Athletes look to keep healthy
Recovery is a major part of how successful a program and athlete can be.
If an athlete’s body and mind are not at their best, they cannot play at their best. The university has many outlets for its athletes to recover and get to optimal health.
Victor Smith is a sophomore football player for the Javelinas and plays on the stout defensive line that has helped the team to their 7-1 record.
He played at Lakeview Centennial High School and went to West Texas A&M before transferring to Texas A&M-Kingsville (TAMUK).
“I take a nap for at least an hour after practice or workouts. I also refuel with chocolate milk,” Smith said about how he recovers. “If I am just stressed and need to get homework done, I will not take that hour nap and use that hour to get some work done.”
While some people may not do a lot of recovery to get back to full strength, some go to greater lengths to make sure their body is in top shape and ready for the next day.
Kerry North is fresh out of high school and is a true freshman for the Javelina football team. This is his first year at TAMUK and he is redshirting to keep a year of eligibility.
“I usually drink a protein shake right after practice or weights. I also drink a lot of water throughout the day, and stretch right before I go to sleep to get my soreness out,” North said. “I sometimes drink another protein shake and stretch more if I am feeling more sore than normal.”
Every athlete’s body is different and college athletes know what works for them. They have been playing their sport at a high level for a long time and know how to maintain their peak physical performance.
James Hester is a redshirt freshman for the Javelinas and plays the tight end position. He has been at TAMUK since last year and came from Hendrickson High School.
“It really just depends on how I am feeling that day. I have some things I do every day like eating a lot of meals, drinking a lot of water and getting a good night’s sleep,” Hester said, “but I also pay attention to my body, and if I feel banged up, I will go to the training room to get treatment, or do a little extra such as stretching.”