Young athletes need to be aware of the importance of good nutrition to athletic performance. A basic diet plan, worked out with a physician to satisfy energy and weight needs, is essential. The best eating schedule and amount and type of food varies with different sports depending on the intensity and duration of physical activity. Weight control programs for such high school sports as wrestling and football should be carefully monitored by school personnel, parents, and community physicians. Without such supervision, athletes may compound nutritional abuse with the use of anabolic steroids or diet supplements in dangerous quantities. Another risk to health and physical performance, especially among female athletes and adolescent boys, is iron deficiency. Athletes coming from lower income families are also at risk, since they may not receive the amount of food necessary for good physical and mental performance. Successful preparation for competition often depends on the pregame meal, which should feature low carbohydrate, low-fat foods taken about 2 to 3 hours before the game. (FG)