Emma Goldstein is Awarded the 2025 "Banana George" Blair Ambassador Scholarship

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."   says Emma.

I am grateful to my AWSA and Southern Region family for their unwavering support in helping me achieve both my academic and athletic goals. 

I grew up competing in three-event waterskiing with the constant encouragement of my dad, Greg Goldstein, who skied for the University of Alabama and later became the team’s advisor. His love for the sport inspired me to follow in his footsteps and join the Alabama Water Ski Team.

Once I joined the team, I knew I wanted to do more than just compete, I wanted to make a difference. Since being elected to the officer board, I’ve poured my energy into growing our club and supporting my teammates. From organizing tournaments, clinics, and recruitment events to building relationships with coaches, officials, and boat dealers, I’ve gained leadership experience that’s strengthened both my love for the sport and my ability to serve others.

When I started, our team had just 15 members. Through outreach on campus, interest booths, and countless trips to the lake introducing newcomers to skiing, we’ve grown to over 40 members. Nothing compares to the joy of watching beginners I recruited become skilled skiers and valued teammates.

Alongside growing our club, I’ve also worked to maintain a high level of performance by organizing training weeks and team trials. I’ve taught boat driving lessons and supported team members working toward their judges’ certifications. Making waterskiing more accessible has always been a priority—I’ve led fundraising events like merchandise sales and team dinners at tournaments to help cover costs and equipment for new members.

In addition to my role with the Alabama team, I’ve served for two years on the Southern Atlantic Coastal NCWSA Board of Directors. This has given me the opportunity to help shape the future of collegiate waterskiing through voting on funding decisions and policies that support smaller, developing teams.

Waterskiing has shaped me into the person I am today, building my confidence, leadership, and community. That’s why I’m committed to sharing this sport with as many people as possible and working hard to ensure it continues to thrive.

In the same spirit that made him a legend, "Banana George" Blair continued to give back to water sports and the foundation throughout his life.  George's family has created this scholarship to give student-athletes an opportunity to earn a college education while pursuing their water sports dreams. This scholarship is open to all water sports disciplines

The USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation is very proud of our young athletes and honored to support their future academic needs. You can help support our mission by joining or donating to the foundation.

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Established in 1968, the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation celebrates the history of all towed water sports and promotes these sports through our Scholarship and Collegiate Grant Programs and the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Hall of Fame.