I am a middle school teacher in the Bronx looking to provide my students with more opportunities to connect with community! Sometimes these experiences cost money beyond our school budget. As you may know, many schools are facing budget cuts and loss of funding for some programs.

I want the Girls’ Basketball team at my school to participate in the “Hydration Heroes” workshop given by Smiling Bellies.

Smiling Bellies is a holistic health coaching practice run by certified holistic health coach Brittany Wallace, who was born and raised in the Bronx and who played women’s basketball in college (won a NCAA Championship) and professionally overseas.

Not only will the Lady Lions get to connect with Brittany through her valuable knowledge of the game, but they will also learn about the importance of health and wellness in sports! This is not a topic focused on in youth sports yet it is crucial in how young athletes progress, perform, and heal.

The cost of a Hydration Heroes workshop is $500 for 20 girls. It is a nutritional workshop where young student-athletes discover the power of hydration and how it keeps their bodies strong, minds sharp, and energy high for every game, practice, and school day.

Through interactive activities, visuals, and simple science, students will learn:

• Why water is the body’s best teammate

• How dehydration can make them feel tired, dizzy, or lose focus

• When and how much to drink before, during, and after activity

• How foods like fruits and veggies help keep the body hydrated too

• Smart swaps for sugary drinks and colorful sports beverages

The workshop would last approximately 1 hour and will be scheduled for November or December of 2025.