athletics the offerings benefit. For example, there is a lean protein station in order to help players with muscle growth and repair. This way, players are aware not only of what they are eating, but why as well.
One of 4 signs in #Eagles‘ revamped cafeteria, explaining main food groups and what they do. #NoFastFood twitter.com/jeanninee12/st…
— jeannine edwards (@jeanninee12) May 13, 2013
Along with re-designing the facility, Kelly trashed old team traditions such as the much beloved “Taco Tuesdays” and “Fast Food Fridays” while also getting rid of pizza, chicken wings, fried food, red meat and other junk food items.
Kelly also has his players drinking customized protein shakes and allowed the players to choose their flavors.
And while nutrition alone will not win the Eagles a Super Bowl, it sure seems like a good way to get better performances out of players. If nothing else, maybe it will help keep more players in shape and therefore off the IR.
What do you think of Chip Kelly’s nutrition plan? Is it important to regulate players’ nutrition so strongly? How much will it affect the team during the season? Let us know in the comments below.
