The American Dairy Association North East proudly announces the winners of the first annual Refuel with Chocolate Milk Athlete of the Year awards, recognizing six outstanding high school track and field athletes for their dedication and performance.

These nominees for the annual award were selected from a group of Refuel with Chocolate Milk Athlete of the Month winners, all of whom showcased their talent at The Armory Track & Field Center in New York City. Their impressive achievements earned them a spot as a finalist this year. This year’s Refuel with Chocolate Milk Athletes of the Year include:​

  • Girl Sprinter of the Year: Elise Cooper | McDonogh School​, Owings Mills, Maryland.
  • Boy Sprinter of the Year: Wyatt Gravier | Bronxville High School, Bronxville, New York.​
  • Girls Distance Runner of the Year: Adriana Pettinelli | Scarsdale High School, Scarsdale, New York.
  • Boys Distance Runner of the Year: Tsedeke Jakovics | Old Mill High School, Glen Burnie, Maryland​.
  • Girls Field Events Athlete of the Year: Jessica Oji | Livingston High School, Livingston, New Jersey.
  • Boys Field Events Athlete of the Year: Joachim Johnson | Episcopal Academy, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. ​

Dairy farmers are deeply committed to supporting student-athletes in their pursuit of excellence. “As dairy farmers, we take great pride in providing nutritious products that help fuel the ambitions and achievements of young athletes. Chocolate milk, in particular, plays a crucial role in their recovery and performance,” says Audrey Donahoe, a New York dairy farmer from ATRASS Farm in Clayville. ​

Chocolate milk has the right mix of carbs and protein to help muscles recover and restore energy after a workout. Additionally, it provides vital nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, supporting overall bone health.

That’s why elite athletes like two-time U.S. Olympian and Armory record holder Elle St. Pierre consistently incorporate chocolate milk into their recovery routine. The Armory’s onsite café, The Refuel Zone Powered by Chocolate Milk, features imagery and this quote from St. Pierre, “Runners need to refuel! Chocolate milk provides the ideal carbohydrate-to-protein ratio to rebuild muscle!”