News

Build Your Base Welcomes Former NFL Player Zach Zenner

Posted on March 22, 2021

Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Beef Industry Council (SDBIC) and Sanford Sports Science Institute (SSSI) announce that former National Football League (NFL) player, Zach Zenner, will endorse the Build Your Base with Beef program. The comprehensive sports nutrition program utilizing beef as the premier protein was developed through a collaborative partnership between the SDBIC, Sanford Health, and SSSI.

Zenner, who played for three NFL teams and was a standout running back at South Dakota State University, believes beef was vital to his successful athletic career.

“Build your Base is an important program to have at any stage in life, but especially when you’re young. It provides the resources you need to give you the foundation for a healthful lifestyle.”

Zenner who is currently working towards his master’s degree in nutrition, understands the value of high-quality protein in muscle recovery.

“One of the things that I really appreciate about beef, is the amino acid profile. Animal protein like beef is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids the body needs and that’s why beef is such an important aspect of recovery.”

Thayne Munce, PhD, Sports Science Researcher at Sanford Health, has been with the Build Your Base program throughout its developmental stages and believes Zenner is a great fit.

“Zach Zenner is an elite athlete and an exceptional young man. Throughout his esteemed collegiate and professional football career, Zach made proper nutrition a cornerstone of his performance strategy and overall lifestyle. We are thrilled to have Zach join the Build Your Base team and be a role model to aspiring young athletes everywhere.”

SDBIC Executive Director, Suzy Geppert is excited to add Zenner to the list of endorsees for the program.

“The Build Your Base program continues to exceed expectations. We have put together a practical and doable plan which offers athletes and their family’s tools for recovery meals, meal plans, and recipes.”

Learn more about the Build Your Base program at buildyourbase.org

The South Dakota Beef Industry Council works on behalf of South Dakota beef producers through the $1 Beef Checkoff program.

For more information on Beef Checkoff and statewide efforts visit sdbeef.org and MyBeefCheckoff.com or contact Suzy Geppert at sgeppert@sdbeef.org.