Pre-Game Meals
- There is no universal pre-game meal plan — nutrition is individualized and context-dependent for goaltenders.
- Personal food preference matters on game day because mental preparation starts with enjoying what you eat.
- Former pro goalie Jamie Phillips recommends building pre-game meals around scientifically backed principles rather than copying someone else's routine.
- Four key factors should guide every goaltender's pre-game meal decisions, including personal preference as a foundational element.
- Consult a qualified sports performance specialist — like a kinesiology-trained coach — to develop a pre-game nutrition plan tailored to your body and schedule.
InGoal is pleased to welcome Jamie Phillips, as he shares his knowledge in nutrition and training with InGoal Members. Also look for him on the InGoal Radio Podcast where he joined us for a feature interview.
Jamie is a former professional goaltender who played in Europe, the ECHL and AHL after an NCAA career at Michigan Tech where he now serves as goaltending coach. He has completed both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Kinesiology and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy. Phillips began Phillips Sports Performance with one goal in mind, to help athletes perform at their best each and every day through scientifically backed programming in both nutrition and off ice training. He can be reached via DM on his Instagram page @phillipssportsperformance
Chicken or pork? Steak or salmon? Marinara or alfredo? What on Earth do I eat before a game?
When I scroll through my emails and DM’s, the question about pre-game meals is easily the most frequently asked. My answer is almost always underwhelming, “it depends.” I wish I could write a blanket meal plan that works for every athlete 100% of the time but unfortunately, that is not the reality of nutrition or life. Since you, the eager reader, are taking the time to read this, I want to outline the four most important factors that I believe should be considered when coming up with a pre-game meal so you can find some value in this article.
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Looking for some pre-game meal guidance? Download a free recipe.
For more recipes, training information and to learn about working with Jamie please visit Phillips Sports Performance. He can also be reached via DM on his Instagram page @phillipssportsperformance
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