Black Sports Supremacy Summary

Professional athletes are idolized by many because of their superior physical attributes, and their performances in their respective arena. To this day, many believe professional athletes were born with superior genes, and many would argue one’s genes predetermines the likelihood of an individual becoming a professional athlete. While genetics does play a role in one’s potential of becoming an elite athlete, research suggests nutrition, biomechanics, and mastering a sport specific technique are all major contributors to the development of a professional athlete. The contribution of one’s genetics should not be overlooked, however, to say people are born to be elite athletes is a fallacy.

Elite athletes reach superhuman levels, and perform

The journal article The Myth of Black Sports Supremacy written by Gary A. Sailes addresses the stereotypes, and furthermore discusses how said stereotypes are not true. For example, Sailes acknowledges that there are anatomical differences that could possibly provide African-Americans some advantages, however, Sailes explains how these advantages are insignificant unless they are fully developed through vigorous training and by participating in a nurturing and competitive environment that creates an opportunity for success (Sailes 485). In short, Sailes argues the competitive field is leveled, and athletic success yields to those who work for it. The Essay The Makings of the Perfect Athlete written by Yannis P. Pitsiladis discusses the physical build of athletes, particularly those of west/east Africa. Pitsiladis discusses why athletes from Western African perform well in short distance races, and why athletes from Eastern

Becoming a professional athlete requires a lot of training that oftentimes results in becoming fatigued. The article Sports Nutrition for Young Athletes written by Purcell, Laura K, discusses the importance of proper nutrition for aspiring athletes. Sports nutrition enhances athletic performances by decreasing fatigue and the risk of injury; it also enables athletes to optimize training and recover faster ( Purcell par.2). Purcell also explains the roles that macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates), and micronutrients (water, vitamins, and minerals) play, and explains why each are important for young athletes. Lastly, Purcell explains, An ideal diet comprises of 45 to 65% carbohydrates, 10% to 30% protein, and 25% to 35% fat ( Purcell par.18). The article Free-Sugar, Total-Sugar, Fibre, and Micronutrient Intake Within Elite Youth British Soccer Players: A Nutritional Transition From Schoolboy to Fulltime Soccer Player by Robert J. Naughton, Barry Drust, Andy O’Boyle, Julie Abayomi, Elizabeth Mahon, James P. Morton, and Ian G. Davies monitored the caloric intake from several players from different age groups within the youth academies of Premier League clubs, and compared the intakes of the several age groups. The purpose of the study was to compare the FS (free-sugar), dietary fiber, and micronutrient intake amongst 3 separate age groups in order to determine whether or not the young