USA WWF

MacKenzie Mainer from Texas A & M University has been awarded the $2,500 Lucille Avila Ortiz Scholarship.

“I feel beyond grateful for this opportunity and for the generosity of the Avila family to help me further my education. This fall, I will begin my third year studying architecture at Texas A&M University, competing on the Aggie Waterski Team, and serving as the South Central Region's Athlete Advisory Council and voting member on the NCWSA board.”  -MacKenzie

I was raised three-event water skiing with my family at Bell Acqua in California, and my love for the sport has only grown since beginning college. Life on the water has truly shaped me into who I am today, blessing me with countless memories and relationships to last a lifetime.

The purpose of the Lucille Avila Ortiz Scholarship is to provide an annual scholarship to a US Citizen that preferably competes in National Water Ski Racing Association (NWSRA) events first or if there are not any applicants from the NWSRA, then the applicants must demonstrate strong athletic abilities, strong academic standings and be involved in good community service projects in the Western region of USA-WSWS.

Emma Davis from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has been awarded the $2,680 Steve and Ann Lohr Scholarship.

“Three-event waterskiing is one of the biggest parts of my life, and it has helped shape me into the person I am today. Through waterskiing, I have had the opportunity to travel the world, visiting places including Paraguay, Chile, and Peru, and experiencing different cultures. The sport has also given me opportunities to serve others by working as an official at competitions such as Eastern Regionals, serving as tournament director for the Sparta Trick Championships, and coaching younger skiers as they learn new tricks, run more buoys, and jump farther. I have been incredibly blessed to be coached by some of the best in the sport, including my mom Susie Davis, Marc Bedsole, and my main coach, Rhoni Bischoff. Also, through the sport of waterskiing, I have made some of my closest friendships and been given countless opportunities that I will always be grateful for. Because of all this sport has given me, I am deeply grateful to receive the Steve & Ann Lohr Water Ski Scholarship and look forward to continuing to give back to the sport and the people who have poured so much into me.” - Emma.

Funded by the EverBless Foundation, the Steve and Ann Lohr Scholarship is intended to support the educational pursuits of exceptional students involved in the sport of water skiing and/or with the USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the sport of 3-event water skiing, with a successful competitive record but need not be an overall skier. Involvement in skiing in Virginia or the Eastern Region will be given priority.

RJ Teter from the University of Notre Dame has been awarded the $2,000 John Worden Scholarship.

"What started with a single tournament, highlighted by hotdogs and cake, has changed the entire course of my life.  Waterskiing - and the constant tinkering with bindings, fins, and course anchor systems - is a large part of why I have decided to study mechanical engineering, and now the waterskiing community is helping me do so.  I am honored to be privileged to pursue my degree in Mr. Worden’s name and this scholarship will be a great help in paying for my education. "  - R.J.

Established by request of The John Worden Memorial Foundation, the scholarship is given to the qualifying candidate who is an AWSA and/or NCWSA undergraduate student attending college and that is pursuing a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering and/or Mathematics (STEM) and demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities and the ability to take an innovative approach to solving problems.

Jaeden Eade from the University Of Louisiana at Monroe has been awarded the $2,000 Elmer Stailing/Southern Region Scholarship.

"I am deeply humbled to be receiving this scholarship and will continue to spread awareness about our sport throughout campus. This scholarship will help me with my future goals of applying to medical school in Florida and becoming one of the best men's slalom skiers in the world".  - Jaeden.

"I am thankful to USA waterski for supporting me and many other collegiate athletes with their dedication to the sport. Without this organization I would not be able to pursue and chase my goals both academically and on the water as well"

Rachel Thibault from University of St. Thomas has been awarded the $1,500 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship.

I feel honored to have been selected as a recipient of this scholarship. Water skiing has been a huge part of my life ever since my dad taught me how to ski at the age of three, and even today, we still enjoy skiing together. After receiving this scholarship, the show director of my water ski team, Walker Judd, shared with me that he and Tim had been lifelong best friends. Learning about that personal connection, along with hearing more about Tim and the impact he had on those around him, made me feel even more grateful and blessed to receive this scholarship. It is truly an honor to be recognized in his memory. - Rachel

This scholarship will enhance my education by opening up further opportunities inside school that I can carry on with me into the real world. Helping ease the financial aspect of college allows me to focus more on my studies and the community. It will also provide greater opportunities to become involved on campus, pursue leadership experiences, and continue working towards my career goals.

Jordan Sheehan from University of California Los Angeles has been awarded the $1,500 "Big Al" Wagner Western Region Scholarship.

I am incredibly grateful to have been awarded the Big Al Wagner Scholarship. I had never waterskied before college, so I am very thankful to have discovered the sport at UCLA. Joining the team has been one of the highlights of my college career and has introduced me to an amazing community. I cannot thank the USA-WWF enough for their generosity and encouragement to try my best both in and out of the water. This scholarship allows me to feel supported in both my academic career and the sport I found in college and have grown to love.

- Jordan

This scholarship will greatly enhance my education and help me achieve my passion of becoming an occupational therapist. My career is extremely important to me as I want to turn my education into something that can benefit others in my community. Occupational therapy allows me to do this by giving me the opportunity to work with kids with special needs and people recovering from strokes/debilitating circumstances.

Evan Fallon from University of Rhode Island has been awarded the $1,500 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship.

"I'm incredibly thankful for this scholarship and for all the support I've had from the show ski community throughout my life. I'm excited for what the future holds both professionally and for all the time I'll still be spending on the water." - Evan

"Growing up in show skiing taught me the value of teamwork, but it also showed me what it means to take on challenges that seem difficult at first. Learning hard skills like backwards barefooting, centering a three tier, and jumping on a crowded jump line taught me to stay persistent and keep pushing myself even when something feels difficult in the beginning. Those lessons have stayed with me far beyond the water."

Carter Boerman from The University of Alabama has been awarded the $1,500 Jennifer Odom/David Kammerer Barefoot Scholarship.

"Winning the Jennifer Odum/Dave Kammerer Scholarship means a lot to me, both as a competitor and as a student. Barefoot water skiing has shaped who I am, and it's incredibly meaningful to be recognized by an organization that has played such an important role in my life." - Carter

"This scholarship takes some of the financial pressure off as I finish my civil engineering degree, and allows me to stay fully focused on my academics."

Hailey Hince from Chippewa Valley Technical College has been awarded the $1,000 C.W. “Bill” and Teddy Wenner Scholarship.

“Receiving the C.W. “Bill” and Teddy Wenner Scholarship is an amazing blessing because it will help me achieve my educational ambitions of becoming a nurse! I feel very grateful and honored to have been selected!” - Hailey

“Ever since I was a young girl, waterskiing has been a huge part of my life, whether it’s show skiing, three-event skiing, or skiing with my family. I’m excited to continue chasing more buoys this year and helping others experience this wonderful sport!”

Established in 2025 the scholarship is to be awarded to the outstanding male or female applicant who attends a two or four year accredited college or accredited trade school and skis primarily in AWSA, NCWSA, or USA-AWSWS tournaments. The applicant is to demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, leadership and volunteerism.

"Unbelievably stoked to receive the Dave Goode Scholarship from the USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation. The waterskiing community has given me so much over the years and I'm proud to be part of it."

"This scholarship directly supports my final year at UW-Madison, taking pressure off my tuition and allowing me to focus on making this last season on Wisconsin Waterski count."

Alana Jones is awarded the 2026 Kent Williams and Alton Ball Kingsman Scholarship.

"I am incredibly honored to be a second year recipient of The Kent Williams and Alton Ball Kingsman Scholarship. I want to thank Richard Williams for sponsoring this scholarship that helps skiers like me pursue my goals both on and off the water." 

Lauren Connelly from Iowa State University College of Engineering/ Mechanical Engineering has been awarded the $10,000 Barbara Bolding/Jim Grew Scholarship.

“Being selected for the Barbara Bolding/Jim Grew Scholarship truly means the world to me. It feels like a recognition of all the time, heart, and energy I’ve poured into this sport and the amazing community around it. Water skiing has shaped so much of who I am—from the friendships and leadership roles to the confidence I’ve gained along the way. It motivates me to keep striving for excellence in the classroom as I pursue my engineering degree with the same passion I bring to the water.”

Adam Long from Texas State University has been awarded the $5,000 Ed Hickey Scholarship.

“I feel overjoyed about being the student selected to receive the Ed Hickey Scholarship from USA Waterski & Wake Sports Foundation. I have worked hard putting in hours of work into supporting my collegiate team while also supporting my fellow peers as a student senator. To me, this scholarship meant that my efforts were recognized, and I cannot wait to spend my time skiing and leading more now that I have the financial ability to not work part-time.”

2022 Bill Wenner scholarship $1000

2023 Stan & Donna Switzer Scholarship $1000

2023 Linda Giddens Girls 5 Scholarship $1000

2024 Stan & Donna Switzer Scholarship $1000

"I am so grateful for the generous support the waterski community has provided me through the Bill Wenner scholarship, Stan and Donna Switzer Scholarship, and Linda Giddens Girls 5 Scholarship. Receiving this scholarship means so much to me and will help me continue to pursue my passion for waterskiing while furthering my education at the University of Louisiana Lafayette. Your generosity not only eases the financial burden of college but also motivates me to keep striving to push me to my very best both on the water and as I pursue a degree in kinesiology. I am truly honored to be a recipient and I promise to represent this scholarship with dedication, hard work, and good sportsmanship.”

Emma Davis from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has been awarded the $2,680 Steve and Ann Lohr Scholarship.

“Waterskiing is more than a sport to me; it is part of who I am. While I work hard to train and compete at the highest levels, it is the friendships, the opportunities, and the meaningful moments behind the scenes that have shaped me the most. Waterskiing has introduced me to incredible people, given me the chance to travel and compete around the world, and taught me the value of hard work, humility, and dedication. Helping with junior development clinics, coaching skiers of all levels, and judging in tournaments has taught me that being generous with my time and helping grow the sport brings even more meaning to waterskiing."

Madison Martin from Iowa State University has been awarded the $2,500 John Van Gieson Scholarship.

"It is such an honor to be able to receive the 2025 John Van Gieson Scholarship, and I am forever grateful for the generosity of the Van Gieson Family. There is nothing I love more than being on the water, and I cannot wait to spread this joy to others in this community. This is yet another example of the many ways this sport continues to support me, and I am so lucky to be able to be in it."

Sophia Rivera from Lansing Community College has been awarded the $2,500 Lucille Avila Ortiz Scholarship.

“Receiving this scholarship means so much to me—not only because it helps with college expenses, but because it recognizes the hard work and passion I’ve put into water skiing.”

Sierra Klinchuch from Florida Southern College has been awarded the $2,500 Richard Avila Scholarship.

“Receiving this scholarship reminds me that hard work and passion never go unnoticed. It inspires me to keep pushing boundaries in both the classroom and on the water.”

Emma Goldstein from the University of Alabama has been awarded the $2,200 "Banana George" Blair Ambassador Scholarship.

"I am deeply honored to receive this scholarship in memory of George Blair—it motivates me to continue striving for excellence in everything I do."

Reece (R.J.) Teter from the University Of Notre Dame has been awarded the $2,000 Elmer Stailing/Southern Region Scholarship.

"I have learned valuable life lessons, on and off the water, from the Southern Region water ski community and I am honored to be selected for the Elmer Stailing Scholarship.  This scholarship will help me pursue my goal of becoming a Marine Corps Officer through the University of Notre Dame NROTC program."

Reina Itai from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has been awarded the $2,000John Worden Scholarship.

"I am deeply honored and grateful to the John Worden Memorial Foundation and the scholarship selection committee for their generosity and support. I hope to tackle challenges on and off the water in the same way John did: in a calm demeanor and "can-do" attitude. As John used to say, 'We Got This!' "

Carter Boerman from The University of Alabama has been awarded the $1,500 Jennifer Odom/David Kammerer Barefoot Scholarship.

"I’m truly grateful and humbled to receive this scholarship. Being recognized by my barefooting community is a meaningful milestone in both my academic journey and personal growth. This award not only supports my education but also inspires me to continue striving for excellence."   

Isabella Melo from San Diego State University has been awarded the $1,500 "Big Al" Wagner Western Region Scholarship.

"I am so excited to win the Big Al Wagner/Western Region Scholarship! I learned to waterski through the San Diego State team and was introduced to an amazing community of people that have helped me to learn and grow as a person and skier. This scholarship will help me pursue my career in physical therapy. I am incredibly grateful to be recognized as a leader on and off the water!"  

Lauryn DeWitt from The University of Wisconsin Stevens Point has been awarded the $1,500 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship.

"I am incredibly thankful for this scholarship and support from the show ski community throughout my life. This scholarship has encouraged me to continue to believe in myself and to know that others believe in my potential."

Taylor Camann from Auburn University has been awarded the $1,500 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship.

"Receiving this scholarship means so much to me as a student committed to continuing my education while pursuing my passion for skiing at the collegiate level. I feel incredibly proud and deeply grateful for this opportunity."

Alana Jones from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette has been awarded the $1,000 Kent Williams and Alton Ball Kingsman Scholarship.

"This scholarship inspires me to push my limits both on and off the water in my education and skiing. Through this, I hope to be able to give back to the community of the sport I love." says Alana.

Kennedy Hansen from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette has been awarded the $1,000 Florida Water Ski Federation Scholarship.

"I am thankful to be the Florida waterski federation recipient. It’s truly an honor."

Claire Rolbiecki from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse has been awarded the $1,000 Dave Goode Scholarship.

"Thank you for awarding me as the recipient of the Dave Goode Scholarship of $1,000 this year! I am deeply grateful to not only Dave as the donor, but the Foundation as a whole. What an amazing, support-filled sport that we get to partake in and connect with so many others as well".

Laura Rucks from Clemson University has been awarded the $1,000 C.W. “Bill” and Teddy Wenner Scholarship.

“I am honored to have earned the 2025 C.W. “Bill” and Teddy Wenner Scholarship. I am thrilled to further pursue my academic endeavors and uphold a standard of excellence within the water ski community!”

Zachary “Lucky” Detray from Southeastern University has been awarded the $1,000 Jeff Clark Florida Water Ski Federation Scholarship.

“This Scholarship reminds me of how grateful I am to be skiing, a gift I don't take for granted."

Stan & Donna Switzer - Florida Water Ski Federation Scholarship.  Awarded to a youth female competitor at the Florida State Championships as selected by the Board of Directors of the Florida Water Ski Federation. The scholarship shall be awarded to the competitor based on both athletics and character to honor The Switzer’s commitment to the sport both on and off the water.

The Switzers have been amazing skiers, officials, volunteers, and mentors and the recipient should represent their character and work ethic.

The Scholarship recipient will be announced at the State Championships, and the funds will be held in escrow with the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation for use by the recipient, within four years of graduating high school, at an accredited two or four-year college or university.

Dustin Roberts of Rowlett, Texas, has been chosen as the recipient of a $1,000 USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation College Scholarship. Dustin is an incoming Junior at Texas A&M University majoring in Biomedical Engineering.

“To me, waterskiing is the best sport in the world because of the uplifting community and shared interest in expanding the sport.

Anyone involved in towed watersports knows the thrill of being behind the boat regardless of their skill level. This scholarship means the world to me because it means that the sport I've poured my heart into is rewarding me by facilitating my education," says Dustin.

Reina Itai from Roselle, Illinois, has won the $1,000 Dave Goode Memorial Scholarship. Reina is a junior at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, majoring in Civil Engineering.

"This scholarship will significantly aid me in achieving my academic and career goals while continuing my passion for waterski. It will enable me to focus more on my studies and participate in additional educational opportunities that will enrich my college experience," says Reina.

"Upon joining the waterski team at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, I have gained a massive passion for three-event waterskiing. Outside of the classroom, I love to spend time skiing and hanging out with my team. I hope to continue this sport throughout the rest of my life and share my passion with the rest of the world," says Reina.

Kennedy Hansen of Milton, Florida, has won the $1000 Florida Water Ski Federation Scholarship.   Kennedy will be a Junior at the University of Louisiana in Lafayette, majoring in Kinesiology with a minor in Chemistry.  Her goal is to one day be a Dental Surgeon or Physicians Assistant.

"I am honored to be able to accept this award as a part of the Florida Waterski Federation. I am proud to represent Florida and collegiate water skiing and continue to do the sport that I love. This award will make that happen; therefore, I am honored to be able to accept this award and cannot wait for the rest of the waterski season," says Kennedy.

Kiara Tenorio of Spring Valley, California, is the winner of the $1500 "Big Al" Wagner—Western Region Scholarship. She is a Senior studying Biology at the University of California—Los Angeles. She plans to join the Navy and become an Orthodontist. Her goal is to work in the underserved communities in San Diego.

"I am incredibly grateful to the foundation for their generosity in awarding me this scholarship and for their continued support of collegiate water skiers. This award not only recognizes our commitment to our teams and community but also greatly aids me in pursuing my career in dentistry. It inspires me to strive for academic excellence and make a positive impact both on and off the water," says Kiara.

Carter Boerman of Bristol, Wisconsin, has been chosen as the 2024 recipient of the $1,500 Jennifer Odom/Dave Kammerer Memorial Scholarship. Carter was just named to the 2024 USA Elite World Barefoot Team and was part of the 2023 Junior and Elite World Barefoot Team. He is an incoming Freshman at the University of Alabama and plans to study Civil Engineering, eventually getting his MBA.

"I am very honored and fortunate to have been awarded this scholarship. Being acknowledged within my barefooting community is a notable achievement in my academic and personal development. This scholarship aids my education and acts as a motivating force for me," says Carter.

Avery Crain is from Lake Wales, Florida.  She will be a sophomore at Florida Southern College studying Exercise Science.

"Winning this scholarship has filled me with so much joy and excitement. It's an incredible feeling to know that my hard work and dedication to water skiing have been recognized and rewarded. This scholarship means the world to me and will undoubtedly enhance my education in ways I could have only dreamed of. It will provide me with the necessary support to pursue my academic goals and further develop my skills in the field of water skiing," says Avery.

Lauyrn DeWitt is from Winneconne, Wisconsin. She will be a Sophomore at the University of Wisconsin—Stevens Point and majors in Music Education. “I am very grateful to the USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation for believing in me and my future.  It is an honor to be the recipient of the Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship. It has increased my confidence to continue to pursue my academic and water skiing goals and dreams,"  says Lauryn.

Lauren Connelly of Lockport, Illinois, has been chosen as the 2024 recipient of the $2,000 John Worden Scholarship. Lauren is an incoming junior at Iowa State University studying Mechanical Engineering.

"I am absolutely thrilled to have been awarded the John Worden Scholarship this year. I am deeply grateful to the Worden family for their generosity. Throughout this year, I've worked hard both on the lake and in the classroom, so being recognized in this way is incredibly rewarding," says Lauren.

Nora Bally of Axis, Alabama, has been chosen as the 2024 recipient of the $2,000 Elmer Stailing Southern Region Scholarship. Nora is an incoming sophomore at the University of South Alabama. She is majoring in Health Sciences and plans to become a Physician's Assistant.

"I am extremely honored and grateful to be chosen as this year's Elmer Stailing Southern Region Scholarship recipient and I will never take for granted how blessed I am to have such a supportive waterski community!" says Nora.

Emily Moore has been chosen as the 2024 recipient of the $2,200 "Banana George" Blair Ambassador Scholarship. Emily is from Bastrop, Texas, and is a Junior at Texas State University majoring in Animal Science/Pre-Veterinarian.

"This scholarship is an incredible opportunity for me as it will assist in taking my education to the next level. This scholarship will aid in my ambitions to attend veterinary school and further my goals of working with the University on research projects," says Emily.

Keelie Plessner of Eagan, Minnesota, has been chosen as the 2024 recipient of the $2,500 John Van Gieson Memorial Scholarship. Keelie is an incoming Senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison studying Human Development, Family Studies, and Psychology.

"I am beyond excited to receive the USA-WWF scholarship that honors John Van Gieson, who spent his life getting on the water as much as he could. I would not be who I am today without the support of other waterskiers, and am looking forward to making more people smile on and off the water," says Keelie.

Evan Fallon of Westborough, Massachusetts, has been chosen as the 2024 recipient of the new $3,000 Steve & Ann Lohr Scholarship. Evan is an incoming Sophomore at the University of Rhode Island majoring in Pharmacy.

“As a Christian, the sport of Waterskiing has allowed me to further pursue the values of the faith. I have participated in various philanthropy events and taught others how to ski by being generous with my time, it also has instilled values such as hard work, challenging myself, and that failing is simply just part of learning. With this scholarship, I am excited to continue this journey while also pursuing my education," says Evan.

Wes Cory of Sacramento, California, has been chosen as the 2024 recipient of the $5,000 Ed Hickey Scholarship. Wes is an incoming Sophomore at UCLA and is studying Mathematics and Economics.

“I feel overwhelmed by the honor of receiving the 2024 Ed Hickey Scholarship. I will not forget how waterskiing and this organization helped me both on and off the water. Hopefully, I will be able to continue giving back to this sport that has helped me in so many different ways," says Wes.

Mary Nelson of Cincinnati, Ohio is the 2024 recipient of the $10,000 Barbara Bolding/Jim Grew Scholarship.  Mary is a senior at Miami University majoring in Political Science and plans to become a lawyer.

“This scholarship will help me with my future aspirations of attending Law School and becoming a lawyer. I cannot wait to continue to grow academically as well as improve my water skiing for the rest of my life,” says Mary

“I am extremely honored to receive the Barbara Bolding/Jim Grew Scholarship. This scholarship will aid my future career on and off the water. The support from the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation is amazing, and I am so grateful to be a part of this community," says Mary.

Mitchel Kudronowicz from Muskego, Wisconsin has won the $2,000 Dave Goode Memorial Scholarship. Mitchel is studying Biological Systems Engineering at the University Wisconsin-Madison and is the President of their waterski team.

"Waterskiing has been a significant part of my life and thanks to this scholarship it is clear that it has and will continue to make a positive impact on every aspect of my life," he says.

William Blair of Mooresville, North Carolina has been chosen as the 2023 recipient of the $2,000 Elmer Stailing Southern Region Scholarship. William is an incoming freshman at the University of Alabama and will be studying engineering.

"I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support, encouragement, and guidance of my Southern Region Water Ski Family through my junior skiing years, and I will always be grateful!" William says.

Emma Applegate of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida has won the $1000 Florida Water Ski Federation Scholarship.

Emma is an incoming sophomore at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin majoring in Exercise Science in the Direct Entry Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program.

"I am so grateful for the 2023 Florida Water Ski Federation Scholarship. It will greatly help me towards my water skiing dreams and aspirations!" says Emma, who trains at Hobe Lake Ski Club in Hobe Sound, Florida.

Brooke Elfert has been named the second recipient of this year's $1500 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship. Brooke is from Stillwater, Minnesota and is an incoming freshman at the University of Northern Colorado. She plans to study Nursing and Spanish.

"I am so honored to be selected for this scholarship, and beyond thankful for everything the waterski community has done for me!" Brooke says.

Megan Adams of Center City, Minnesota has been chosen as the 2023 recipient of the $1,500 Jennifer Odom/Dave Kammerer Memorial Scholarship. Megan is a Junior World Barefoot Overall Champion and an Open Women's Competitor. She will be an incoming Junior at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and is studying Engineering. This is the third consecutive year Megan has won this scholarship!

Megan says, "I am very grateful and honored to receive this scholarship from USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation. This scholarship will help me pay for my education while I also focus on barefoot waterskiing. Thank you USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation for providing many scholarships to help college students that are involved in water sports."

Kendra Nathan of Canyon Lake, California is the 2023 recipient of the $10,000 Barbara Bolding/Jim Grew Scholarship.

Kendra is an incoming Sophomore at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette majoring in Hospitality Management.   “I am completely honored and overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation for the generosity shown by the Bolding family, as well as Jim Grew and the scholarship selection committee. This scholarship will help support my future both on and off the water," Kendra says.   

Kendra currently competes on the University of Louisiana-Lafayette Water Ski Team in slalom, trick and jump. She has also competed in many prestigious events around the world including the Masters, Junior U.S. Open, and Junior Canadian Open. She is a member of the Canyon Lake Ski Club and volunteers as a senior three-event judge for their tournaments as well as for their annual community "Breakfast with Santa" event.

“Being awarded this scholarship will help me take steps to further my aspirations in the hospitality management industry, while continuing to better my skiing and better myself in everyday life," she says.

Sean Freitag of Wind Lake, Wisconsin, has been chosen as the 2023 recipient of the $2,500 John Van Gieson Memorial Scholarship. Sean is an incoming Senior at Southern Illinois University studying Automotive Technology.

“I was super excited to get the call being told that I was chosen for the John Van Gieson Scholarship! I’ve worked really hard on and off the water this year to receive a scholarship like this, it feels good knowing that my hard work had been recognized," Sean says.

Charlsey Newman of McDonald, Tennessee has been chosen as the 2022 recipient of the $2200 "Banana  George" Blair Ambassador Scholarship. Charlsey is a Senior at Rollins College majoring in Sociology, American Studies, and Professional Writing.

"I am honored and grateful for the "Banana" George Blair Ambassador  Scholarship granted to me by the USA Waterski and Wake Sports Foundation.  I have grown up in the sport as a three-event competitor and appreciate the continued support from the Foundation," says Charlsey.

Charlsey is a three-event water ski event competitor in AWSA and NCWSA, a member  of the NCWSA Board of Directors and the very first female appointed announcer at the 2022 USAWS Nationals (recipient of the Tommy Bartlett Announcers Award.)

Zach Butterfield of Sherman, Texas has been chosen as the 2023 recipient of the $2,000 John Worden Scholarship. Zach is an incoming Senior at Texas A&M University and is studying Mechanical Engineering.

"I am excited to receive this award; it is very pleasing to see how USA-WWF supports collegiate skiers like myself. I am very grateful to the Worden family for their amazing generosity," Zach says.

Gabrielle Klemm of San Diego, California is the winner of the $1500 "Big Al" Wagner - Western Region Scholarship. Gabrielle is a Junior, studying Nursing at San Diego State University.

"I am deeply grateful for the invaluable support extended to student-athletes through these scholarships. This scholarship empowers me to strike a harmonious balance; pursuing my nursing career while still being able to fulfill my passions on the water," Gabrielle says.

Joaquin Mendoza of Truckee, California has been chosen as the 2023 recipient of the $5,000 Kyle P. Tate Scholarship. Joaquin an incoming Junior at San Diego State University and is studying Computer Science.

“I feel very privileged to be chosen as this year’s Kyle P. Tate scholarship recipient. The waterski community has woven so tightly into my life in college, so receiving such a gracious award for my commitment to this community is an incredibly motivating gesture that I will never take for granted," he says.

Matthew Leach of Round Rock, Texas has been chosen as the 2023 recipient of the $1,000 Kent Williams & Alton Ball Kingsmen Scholarship. Matthew is an incoming Senior at Texas State University and is studying Communications.

He says, "This scholarship will help my education by alleviating some of the stress of balancing my work, life, school, and ski balance. I am starting my final year attending Texas State University and this scholarship will help relieve some stress as classes get harder while I also plan my career after college."

Markus Mortenson has been chosen as the 2023 recipient of the $2,200 "Banana George" Blair Ambassador Scholarship. Markus is from Plano, Texas and is a Junior at Southern Methodist University studying Engineering.

Markus says, "I am honored to receive this scholarship which honors George Blair and the amazing work he did as an ambassador for the sport of waterskiing. I hope to follow my waterski journey in a manner similar to how George did: in a relentless and passionate pursuit while promoting the multi-generational sport."

Keelie Plessner has been chosen as one of the winners of the $1,500 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship. Keelie will be a junior this fall, studying Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Keelie says, "I am beyond excited to be granted the Tim Olson Scholarship. It is an honor to represent this foundation while being able to focus on my education and further promote the sport I love."

Emma Applegate of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida has won the $1000 Florida Water Ski Federation Scholarship.  Emma is an incoming Freshman at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin majoring in Exercise Science in the Direct Entry Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program.

"I am so grateful for the 2022 Florida Water Ski Federation Scholarship. It will greatly help me towards my water skiing dreams and aspirations!" says Emma who spends summers skiing on Lake Harding in Alaska.

Blaze Grubbs of Rio Lina, California is the winner of the $1500 "Big Al" Wagner - Western Region Scholarship. Blaze is an incoming freshman, planning to study Aeronautical Management Technology at Arizona State University. Blaze has also previously won the USA-WWF Dr. J.D. Morgan Boys 5 Scholarship in 2020 and 2021, awarded to the National Overall Champion at the U.S. Nationals.

"This scholarship means a lot to me because it shows that there are people within our incredible sport who really care about young skiers' futures. Thank you to the Morgan family and others for their generous donations and I look forward to paying-it-forward to young skiers in the future," Blaze says.

Alexa Berens of Prior Lake, Minnesota is the 2022 recipient of the $10,000  Barbara Bolding/Jim Grew Scholarship. Lexi is a Senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in Biology.

The USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation scholarships are awarded each year to water skiers who show leadership abilities and demonstrate that involvement in the sport has helped them grow both personally and academically.

"I’m thankful for this opportunity granted to me by the USA Waterski & Wake Sports Foundation.

The two most important things in my life are my education and waterskiing. Throughout my college career it has been an honor promoting and spreading the joy of the amazing waterski community," says Lexi.

Lexi is a scion of the water skiing community and does it all.  She skied her first ski show at Tommy Bartlett's when she was just 12 years old and skied there until the legendary show closed down.

Lexi currently competes on the University of Wisconsin's Collegiate Water Ski Team where she competes in all three events: slalom, tricks, and jumping.  Lexi and the team qualified for D1 Collegiate Nationals and the Collegiate All-Stars tournament.

Lexi is also captain of the Twin Cities River Rats Waterski Show Team where she performs in several acts including Swivel.  She competes in the open division of the Flaunt It Tour and has won several competitions.  Lexi is also an amazing barefooter and trains in Florida at the World Barefoot Center several times a year.

“I’m extremely honored to receive the Barbara Bolding/Jim Grew scholarship. Waterskiing continues to be a major part of my life and knowing that my passion for the sport gave me this amazing opportunity to help further my education is beyond inspirational," says Lexi.

Megan Adams of Center City, Minnesota has been chosen as the 2022 recipient of the $1,500 Jennifer Odom/Dave Kammerer Memorial Scholarship. Megan is a Junior World Barefoot Overall Champion and an Open Women's Competitor. She will be a sophomore at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and is studying engineering.

"I feel very grateful and honored to receive this amazing scholarship from USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation. This scholarship  will greatly enhance my education because it will help pay for my education, so I can focus more on classes during the school year and barefoot waterskiing during the summer," Megan says.

Sierra Klinchuch of Caldwell, Idaho is the recipient of the $2500 Lucille Avila Ortiz Scholarship. Sierra will be a Freshman at Florida Southern College and plans to become a dentist.

"It’s an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to receive this scholarship. I am grateful for the financial assistance that will help me focus more on my education, my skiing, and time with my team," says Sierra

Kendra Nathan of Canyon Lake, California has been chosen as the recipient of the $2500 Richard Avila Scholarship. Kendra will be a Freshman at the University of Louisiana - Lafayette majoring in Education.

Kendra was also the recipient of the 2018 AWSA Girls2 Overall Scholarship in the amount of $500 and the 2020 Linda Giddens Girls 4 Overall Scholarship in the amount of $1,000.  Those awards were held in escrow by the foundation and will now be released for Kendra's tuition.

Ryan Houser from Morrow, Ohio has won the $7,000 Dave Goode Memorial Scholarship. Ryan will be attending Purdue University in the fall and is pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering.

"I am incredibly honored to receive such an award from a Foundation that represents innovation in a sport which has been a massive part of my life and my family for so long," he says.

The Dave Goode Memorial Scholarship was established in 2021 and is awarded to Midwest Region skiers who are pursuing a career in Engineering or Mathematics.

"With this award from the Dave Goode Memorial Foundation, the financial burden I have undertaken by attending Purdue has been lessened," Ryan says.

"For that, I cannot thank Dawn Goode, the Foundation, and the USA-WWF enough."

Matayla De Bruin has been chosen as one of the winners of the $1,500 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship. Matayla will be a senior this fall, studying nursing at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

"I am so thankful to receive the Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship," she says. "Tim Olson had an amazing legacy especially in water skiing and show skiing. He was so generous and always had a passion for improving and growing the sport. Tim Olson was an amazing instructor and show skier. I am so honored to continue on his legacy."

Paige Peshina has been named the second recipient of this year's $1500 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship. Paige is from Malvern, Ohio, and is a sophomore at Rollins College majoring in social entrepreneurship.  She is a swivel ski coach and instructor and will be competing on the U.S. Team this fall in the 2022 World Show Ski World Championships in Winter Haven, Florida.

For the second year in a row, Nicholas Kerr of Forsyth, Georgia has been chosen as the 2022 recipient of the $2000 Elmer Stailing Southern Region Scholarship. Nicholas is a Senior at the University of Georgia majoring in Biology.

"This serves as another reminder of the benefits of water skiing and investing time into the water skiing community. I hope to use my time and talents to give back to the waterskiing community as a thank you for this scholarship," says Nicholas.