ADA North East President Audrey Donahoe, ADA North East CEO John Chrisman, and New York State Dairy Ambassador Olivia Shawley and Associates Addison Brown and Serenity Conklin visited the Armory Track & Field Center in New York City for the Refuel with Chocolate Milk Officials Hall of Fame Invitational.
The partnership with The Armory is part of ADA North East’s sports marketing program designed to reach student- athletes with positive dairy messaging.
The event, sponsored by ADA North East, drew more than 4,500 student-athletes from across New York State and the Northeast, and was held in celebration of National Milk Day on Sunday, January 11.
During the two-day event, athletes were offered Hudson Valley Fresh chocolate milk and Cabot Cheese samples, courtesy of ADA North East, showcasing the role dairy plays in fueling athletic performance and recovery through its naturally occurring essential nutrients.
Donahoe and the dairy ambassadors took part in on-field activities, including presenting awards and holding the finish line tape for selected races.
“It was incredible to see dairy – especially chocolate milk – supporting young athletes at such a high-energy event,” said Donahoe. “As a dairy farmer, it’s rewarding to know that the milk we produce on our farm is helping fuel athletes on a national level.”
ADA North East also sponsors the Refuel Zone at The Armory, giving athletes and spectators the opportunity to purchase chocolate milk to recharge after competition – an effort that highlights the important link between local dairy farmers and athletic performance.
“Before our involvement at Armory events, milk and other dairy options weren’t available in the Refuel Zone café,” said Chrisman. “It’s exciting to see that athletes can now not only learn about the benefits of dairy but also enjoy it right at the venue.”
Learn more about ADA North East sports nutrition education here.