<p> The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors that influence parents in selecting post-workout team snacks for children playing in an organized basketball program. Additionally, this study investigated parental perception of the current snack environment and explored how parents define &ldquo;healthy snack.&rdquo; Parents of children participating in the Orange Coast Optimist&rsquo;s youth basketball organization were eligible to participate. A survey containing closed and open-ended questions was created to answer research questions. Parents were recruited on site the day of their child&rsquo;s practice. A total of 99 survey responses were obtained. Commonly identified drivers for snack selectin included: health, convenience, child&rsquo;s snack preference, and cost. A majority of parents did not wish to see changes made to current team snacks. Parents often stated fruit was an acceptable snack, whereas snacks high in added sugar and/or contained common allergens should never be given. </p><p>

<p> The purpose of this directed project was to develop a nutrition education curriculum for competitive youth soccer players. This project is aimed to improve the nutrition knowledge deficit among female adolescents, thereby improving general health and athletic performance. This curriculum also considers the athletes&rsquo; familial dependence and provides nutrition resources to parents. </p><p> This is a five-part group and team education series designed to address the sport-, gender- and age-specific nutrition needs of the target population. Based on current research, adolescents perceive group education and discussion to be most useful. Each lesson includes handouts for reference and an interactive activity to enrich the educational experience. </p><p> An expert panel has reviewed this program and provided critical insight and recommendations for revisions. As verified by an expert review panel, this curriculum is evidence-based, current and applicable. This program was not pilot tested, but should be prior to implementation.</p>