USA Water Ski & Wake Sports & the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports FOUNDATION Explained

The USA Water Ski & Wake Sports and the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation (formerly the USA Water Ski Foundation) are two distinct organizations within the water skiing and wake sports community. Here’s a breakdown of their roles and purposes:

USA Water Ski & Wake Sports

• Purpose: This is the governing body for organized water skiing and wake sports in the United States. It oversees competitive events, promotes participation in the sport, and sets the standards for safety and competition.

• Responsibilities: 

-Organizing competitions and maintaining national rankings.

-Certifying officials, coaches, and instructors.

-Setting safety guidelines for participants and events.

-Supporting a variety of disciplines, including slalom, trick, jump, wakeboarding, and more.

• Focus: Primarily on the competitive and recreational aspects of water skiing and wake sports.

USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation

• Purpose: The Foundation focuses on preserving the history of water skiing and wake sports, promoting the sports' legacy, and providing support through scholarships and fundraising.

• Responsibilities: 

-Operating the Water Ski Hall of Fame, which celebrates the achievements of athletes, coaches, and contributors.

-Awarding scholarships to young athletes pursuing water skiing and wakeboarding.

-Fundraising to support the development of the sport and its community.

• Focus: Education, historical preservation, and promoting the sport's cultural and community aspects.

Key Difference:

• USA Water Ski & Wake Sports is about the active governance and competitive management of the sport.

• USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation is about preserving the sport’s legacy and supporting its growth through historical, educational, and charitable initiatives.