Inside Nebraska’s Football Nutrition Program: Building a Brotherhood Through Food
Introduction:
When Marcus Satterfield recommended a nutritionist to Nebraska’s offensive coordinator, Matt Rhule’s interest was piqued. After reaching out to Kristin Coggin, the Huskers’ director of performance nutrition, Rhule was immediately impressed. Coggin, who previously worked at South Carolina, has become an integral part of the football program, creating specialized feeding plans for every player and educating them on nutrition.
The Best in the Business:
Coggin heads a team of five full-time nutritionists who work exclusively with the football program. Their task goes beyond creating feeding plans; they also educate athletes on food preparation and cooking. Coggin’s dedication to her job is evident in her early morning arrivals at work and her personal relationships with players and their families. According to Rhule, Coggin’s passion for her work is unmatched.
Expanding Relationships:
Coggin’s role extends beyond the players; she also tends to the nutrition needs of the coaching staff and their families. She ensures that everyone connected to the program has personalized eating plans and is aware of any food allergies. Her commitment to building relationships goes beyond the office, as she stays in touch with former players and even makes customized eating plans for Muslim players during Ramadan.
A Journey to Excellence:
Coggin’s journey to Nebraska was shaped by her mentors and experiences in the field of nutrition. After being diagnosed with Celiac disease in college, she saw firsthand how proper nutrition could enhance athletic performance. She worked with renowned nutritionists at Tennessee, USC, and Alabama, learning from the best in the business. Her focus on building relationships with players has been a driving force in her career.
Creating Connections:
Coggin’s impact on players goes beyond their time at Nebraska. She helps them discover new interests and skills, such as cooking, which can be valuable after their football careers end. Under Coggin’s direction, Nebraska has held cooking demonstrations and competitions, making food consumption fun and educational. Her goal is to make nutrition a lifelong habit for athletes.
Serious Business:
Division I athletes have demanding nutritional requirements, and Coggin ensures that these needs are met. She recommends specific meal plans for players, which include regular eating intervals and monitoring of water consumption. While some players may find the amount of food overwhelming, Coggin emphasizes the importance of consistency. She works closely with picky eaters like Riley Van Poppel, helping them overcome their challenges and develop healthier eating habits.
Building Trust:
Coggin’s dedication to her job has earned the trust and appreciation of players and their families. She goes above and beyond to ensure that athletes feel supported and cared for. Her involvement in recruiting visits and her commitment to communication with parents demonstrate her genuine concern for the well-being of the players. Coggin sees herself as a mother figure away from home, providing guidance and support.
A Team Effort:
Coggin collaborates with other staff members, such as strength and conditioning coaches, sports scientists, and player development personnel. They share data on players and work together to optimize their performance both on and off the field. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that every aspect of the players’ well-being is taken into account.
Conclusion:
Kristin Coggin’s role as Nebraska’s director of performance nutrition has had a profound impact on the football program. Through her expertise in nutrition and her dedication to building relationships, she has created a sense of unity among the players. Her focus on education and lifelong habits sets Nebraska’s football nutrition program apart from others. With Coggin at the helm, the Huskers have found a winning recipe for success.