Sierra Klinchurch is Awarded the 2025 Richard Avila Scholarship

Sierra Klinchurch 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.” says Sierra.

“This opportunity not only lifts a financial weight but also strengthens my belief that I can achieve greatness through dedication, perseverance, and community support.”

On a chilly Saturday morning, the Florida Southern Ski Team hosted its first-ever Learn to Ski Day, aimed at introducing beginners to the thrill of waterskiing. With a goal of getting 31 new skiers up on skis in just five hours, the team brought energy, donuts, music, and a lot of heart to the dock.

What started as a simple outreach turned into something much more meaningful. From the first nervous skier to the last one laughing and soaked, it was a day full of unforgettable moments. For the team, especially those coaching and teaching, it was a reminder of why they fell in love with the sport in the first place.

One standout moment came when a hesitant student nearly walked away in fear—but with encouragement and support, she gave it a try and succeeded. That joy and sense of accomplishment rippled through everyone involved, including the team’s strength coach, who once feared the water and is now skiing thanks to continued support from the team.

To cap off the experience, the team performed a ski show for the campus, featuring pyramids, jumps, and tricks. The turnout was impressive, with students and faculty cheering on a sport many had never seen up close. The response was so positive, students are already asking for more.

These events have grown into a tradition of connection and community. More than just a team effort, they’re a way to share a passion, build confidence, and inspire others. As the team continues to organize and expand these experiences, the goal is simple: help others fall in love with skiing and maybe even discover something new about themselves along the way.

The purpose of the Richard Avila 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.

The recipient will be or is currently a student who is registered in a college or University and presents an application to the USA-WWF Scholarship committee for review and selection for each year. Applications will be reviewed by the Avila Family as well.

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.