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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.

Ryan Mast
Markesan High School
Class of 2023
MAM Farms

Sports: 

Mast: I have participated in football, basketball, and baseball ever since my late elementary days. I continued that throughout high school and even did track my junior year. I earned the starting quarterback position my sophomore year. I was Captain my senior year along with earning first team all conference as well as the Eastern Suburban Conference Offensive Player of the Year. 

How do you balance farm, school and athletics?

Mast:  Through school, I am involved in the Youth-Apprenticeship Program which allows me to spend my mornings working on the farm while also earning credits. This has helped me get work hours on the farm while going to school in the afternoon to get my academic studies along with doing athletic practices and competitions year round.

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

Mast: I enjoy hunting, fishing, watching, and playing sports along with spending time with family.

How else are you involved in your local community?

Mast: I am in the National Honors Society which has helped me be involved with community events and helping others.

ON THE FARM

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

Mast: I grew up on my family farm with my late grandfather, dad, and two brothers. We farm about 500 acres of cash crop with about 50 head of black angus cattle. Ever since I was little, I have wanted to be around a bigger operation and dairy cows. In the Summer of 2020 I started working for a 750-cow dairy near my family's farm. 

What is your role on the farm?

Mast: Anything from running the chopper, planting, shop work, working with the cows, herd health, combining, hauling milk, etc. It varies daily!

Who do you farm with?

Mast: Dad, two brothers, and also the Krueger Family (MAM Farms)

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

Mast: Everyday when you wake up it is something new. I enjoy the challenges that farming throws at you and being able to see your crops grow throughout the year. It will never be repetitive!

Where does your farm ship its milk?

Mast: Mullins Cheese in Knowlton, WI.

What product is your milk turned into?

Mast: Cheese.

What sustainability practices do you employ on your farm?

Mast: Reduced tillage, effective manure management, cover crops.

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

Mast: I am proud knowing that I am involved in an industry where people rely on us for food and many other products that they use everyday.

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.