The following is a piece written by Matt Miazga, a center back for FC Cincinnati. Mercy Health is the official health care provider of FC Cincinnati.
Hey FCC fans, it’s Matt Miazga. You usually see me giving everything I’ve got on the pitch, but off the field, one of my biggest passions might surprise you – my backyard garden. What started as a small side project has turned into a key part of my routine. It helps me reset, stay balanced and even gives me an edge when it’s time to perform.
My wife, Victoria, and I started our garden a few years ago after always talking about it. Now, there’s nothing better than walking outside and picking fresh vegetables we’ve grown ourselves. After a tough match or a demanding training session, spending time in the garden is the perfect way to recharge.
I’ve learned pretty quickly that Cincinnati is actually a great place to garden. For me, gardening is also about fueling my body the right way. As a professional athlete, what I eat directly impacts how I train, play and recover. Fresh produce from our garden gives me clean fuel – packed with nutrients that keep my energy up, help my muscles recover and support me through a long season. Even the physical work of gardening itself – bending, lifting, moving – complements my training by keeping me flexible and strong.
If you’re thinking about starting your own garden, here are a few lessons I’ve picked up:
- Keep it simple: Start with a couple of vegetables you love. It’s better to grow a few things well than to take on too much.
- Feed the soil: Strong plants come from strong soil. Use quality mix or add compost for the best results.
- Stay consistent: Plants need sunlight and steady watering. Deep watering a few times a week goes further than quick daily sprinkles.
For Victoria and me, the garden has become more than just a hobby – it’s part of our lifestyle. It keeps us grounded, healthy and grateful for the simple things. At the end of the day, whether I’m on the pitch or tending the garden, it all comes down to the same mindset: stay consistent, work hard and trust the process.
Learn more at mercy.com.
