Lauryn DeWitt is Awarded the 2025 Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship

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."   says Lauryn.

Being a part of the show ski community is a unique experience that has provided me with unwavering support and molded me into the person I am today. Receiving the Tim Olson Scholarship has helped to make college more affordable, and it is an honor to know that the waterskiing community believes in me and is willing to invest in my future.

A successful ski team is built not just on talent, but on a legacy, one where older members care more about lifting up the next generation than chasing personal wins. I have seen firsthand how powerful a team can be when everyone is committed to its future.

In 2023, I unexpectedly stepped into the role of Junior Show Director for the Webfooters’ developmental team at just 18 years old. Our director had to step down suddenly, and I embraced the challenge. That season was filled with highs and lows, heartbreaking injuries right before competitions, but also amazing growth and team wins. One of the most meaningful parts of that year was helping younger skiers gain confidence, learn new skills, and find their place on the team. Watching them grow into stronger athletes and teammates was incredibly rewarding.

Though I did not return as director in 2024, I have remained deeply involved with the Webfooters. I perform in acts like swivel, ballet, pyramid basing, and more, which allows me to support a wide range of teammates. This year brought unique challenges, including flooding that kept us from practicing at our home site. Despite that, I committed myself to mentoring new skiers and always prioritized the team over personal recognition.

Sometimes that meant stepping back from acts so newer members could gain experience. I stayed late to run land practices and did my best to keep our team spirit strong, even when it meant skiing off a barge, traveling hours, or practicing in the rain. I realized that a positive attitude can be contagious, and I made it a priority to show up with energy and encouragement, no matter how tough things got.

Our hard work paid off. When we placed fourth at state despite all the obstacles, it was a reminder that team success is far more meaningful than any individual accomplishment. I am proud of the culture we built together and even prouder of the skiers I have mentored who will one day lead the team themselves.

The Tim Olson Memorial Scholarship was established by the family and friends of Tim Olson. A special provision of the scholarship is that it is to be given to a wake boarder or show skier.

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.

DONATE NOW

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.