MAN v FAT Soccer operates in five states currently, with a sixth to follow with the launch of California in September. But what’s involved?
We’re following a host of our members in their first season with MAN v FAT in their league, how they’re settling in and the early progress they’ve made on their weight loss and wellbeing journeys.
Here’s what they had to say!
Amgad Albukari, Katy
How are you settling into your MAN v FAT Soccer team and league?
It’s pretty good. I’ve been regaining my stamina and also learned a bit of skills from other players. We have very good team members – we share a lot with each other to keep everyone motivated to do more work. Even with the other teams we have fun and joke around after the games.
What have you enjoyed the most and what have you found the most challenging?
I’ve actually enjoyed the accountability that joining this has brought. I’ve gained and lost the same 10 pounds numerous times The most I have enjoyed is the actual matches, its been a while since I played soccer and ran like that.
The most challenging is the diet change, but it’s good to know that there are other people doing the same thing that you are.
How are the team starting to bond, on and off the field?
We have a very good bond. We play with each other every week outside MAN v FAT. We also share a lot in common.
What has been the biggest revelation or ‘Eureka!’ moment for you so far when it’s come to losing weight with MAN v FAT?
The key to losing weight depends on the macros. Intake doesn’t matter if you work out every day, as long as you eat properly you will lose weight. My first week I didn’t work out as much and I lost a couple of pounds, just because I was focusing on what I’m eating. On the third week I started working out and I dropped four pounds!
Javier Bray, Katy
How are you settling into your MAN v FAT Soccer team and league?
My team name is Porcinos FC, the guys welcome me with open arms and are very friendly, I try during the week to do some exercises and eat healthily.
What have you enjoyed the most and what have you found the most challenging?
I enjoy the camaraderie and that we play pick up games outside the program. The most challenging is the amount of food that I eat and the sweets!
How are the team starting to bond, on and off the field?
The team is super supportive, sometimes we go to eat after the games.
What has been the biggest revelation or ‘Eureka!’ moment for you so far when it’s come to losing weight with MAN v FAT?
It was when I reached my lowest point in weight – 203 pounds.
Joan Alvarenga, Carrollton Wednesdays
How are you settling into your MAN v FAT Soccer team and league?
I am settling in well with the team. The brotherhood is strong – we laugh through the pain together but we are doing well and encourage each other to keep going.
What have you enjoyed the most and what have you found the most challenging?
I have enjoyed everything so far – the fairness, the care that is shown on and off the pitch.
What I think was challenging was getting used to the rules but, once I got them memorized, I started having more fun.
How are the team starting to bond, on and off the field?
Every team we have encounteredm it has been all laughs and good competition. In my opinion, we get along with everybody.
What has been the biggest revelation or ‘Eureka!’ moment for you so far when it’s come to losing weight with MAN v FAT?
It’s the community. Once I started talking to the guys more and then started participating in the pick up games they have every week, it really has encouraged me to keep giving my best and take care of my health. Honestly, the way we push each other is nice reminder that we can do everything better once we help each other.
Jose Molina, West Houston
How are you settling into your MAN v FAT Soccer team and league?
Settling in well. We have ordered official kits! Rapport is building with the team and everyone is very supportive of each other which is great.
What have you enjoyed the most and what have you found the most challenging?
I enjoy getting to play! It’s my favorite sport. Challenging has been having a full team, and also getting thwacked on the pitch every week. After teams were set, we had some guys not join and so it’s been a struggle to have a full squad every week.
How are the team starting to bond, on and off the field?
Through our WhatsApp chat and playing Friday pick ups. I think it will grow as we get a more consistent squad (and out kits! Can you tell I’m excited about them?)
What has been the biggest revelation or ‘Eureka!’ moment for you so far when it’s come to losing weight with MAN v FAT?
Tracking is the key. That simple. Tracking is key. Every bite here and there adds up so make a plan stick to it and record it so you can see what you’re doing and it also for someone that can be a little OCD like me gives you a visual reference point and target which is highly effective.
Stephen Arbour, Elkins Park
How are you settling into your MAN v FAT Soccer team and league?
It’s been a short learning curve as the league is ramping up. Making new friends and sweating together has been great!
What have you enjoyed the most and what have you found the most challenging?
I’m loving that we’ve taken the time to get know each other better. Even though we’re all coming in from different perspectives, we all share a love of the game!
The biggest challenge for me has been staying accountable with food tracking. While I always lose weight when I do it diligently, I find it a hard habit to keep.
How are the team starting to bond, on and off the field?
My team is awesome! All these guys are open, supportive, and interesting. We’re getting together for pick up games on Sundays and that’s been a great way to hang out and get fit.
What has been the biggest revelation or ‘Eureka!’ moment for you so far when it’s come to losing weight with MAN v FAT?
The weekly weigh ins are keeping me accountable and that is helping me tremendously. Knowing that I can help my team just by tracking meals is a motivator.
Want to join the guys in action?
You can check out all of our current MAN v FAT Soccer locations by visiting www.manvfatsoccer.com!
We’ve got several more stories to tell over the next few days – and we’ll be back in touch with the guys in a couple of weeks’ time!
