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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.

Demetrius Bergmann
Pepin High School
Class of 2024
Dusek Family Farm

Sports:

Bergmann: I grew up playing sports year round. I played basketball when I was young, and now wrestle on the varsity team. I am a running back and inside linebacker for the football team, as well as a captain on the team. I also play baseball and track and field, where I have been a 4x state qualifier in track for in the spring.

How do you balance farm, school and athletics?

Bergmann: My day is always busy during the school year. A majority of my time is spent in the classroom or in athletics. But once those finish up I am happy to help out with evening milkings or hauling loads, or any chores.  

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

Bergmann: While I'm not helping out on the farm, I enjoy snowmobiling or riding my dirt bike with my buddies, working out, hunting, or spending time with family and friends.

How else are you involved in your local community?

Bergmann: I grew up serving almost every Sunday at my church, now I usher there and help out with any church activities when I can.

ON THE FARM

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

Bergmann: I started farming on our family hobby farm, milking our family cow when I was young, I then began working up at the neighbor's farm as much as I could and as soon as I could. Now helping up at the Dusek family farm has always felt like a second home for me. I enjoy every aspect of working with the animals and equipment and love spending time around the farm.  

What is your role on the farm?

Bergmann: My main jobs while helping out at the farm include milking cows, cleaning out barns, spreading manure, preparing and maintaining equipment, and hauling in loads while chopping.

Who do you farm with?

Bergmann:  I farm with my two bosses, Derek and Logan (they are brothers). I would say I see Derek and Logan as more of friends than as my bosses. Milking with these two is always enjoyable and there is always something entertaining to talk about in the parlor.

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

Bergmann: I love working with animals and running machinery. I wouldn’t look at work on the farm as hard work, I enjoy all that I do up there.

Where does your farm ship its milk?

Bergmann: Ellsworth Creamery in Ellsworth, Wisconsin

What product is your milk turned into?

Bergmann: Cheese and butter

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

Bergmann: My most favorite part of farming with the Duseks is always learning new things about cattle or the agriculture field.  

What sustainability practices do you employ on your farm?

Bergmann: The Dusek's work closely with their agronomists to keep the soil healthy and at an all time high. They do soil testing and grow cover crops to help maintain soil health.

Additional Information:

Bergmann:  Working on the farm has definitely shaped me into the person I am today. Without the work I did at a young age, I would not be the athlete I am today. I would not know what I do today and would not do what I do today if I never expressed interest in the agriculture industry at a young age.

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.