Gillie, Al-Awadi and Other Student-Athletes Face Challenges During 30-Day Ramadan Observance

To some, Sunday, March 10 simply means we lose an hour of sleep, but we know our days will grow longer with the coming of daylight savings time. To others, March 10 marks the start of a 30-day spiritual journey coupled with fasting, prayer and an increased relationship with their faith.

Observed by Muslims worldwide, Ramadan runs for 30 days and those who observe will not eat or drink anything, including water, from dawn to sunset.

This practice of one's faith can create challenges related to sports performance. The nutrition and hydration requirements of student-athletes are much higher than those of a non-athlete. The inability to effectively provide the body with proper nutrition and hydration levels can cause several physiological consequences.

Ball State football started spring practices last week before taking a quick intermission for spring break, but they begin again on Monday, March 11. Two current Ball State football players, Yaser Al-Awadi and Malcolm Gillie, along with a few Ball State student-athletes in other sports, will observe Ramadan this year.

"Ramadan means a lot to me" said Gillie, a returning wide receiver from the 2023 season. "More than fasting, being able to grow my relationship with Allah and teach myself discipline throughout these 30 days is a wonderful experience."

Al-Awadi, a transfer addition to the Cardinals this semester from Western Illinois, adds, "Ramadan is a time to practice self-discipline and self-control. Fasting is a way to cleanse the soul and have empathy for those less fortunate."

In an effort to combat some of the physiological challenges these athletes face from a sports performance standpoint, they have been working closely with Ball State's strength and conditioning staff, including sports dietician, Jordan Jennewine. They have collaborated with these student-athletes for several weeks and will continue to work closely with them as they progress throughout the spring to prioritize their health and safety.

"The sports performance support team consisting of trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, plus mental wellness staff and nutritionists have been discussing ways to support practicing student-athletes over the past month," said Associate Athletic Director Lindsey Blom. "From nutrition plans to training options, we look forward to helping our student-athletes balance their faith with their performance goals."

Ball State conducts its annual spring football game on Saturday, April 6. The Cardinals kickoff the fall season at home against Missouri State on Saturday, September 7.

Gillie, Al-Awadi and Other Student-Athletes Face Challenges During 30-Day Ramadan Observance

Players Mentioned

Yaser Al-Awadi

Malcolm Gillie

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