That was the chant heard loud and clear last Monday at Pulaski International School in Chicago, Ill., as Commissioner Roger Goodell helped announce that the National Football League (NFL) was committing five more years to the Fuel Up to Play 60 program.
Fuel Up to Play 60 is the nation's largest in-school nutrition and physical activity program. The $250 million public/private partnership between the National Dairy Council, National Football League, GENYOUth Foundation, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the U.S. Department of Education strives to create healthier school environments and empower youth to make healthy changes.
The classroom is where NFL players and dairy farmers bring the program to life. In 73,000 schools across the country, with the help of teacher and student advisers, Fuel Up to Play 60 reached 14 million students in the last five years. With this renewed commitment, efforts will continue to educate students about the importance of exercise and eating nutritious foods, including low-fat dairy products.
Thomas P. Gallagher, Chief Executive Officer?of Dairy Management Inc. and CEO of the National Dairy Council, explained that this program allows dairy farmers to make a commitment to health and education. It is an opportunity to bring more dairy products into schools and create life-long milk drinkers. It also gives the dairy industry a voice when it comes to making school breakfast and lunch regulations, he said.
The star power the NFL and former players bring to Fuel Up to Play 60 events is a substantial benefit in inspiring and motivating students. However, the level of enthusiasm and sincere interest the dairy producers provide is undeniable.
"Children are our future. This is my chance to make a difference," said Arkansas dairy farmer and United Dairy Industry Association board member Ryan Anglin, as he served up a healthy snack of yogurt to students.
To learn more about the event and its connection to the dairy industry, please read, "Students and farmers alike are excited about Fuel Up to Play 60."
