Dairy is the official refueling beverage of USA Pickleball thanks to a new partnership between United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) and the National Governing Body for the sport of pickleball in the U.S.

“Dairy and pickleball are a great partnership because both are for everyone,” says Cortney Freeland, UDIM Vice President of Strategic Partnerships. “We are thrilled to partner with USA Pickleball to promote physical activity and healthy habits in schools across Michigan.”

UDIM will serve as USA Pickleball’s Official Refuel Beverage partner and the official Pickleball in Schools partner. The partnership will help to introduce pickleball to Michigan schools through physical education teacher training and fueling students by highlighting dairy nutrition.

“By integrating pickleball into school programs and emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition with milk as a refuel beverage, we will support the well-being and development of students,” says Freeland. “This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity to bring excitement and energy to physical education while encouraging lifelong healthy habits.”

The partnership means Michigan school districts may participate in a USA Pickleball youth and recreation team event this fall. Attendees will learn how to introduce pickleball into schools, including how to teach fellow teachers, as well as receive nutrition education to help students get the nutrition they need to be strong students and athletes.

“This partnership with UDIM is incredibly exciting as USA Pickleball and Michigan’s dairy farmers share a common goal of enriching the lives of students in schools across the state of Michigan,” says Jose Moreno, USA Pickleball Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer.

Pickleball has exploded in popularity. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, more than 13.6 million people played pickleball across the United States in 2023. That’s a 65% increase from the previous year.

“We look forward to working with the UDIM team to bring exciting pickleball programs and initiatives to life, all with milk supporting the students’ ability to enjoy pickleball and stay active,” Moreno adds.

Concludes Freeland, “With this partnership, dairy farmers are leveraging the sport’s popularity to share the nutrition and deliciousness of chocolate milk and, really, all dairy foods. It’s another example of how UDIM is continuously seeking new and interesting ways to bring dairy’s message to consumers,” she says.

For more information about UDIM, visit milkmeansmore.org.