MAN v FAT has supported people from all backgrounds since it got started and both in the UK and the USA, we continue to meet some incredible men who are out to change their lives for the better.
In both of those communities, we’re aware of many of our members who have strong associations to the Armed Forces and, on this year’s Veterans Day in the USA, we caught up with Oliver Cunningham who plays in our Mount Laurel league.
Oliver’s experience with MAN v FAT has proven vital to his association with the Army Reserve and he told us all about it.
Tell us a bit more about you and your background
I’m 43 years old, married to a wonderful wife, and together we have 4 children; 2 girls and 2 boys, who keep us very busy!
My wife and I are both Army veterans, but I continue to serve part-time in the Army Reserve. I’m currently a Master Sergeant with over 16 years of military service, including 1 overseas tour. When I’m not serving my country, I work as a heavy equipment operator in my civilian career.
Between military service, work, and raising four children, life can get pretty hectic, so finding the right balance between family, career, and personal health has always been important to me.
What made you join MAN v FAT in the first place?
I wanted to lose weight but also wanted to find something different that won’t put too much pressure or commitment on the family’s already crazy calendar, like in the evenings and with a group that hold each other accountable.
I’ve played soccer throughout my youth, all the way through high school then stopped at College. I participated in a few corporate leagues when I started my career so when I discovered MAN v FAT, it felt like the perfect opportunity to return to a sport I love while working toward my weight-loss goals.
It offered the best of both worlds: getting back on the turf, improving my fitness, and being part of a group of men who could hold each other accountable along the way.
What has your connection to the Army been over recent years?
The Army has played a significant role in shaping who my wife and I are today. Although we’ve both served, I continue to serve in the Army Reserve, and the values we developed through our military experiences remain a big part of our lives.
Values such as discipline, integrity, selfless service, and commitment extend far beyond the uniform. We see their positive impact in how we raise our children, support one another as a family, and contribute to our community. For us, service isn’t just about what we do in the military; it’s also about how we show up for the people around us.
What is it about the MAN v FAT program that has worked for you in achieving your weight-loss goals?
For me, it’s the combination of convenience, accountability, and the way the program incorporates soccer into the weight-loss journey.
I find the program start time works perfectly fine most nights and the weigh-ins are another important part of the process because they keep me honest and accountable for my progress. I also really appreciate that MAN v FAT gives you opportunities to contribute to your team’s success beyond just your performance on the field. Even if your soccer skills aren’t quite where you’d like them to be, your weight-loss progress can still make a meaningful contribution to the team’s standings.
That approach keeps everyone involved and reinforces the idea that we’re all working toward something bigger than ourselves.
How important has the community spirit been as part of that?
Oh, man, the community has been great! The group at Mount Laurel is competitive, but it’s all in good fun. It’s a welcoming, judgment-free environment where everyone can feel comfortable working toward their goals.
What stands out most to me is how willing everyone is to help each other. Whether it’s explaining how the program works, communicating in the group chat, or encouraging each other throughout the season, there’s a genuine sense of camaraderie that makes you look forward to the next game.
We’ve even connected with other MAN v FAT locations, including Cherry Hill, and had the opportunity to represent South Jersey at the MAN v FAT tournament at Randall’s Island in New York this past summer. That was a fantastic experience!
Honestly, MAN v FAT has made me feel young again. At 43, I never imagined I’d be participating in a soccer tournament, but there I was, back on the turf in a jersey with my last name on it and enjoying every minute of it.
The best part is seeing how the weight loss and improvements in my fitness translate into better performances on the field. As I become fitter, I feel my game improving, and that motivates me to keep pushing myself.
What started as an effort to lose weight has grown into something much bigger. I’ve become more conscious of my health, taken my diet more seriously, and started tracking my physical activity. The support and competition have helped me build momentum and make healthier choices beyond game night.
What does your weight-loss success mean for your next steps in the Army?
My weight-loss success has been especially important for my continued military career.
Earlier this summer, the Army introduced a new body-composition assessment standard based on waist-to-height measurements. I fell below the required standard and barely made the cut, and let me tell you, when a Soldier fails to meet the Army’s body-composition requirements and failing to demonstrate the necessary improvement, it can have serious consequences for a Soldier’s career. So I decide to lock-in and get my mind right first then find a program and stick to it!
To be fair to the Army, there are several free weight-loss, nutrition, and fitness resources available to Soldiers. However, finding a program that fits your individual circumstances and schedule is just as important as having access to those resources.
For me, MAN v FAT has been an excellent solution. Having a location just 10 minutes from my home, combined with the accountability, team environment, and opportunity to play soccer, made it easier to commit to the process and stay consistent.
This weight loss has helped me get where I need to be to meet the Army’s standards, and my plan is to maintain that progress. As a senior non-commissioned officer, I understand the importance of leading by example. Taking care of my own health helps me remain ready to serve, continue my military career, and set a positive example for the Soldiers I lead.
