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College and high school athletes in the Hampton Roads area are fortunate to rely on the expertise of Nicole Franqui, the sports dietitian at Sentara Leigh Orthopedic and Sports Performance.
I am currently working on developing a PowerPoint series with a focus on nutrition and sports performance to present to local universities and schools,” explains Nicole, who worked as an assistant sports dietitian at the University of California San Diego before coming to Sentara in 2021. “Our hope is to be able to do in-person presentations as well as having recordings to share with those not in Hampton Roads.”
Nicole, who has run three half marathons and has her blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, has always been interested in sports medicine but kept an open mind when pursuing a career in the field of nutrition to gain experience in all aspects.
“There are a variety of career paths and interests possible for dietitians,” says Nicole, who moved to Virginia Beach with her husband, Kevin Franqui, a Marine officer. “I can have an impact on patients whether they are in the inpatient or outpatient setting.”
Nicole typically starts her day at Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, meeting with patients in general surgery, orthopedic and cardiovascular units. She appreciates her colleagues’ flexibility and willingness to help, especially when the patient load is high.
“We do a great job with open communication and supporting each other during the week,” she adds.
As part of her dedication to sports medicine, Nicole passed the exam to become a board-certified specialist in sports dietetics this year. When she’s not at work, Nicole spends time with her husband and dogs, Oscar and Atlas. She also enjoys reading, weightlifting, running, hiking, walking and going to the beach.
College and high school athletes in the Hampton Roads area are fortunate to rely on the expertise of Nicole Franqui, the sports dietitian at Sentara Leigh Orthopedic and Sports Performance.
I am currently working on developing a PowerPoint series with a focus on nutrition and sports performance to present to local universities and schools,” explains Nicole, who worked as an assistant sports dietitian at the University of California San Diego before coming to Sentara in 2021. “Our hope is to be able to do in-person presentations as well as having recordings to share with those not in Hampton Roads.”
Nicole, who has run three half marathons and has her blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, has always been interested in sports medicine but kept an open mind when pursuing a career in the field of nutrition to gain experience in all aspects.
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