IN THE LIFE of an AFL player, you never stop learning and preparing.  This week, the boys were preparing- in the kitchen.  Ten players participated in a four week program with The Communal Kitchen which teachers the boys how to create meals in line with their dietary requirements.

It’s safe to say the boys’ competitiveness on the field is transferred to the kitchen with many of the players quick to back themselves in as the best cook.

As one of the more senior players in the group, Jake Spencer gave his fellow teammates some advice, “Follow his lead and they’ll be fine.”

Communal Kitchen Manager, Jasmine, said new recruit Jai Sheehan is renowned for his ‘good palate’ and therefore was promoted to judge the other groups meal.

Jack Watts, Josh Tynan and Lucas Cook anxiously waited as Sheehan deliberated over who had cooked the best chicken noodle soup.  After much suspense, Watts’ dish was crowned the winner.

Player Resource Manager Craig Lees said, “These classes given the boys the skills to prepare meals which complement their training work load. It’s important for them to learn about the balance of protein and carbohydrates and this has been an interactive and fun way for the boys to learn.”

Want to create some of the healthy recipes yourself? Here are the recipes:
-    Slow cooked beef stew
-    Roasted lamb with sweet potato mash and green beans
-    Chicken noodle soup
-    Healthy Indian chicken curry