KSHSAA Continues Partnership with Kansas Beef Council as Official Protein Sponsor

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) names the Kansas Beef Council (KBC) as the Official Protein Sponsor of Kansas High School Athletics. This announcement is the continuation of the partnership, spotlighting the strength and community spirit of Kansas student athletes while showcasing beef as the protein that powers their success.

KBC will serve as the official protein sponsor of KSHSAA at state championship events and presenting sponsor of both the State Cross Country and State Wrestling Championships. These efforts will reach nearly 1 million fans annually, providing educational programming to help member schools make informed decisions about athletic nutrition.

A key component of the Checkoff-funded partnership includes the Sports Nutrition Game Plan, a free online resource designed to help athletes, coaches and parents learn how to properly fuel for performance. Developed by a registered dietitian, the program offers science-based nutrition guidance, including videos, recipes, meal plans and hydration tips, all emphasizing beef’s role as a high-quality protein for performance and recovery.

“High school athletes work hard to improve their performance, and nutrition is an important part of that equation,” KBC Director of Nutrition Abby Heidari, RDN, LD, said. “The Sports Nutrition Game Plan gives athletes and coaches practical, science-based tools to help them fuel, recover and perform their best.”

With more than 140 Kansas coaches and trainers already enrolled, the program continues to grow as schools without access to a sports dietitian seek reliable nutrition education. Through digital, social and event-based promotions, this partnership keeps beef top of mind with athletes and families while strengthening trust and demand.

“There are two pillars to the state of Kansas: community supporting high school activities and the beef industry. For many, the two are what the town revolves around,” said Jeremy Holaday, Assistant Executive Director of KSHSAA. “When we think of meaningful partnerships for our member schools, Kansas Beef Council is a winner on all fronts. Their ability to enhance KSHSAA championships and provide nutritional plans for our schools has been outstanding.”

The partnership continuation reflects KSHSAA’s and KBC’s continued commitment to
supporting high school athletics across Kansas and educating student-athletes, schools, families and fans on the high-quality protein for performance and recovery.

To learn more about the partnership between KSHSAA and KBC, visit www.kansasbeef.org or contact Director of Nutrition Abby Heidari, RDN, LD, at abby@kansasbeef.org.