“Grown in America: Play Fueled by Peanuts” is a nationwide campaign that shines a spotlight on the rising stars of soccer – young athletes from across the country who are putting in the work, powering their performance, and doing it all with fuel that’s as American as the game is global: peanuts.

As part of The18’s campus tour with the National Peanut Board, we’re connecting with college players to hear their stories, get their takes on the sport, and find out how they stay game-day ready. 

“Grown in America: Play Fueled by Peanuts” is a nationwide campaign that shines a spotlight on the rising stars of soccer – young athletes from across the country who are putting in the work, powering their performance, and doing it all with fuel that’s as American as the game is global: peanuts.

As part of The18’s campus tour with the National Peanut Board, we’re connecting with college players to hear their stories, get their takes on the sport, and find out how they stay game-day ready. 

Representing the United States is arguably the greatest honor for an American athlete regardless of the sport. Women’s wrestling superstar Helen Maroulis, with a gold medal in 2016 and a bronze in 2020, stands as a seasoned champion. Rising soccer star Cade Cowell, on the other hand, is part of the next generation of soccer players ready to make his mark.

Despite the differences in their sports – wrestling and soccer – Helen and Cade are united by a passion for competition, love of country, and a focused approach to fueling performance.

The jump from college soccer to the professional level is a steep challenge few players are capable of surmounting. 23-year-old aspiring defensive talent Femi Awodesu is a prime example of a determined player looking to rise his way to the top.

Awodesu is a star defender from Philadelphia who excelled in his four years at Penn State. He dominated in his final seasons in 2022 and 2023 being named the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year and one of the best in the college landscape.

A holiday season done right celebrates the greatest aspects of family, food and relaxation, but we all know that an excess of any of those three things can negatively impact our mind and body (sorry Aunt Linda!). 

It’s important to keep things in perspective. Your health or diet isn’t going to be completely sabotaged by one meal or even a handful of meals throughout the holiday season, and there’s no reason you can’t enjoy your favorite foods to mark these special occasions; the key is to find a balance that allows you to feel good afterward.