Southern Illinois University Water Ski Team is a recipient of the 2026 USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation Club Grant
The USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation is proud to award a Collegiate Team Grant to the Southern Illinois University Water Ski Team, affectionately known as the “Saluskis.” The award comes at an exciting time as the team prepares for its second appearance at the National Collegiate Water Ski Association National Championships.
Building a Team and a Tradition
The Saluskis bring a spirit of determination and teamwork to collegiate water skiing. In 2024, the club reached Nationals for the first time in its more than 40 year history, marking a significant milestone for the program.
An October 2024 feature in SIU’s student newspaper described a close group of approximately 15 consistent members competing in slalom, trick and jump. The club also welcomed students without previous water skiing experience, creating opportunities for newcomers to discover the sport and develop their skills alongside experienced teammates.
The team’s growth has included a return to the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, a historic water ski site that hosted national championship events during the 1970s and 1980s. That connection links today’s collegiate athletes with an important part of the sport’s history.
Preparing for the National Stage
The Saluskis are now preparing to represent SIU at the 2026 NCWSA National Championships, scheduled for October 15 through 17 at Bell Acqua Lakes in Rio Linda, California. According to the team’s fundraising campaign, this will be only its second Nationals appearance.
Earning that opportunity required dedicated practice, travel and contributions from teammates throughout the season. Getting to California brings another challenge: covering transportation, lodging, fuel and competition expenses. The team is raising funds to help ensure those costs do not prevent its athletes from participating.
Supporting the Future of Collegiate Water Skiing
The Foundation’s Collegiate Team Grant Program helps teams meet expenses such as equipment, travel, tournament entry fees and training. These grants provide resources that help students continue participating and building their collegiate programs.
We congratulate the Saluskis on their latest grant and their return to Nationals. We also thank the donors and supporters who make the Collegiate Team Grant Program possible. Your generosity helps create opportunities for collegiate athletes and strengthens the future of water skiing.
