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The Wisconsin Dairy Athlete of the Month sponsored by WisSports.net (WSN) in partnership with Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) aims to connect consumers with Wisconsin’s dedicated dairy farmers and the youth who grow and raise food for their local communities.  

DFW and WSN are recognizing high school student-athletes who are actively involved on a Wisconsin dairy farm and participate in at least one WIAA-sanctioned varsity sport. Dairy is a vital part of the economy in nearly every Wisconsin county, whether urban or rural. Family-owned farms, dairy processors and dairy-related businesses generate thousands of jobs and millions of dollars of economic activity while contributing to local income and tax revenues.

Nominate a high school athlete for the Wisconsin Dairy Athlete of the Month by clicking here.

Madeline Hensel
Pittsville High School
Class of 2023
Red Blossom Farm, Sunsett Dairy

Sports: 

Football - Kicker/FG Kicker; played two years; First Female to score as a Varsity Football player in Pittsville High School history

Track & Field - Shot Put, 4x100, 4x200; 2021 & 2022 Team Conference Champion

Eau Claire United Soccer - Goalkeeper/Forward - Captain - played for 4 years at EC. Fall 2022 League Champions

How do you balance farm, school and athletics?

Hensel: I work alongside my sisters to manage our herd of show cattle. I have developed time management skills and stay organized to stay active in many activities. My family is very supportive and encourages me to be involved in many different organizations.

What hobbies / interests do you have outside of dairy farming?

Hensel: I work for Memory Lane Farm as a Youth Apprentice. Memory Lane Farm is a faith-based non-profit providing mentoring, agriculture/educational camps, opportunities for foster and kinship families, social events, and more. I have the opportunity to plan these events, work alongside the Executive Director with program development, interact with all demographics, and manage marketing, including social media, event promotion, editing newsletters, photography, and more. I enjoy fostering kittens with my family for the Feline/Canine Friends Program.

How else are you involved in your local community?

Hensel: I am an active member of Pittsville FFA and Pittsville National Honor Society, serving as President for my second term in both organizations, Pittsville FCCLA and FBLA chapters, Class President on Student Council, and serve as the Student Representative on the Pittsville School District School Board. I am also very involved in the Wood County, Wisconsin, and National Holstein Association, competing in dairy quiz bowl, jeopardy, and public speaking contests.

ON THE FARM

What is your farm story and how long have you been involved in the operation?

Hensel: My sisters and I have been raising and developing our herd of Red & White Holsteins, under the Red Blossom prefix, for 11 years. We manage our small herd as a team and appreciate elite red genetics, longevity, milk production, and showing quality animals. Our animals are boarded at Sunsett Dairy in Pittsville and at Dorsland Farms in Junction City, where my older sister, Hannah, is the herdsman.

What is your role on the farm?

Hensel: I focus on raising our heifers. I watch growth, make nutrition goals, and train heifers for shows. I also help out the Hughes Family at Sunsett Dairy with their everyday chores: milking, feeding calves, and more!

Who do you farm with?

Hensel: I farm with my sisters, Hannah, 19, and Grace, 13. We work with the Hughes Family: Stephanie & Alan, and their sons Bryce, Gavin, and Derek. We are very grateful to have the opportunity to learn from the Hughes Family.

What is your favorite part of being involved with the farm?

Hensel: I love being able to watch calves grow into productive, quality cows. It shows that hard work pays off and teaches many life lessons.

Where does your farm ship its milk?

Hensel: Wisconsin Dairy State Cheese Company

What product is your milk turned into?

Hensel: Cheese Curds and other cheese products

What sustainability practices do you employ on your farm?

Hensel: Sunsett Dairy practices Intensive Rotational Grazing techniques. Rotational Grazing is different from normal grazing by moving animals to different pastures or “lots” to ensure forage management and allow for lots to reset after being grazed. When I help with chores, I sustain this practice by helping move fences and make sure cattle go to a new lot when needed every couple days.

Please share your most proud moments or farm achievements/awards?

Hensel: I am currently serving as the 2022 Wisconsin Holstein Association Princess. This opportunity has given me the platform to advocate for the dairy industry and spread my passion of raising registered show cattle. My sisters and I are very proud of our bred and owned junior animals. We strive to improve our herd with every decision.

Nominate a high school athlete for the Wisconsin Dairy Athlete of the Month by clicking here.

One athlete will be selected from nominations received each month.  Selected student athletes will be featured on www.wissports.net as well as DFW and WSN social media channels. 

About Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin

Funded by Wisconsin dairy farmers, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin is a non-profit organization that focuses on marketing and promoting Wisconsin's world-class dairy products. For more information, visit our website at wisconsindairy.org.