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'I don't even recognise myself anymore'

The UK is facing what charities are calling an eating disorder epidemic, with an estimated 1.25 million people affected. These conditions have the highest mortality rate of any mental health illness, making early intervention and education urgent. Yet, within the world of sport, eating disorders often go undetected and unchallenged. Disordered behaviour, such as restricting […]

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'I don't even recognise myself anymore'

The UK is facing what charities are calling an eating disorder epidemic, with an estimated 1.25 million people affected. These conditions have the highest mortality rate of any mental health illness, making early intervention and education urgent.

Yet, within the world of sport, eating disorders often go undetected and unchallenged. Disordered behaviour, such as restricting food intake, purging, binge eating, or abusing laxatives, are sometimes normalised in competitive environments, embedded into routines and disguised as dedication.

Eating disorders thrive in silence. They’re secretive, isolating and can affect athletes of all genders, ages and backgrounds, whether at grassroots or elite levels.

In sport, several factors can trigger or worsen disordered behaviour: pressure to perform, body dissatisfaction, weight-category requirements and cultural ideals of what an “athletic” body should look like.

In this context, harmful practices like dehydration, extreme weight-cutting and overtraining often become accepted – and are sometimes even encouraged.




Read more:
How fighters make weight in combat sports – and regain it for the match


In some sports, the risks are tragically clear. Take bodybuilding. One heartbreaking example is 20-year-old Jodi Vance, who died from heart failure caused by dehydration during preparations for a competition.

In combat sports and martial arts, eating disorders are frequently acknowledged, yet meaningful solutions are rarely discussed. Fighters like Paige VanZant and Kay Hansen have openly shared their struggles with disordered eating, which in many sports, is still dismissed as just “part of the process”.

Extreme tactics

Even worse, some coaches perpetuate a toxic culture by fat-shaming athletes or joking about serious conditions like bulimia. In such environments, young athletes can become trapped in cycles of physical and emotional harm.

In my own research with UK-based mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters, I spent months observing and interviewing athletes across various gyms. Many described extreme weight-loss tactics before fights – dropping both fat and water weight in dangerously short time frames. These methods took a toll on both their bodies and mental health.

I witnessed fighters collapse from exhaustion and dehydration. I heard coaches make jokes about eating disorders. One fighter told me: “I don’t even recognise myself anymore,” echoing the public experiences of UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett, who has shared his struggles with binge eating and body image.

These stories hit close to home.

During my own time in MMA, I developed atypical anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder. I was praised for rapid weight loss – not for my skill or performance. At one point, I was training to the point of experiencing heart palpitations, dizziness and nausea. Yet, these symptoms were brushed off as signs of “good training”.

Eating disorders don’t discriminate

Even when I lived in a larger body, I was still suffering from an eating disorder. This is a crucial reminder: you cannot tell if someone is unwell just by looking at them. This isn’t just an issue in fight sports. Disordered eating affects athletes across many disciplines.

Footballer Katrina Gorry, cricketer Freddy Flintoff and cyclist Davide Cimolai are just a few high-profile athletes who have spoken publicly about their experiences.

In fact, disordered thoughts can affect athletes at any stage of their careers. Today, even after competing internationally in American football and Australian rules football, I still live with disordered thinking around food and body image.

Elite female athletes can be particularly vulnerable. According to the 2023 female athlete health report, 74% of respondents said they didn’t feel like they looked like an athlete and 91% worried about their calorie intake.

The 2024 BBC study on elite British sportswomen found similar results, reflecting the persistent pressure to conform to narrow body ideals.




Read more:
Elite female athletes at greater risk of eating disorders


There have been some encouraging policy changes. In MMA, emergency rules now ban extreme weight-cutting methods like IV rehydration, where fluids and electrolytes are administered directly into a vein, bypassing the digestive system. British Gymnastics, the body governing competitive gymnastics in the UK, has banned coaches from weighing athletes – a major move given the sport’s documented issues.

However, these steps are just the beginning. Power imbalances still exist across many sports, where coaches wield enormous influence over an athlete’s health, body and sense of self.

Coaches can either be a force for recovery – or part of the problem. They must be better trained to spot early signs of disordered behaviour, provide support and promote a culture that values mental wellbeing over appearance.

To create safer sporting environments, we need better signposting for athletes on how to get help, education for coaches and staff on eating disorder awareness, a cultural shift from bodily perfection and towards sustainable performance and health and athlete-first policies that protect both physical and mental wellbeing.

Recovery is possible. But prevention – through awareness, education and empathy – can save lives long before treatment is ever needed.

Sport should be a place for strength, growth and resilience – not hidden harm.

If anything in this article causes distress or concern about eating disorders, visit the BEAT website for more information and support.

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Franciscan Sisters pledge $2 million to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse

The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (FSPA) have pledged $2 million to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse. HOLMEN, Wis. (WXOW) – The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (FSPA) have pledged $2 million to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse.  The investment will be distributed over the next […]

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Franciscan Sisters pledge $2 million to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse


The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (FSPA) have pledged $2 million to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse.


HOLMEN, Wis. (WXOW) – The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (FSPA) have pledged $2 million to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse. 

The investment will be distributed over the next two years and is aimed at helping the organization meet the long-term needs of local youth.







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Club leaders say the funds will strengthen their financial foundation and ensure continued access to critical services.

“Support like this is going to help make sure that we can sustain what’s been built, continue to grow, and continue to serve more kids in this community,” CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse Jake Erickson said. “We are just looking at what are some upcoming gaps and how can we make sure that our services are at the same level they are today—but then continue to grow as the needs of the community and as the needs of kids grow.”







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The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse serve nearly 4,500 young people annually through programs focused on mentorship, academic and athletic enrichment, food security, mental health and wellness support, and life skills training.

FSPA President Sue Ernster said the donation reflects the values both organizations share.

“They do not exclude anyone… So that there are opportunities and they can disrupt the current systems of injustice and break down some of the barriers that are inherent in our society,” Ernster said. “They meet them where they’re at. They don’t expect them to be something more.”







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Club officials hope the pledge encourages others in the community to give. Donations can be made here

Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration pledges $2 million to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse

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AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex

Cebu’s sports and wellness landscape is set for a significant transformation with the opening of the Magnum Sports Complex on July 17, 2025. Magnum Sports Complex stands as the ultimate destination, meticulously designed to cater to everyone from the seasoned athlete to the casual player and wellness enthusiast. Developed by the AWG Group of Companies, […]

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AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex

Cebu’s sports and wellness landscape is set for a significant transformation with the opening of the Magnum Sports Complex on July 17, 2025.

Magnum Sports Complex stands as the ultimate destination, meticulously designed to cater to everyone from the seasoned athlete to the casual player and wellness enthusiast.

Developed by the AWG Group of Companies, this ₱300 million, 1.5-hectare, 3-story facility strategically located on San Miguel Road, Apas —just a short distance from the bustling IT Park—is poised to become Cebu’s comprehensive hub for both recreational activities and serious athletic pursuits.

A vision realized: power, presence, and purpose

AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex: Cebu's game-changing hub for health & athletics

The opening of Magnum Sports Complex was a testament to community spirit, drawing support from personnel, distinguished guests, and leaders across Cebu’s diverse sports communities. Spearheaded by Atty. Augusto W. Go and Elizabeth Gan-Go, the event showcased the complex’s extensive array of state-of-the-art facilities, meticulously designed to ignite the passion of every sports enthusiast and fitness lover.

The name “Magnum” was a deliberate choice, resonating with power, presence, and purpose. It encapsulates the complex’s ambition to be a central hub for sports, fostering passion, discipline, and a strong sense of community. Atty. Go highlighted the urgent need for such a facility in Cebu, stating with conviction, “Cebu needs something like this.” 

Your ultimate sports and wellness destination

AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex: Cebu's game-changing hub for health & athletics

Atty. Augusto W. Go

Magnum Sports Complex stands as the ultimate destination, meticulously designed to cater to everyone from the seasoned athlete to the casual player and wellness enthusiast. This state-of-the-art facility boasts an impressive and diverse range of amenities, ensuring that every passion and pursuit is addressed with top-tier equipment and premium materials.

  • A Haven for Team Sports: For those who thrive in team environments, Magnum Sports Complex offers an exceptional lineup. The tennis court features premium Tiger Turf Elite grass from New Zealand, providing a world-class playing surface. Basketball enthusiasts will appreciate the FIBA-standard indoor courts, while volleyball courts, pickleball courts, and six dedicated badminton courts round out the extensive offerings for group play.
  • Dedicated Spaces for Individual Pursuits: Individuals seeking focused practice or leisurely activity will find their niche here. The complex provides dedicated spaces for table tennis, an indoor archery range for precision training, and billiard tables for a classic game.
  • Elevating Wellness and Training: Magnum Sports Complex is equally committed to holistic well-being and advanced training. A serene yoga studio offers a tranquil space for mindfulness and flexibility, while a dedicated martial arts studio caters to various disciplines. The innovative tennis simulator provides an immersive training experience, and a fully equipped wellness gym supports all fitness goals, making it an ideal environment for enhancing physical and mental health.

 
 

Beyond the sports facilities, the complex also includes food kiosks and ample parking for over 100 vehicles, ensuring convenience for all visitors. Its spacious design also allows for the future hosting of special events, with the basketball court bleachers alone accommodating up to 200 people.

Catering to demand and charting the future

AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex: Cebu's game-changing hub for health & athletics

Elizabeth Gan-Go and Dondon Hontiveros

Recognizing the unique needs of surrounding BPO companies in IT Park, Elizabeth Gan-Go revealed plans for 24-hour operation, noting that BPO employees often prioritize fitness during early morning hours. This commitment underscores the AWG Group’s dedication to fostering a healthier future for everyone.

 

Looking ahead, Gan-Go shared that the AWG Group is already eyeing a property in Lapu-Lapu for another potential sports facility. She also expressed openness to Magnum Sports Complex hosting larger events, such as the Palarong Pambansa, should the facility meet the necessary qualifications. 

The opening of Magnum Sports Complex marks a significant milestone for Cebu. This cutting-edge facility, already boasting numerous state-of-the-art amenities, continues its development to further enhance its offerings and solidify its vision as a dynamic sports hub. It’s poised to elevate the region’s sports infrastructure and actively promote a healthier, more dynamic lifestyle for residents, becoming an integral force in shaping Cebu’s vibrant future.

It’s game on, Cebu!

Book your court by calling 032 272 0325 / 032 272 8269 / 0915 451 2097. You may also email [email protected]. You may also follow Magnum Sports Complex on Facebook.

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Addie Rochelle's Inspiring Comeback After Spinal Fusion

Addie Rochelle’s journey illustrates resilience following a serious spinal surgery. Diagnosed with scoliosis in June 2021 during a routine sports physical, she underwent spinal fusion surgery. The process not only tested her physical capabilities but also her mental strength and determination. Rochelle focuses on recovery and growth, viewing her journey as a series of positive […]

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Addie Rochelle's Inspiring Comeback After Spinal Fusion

Addie Rochelle’s journey illustrates resilience following a serious spinal surgery. Diagnosed with scoliosis in June 2021 during a routine sports physical, she underwent spinal fusion surgery. The process not only tested her physical capabilities but also her mental strength and determination. Rochelle focuses on recovery and growth, viewing her journey as a series of positive steps rather than setbacks.

By the Numbers

  • Addie Rochelle was diagnosed with scoliosis during a standard sports physical in June 2021.
  • She underwent spinal fusion surgery, emphasizing the significance of her recovery journey.

Yes, But

While Rochelle’s story is primarily one of triumph, the challenges of recovery and rehabilitation from such a major surgery highlight the potential risks that could deter some young athletes.

State of Play

  • Rochelle’s current focus is on her rehabilitation and returning to competitive play.
  • Her experience is inspiring others in the sport dealing with similar challenges.

What’s Next

Looking ahead, Rochelle may serve as a motivational figure in athletic circles, potentially speaking out on mental health and recovery from injury, influencing both peers and younger athletes.

Bottom Line

Addie Rochelle’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength required to overcome adversity, highlighting the importance of mental resilience alongside physical recovery in sports.

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Health

Sports leagues shouldn't rewrite history of transgender athletes who set records

Many have called for achievements of transgender athletes participating in female sports to be erased from league records. While I believe that sports leagues have the right to prohibit biological males from participating in female events, the records already set by such individuals should remain on the books for two reasons. First, I believe it […]

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Sports leagues shouldn't rewrite history of transgender athletes who set records

Many have called for achievements of transgender athletes participating in female sports to be erased from league records.

While I believe that sports leagues have the right to prohibit biological males from participating in female events, the records already set by such individuals should remain on the books for two reasons. First, I believe it makes the leagues look worse for essentially trying to rewrite history instead of just accepting that the process isn’t perfect. Many other cases could be made for a lack of fairness in competitive sporting events, and rising to the top involves both skill and luck.

Second, and more importantly, it sets a dangerous precedent. What if a record-holding athlete made an allegedly bigoted comment and then a faction called for that person’s records to be taken off the books because of that?

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Record keeping should not be politicized. Sports records should be set on the field, not in the courtroom. Such records that go on the books should stay on the books. Removing them is never justified.

Anthony Gerlach, Menomonee Falls

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Sports records shouldn’t be politicized against transgender | Letters

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Saturday Special

Today, we’re bringing you the best from the KUOW Newsroom… Travis Decker, a Wenatchee resident and military veteran, is accused of killing his three young daughters outside Wenatchee.  Veterans in the Wenatchee Valley are asking for increased mental health services, to prevent the next tragedy. The small town of Quilcene, tucked away in the Olympic […]

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Saturday Special

Today, we’re bringing you the best from the KUOW Newsroom…

Travis Decker, a Wenatchee resident and military veteran, is accused of killing his three young daughters outside Wenatchee. 

Veterans in the Wenatchee Valley are asking for increased mental health services, to prevent the next tragedy.

The small town of Quilcene, tucked away in the Olympic Peninsula, is being divided by national politics. 

Quilcene is the first school district in Washington to ban trans athletes – even though there are no trans athletes trying to compete.

And for a lot of families, day camps provide critical summer childcare for parents, and a chance for kids to play outdoors and learn new skills. 

But for kids with disabilities, welcoming day camps can be hard to find around Seattle.

We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed.

Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.

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