2025 News & Events
2025 IWSA Awards Banquet Wrap Up
The annual IWSA Awards and Banquet Dinner was held at Kodiak Lake on November 1st, 2025.
The board of directors held their annual meeting and formed a new Board of Directors for 2026. Tournament selection for 2026 and the site of the Indiana State Championships was also decided. (the new 2026 Board of Directors, Tournament Schedule, and Indiana Championships host will appear on the web site soon) A general membership meeting and awards ceremony after the dinner was hosted by "MC" Kent Hoops (he missed his calling!) who awarded several skiers with official plaques.
Maggie and Joe Cramer - Officials of the Year
Jenna Bucher - Female Skier of the Year
Brandon Bucher - Comeback Skier of the Year
Hudson McCullough - Jumper of the Year
Paxton McCullough - Jr. Female Skier of the Year
Cody Sharkey - Male Skier of the Year
Sean Frietag - Newcomer Skier of the Year
An additional group of skiers who participated in water skiing activities during the 2025 season were also recognized with Certificates of Achievement.
Connelly Clark
Daisy Clark
Leo Sharkey
Jackson Sharkey
Bradley Newton
Karly Detty
Many thanks to Kodiak Lake and the McCullough family for organizing and hosting the event.
(*Indiana State Championship Tournament will be held on July 25th-26th, 2026 at Kodiak Lake)
The board of directors held their annual meeting and formed a new Board of Directors for 2026. Tournament selection for 2026 and the site of the Indiana State Championships was also decided. (the new 2026 Board of Directors, Tournament Schedule, and Indiana Championships host will appear on the web site soon) A general membership meeting and awards ceremony after the dinner was hosted by "MC" Kent Hoops (he missed his calling!) who awarded several skiers with official plaques.
Maggie and Joe Cramer - Officials of the Year
Jenna Bucher - Female Skier of the Year
Brandon Bucher - Comeback Skier of the Year
Hudson McCullough - Jumper of the Year
Paxton McCullough - Jr. Female Skier of the Year
Cody Sharkey - Male Skier of the Year
Sean Frietag - Newcomer Skier of the Year
An additional group of skiers who participated in water skiing activities during the 2025 season were also recognized with Certificates of Achievement.
Connelly Clark
Daisy Clark
Leo Sharkey
Jackson Sharkey
Bradley Newton
Karly Detty
Many thanks to Kodiak Lake and the McCullough family for organizing and hosting the event.
(*Indiana State Championship Tournament will be held on July 25th-26th, 2026 at Kodiak Lake)
2025 IWSA Fall Banquet & Awards Dinner
Steve Plummer Celebration of Life 9-27-2025
With that spirit, we invite you to join us in celebrating Steve’s extraordinary life and legacy. We’ll gather at Tippecanoe Lake Country Club in Leesburg, IN, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 12 p.m. Let’s honor Steve the way he lived — surrounded by community, filled with laughter, and rooted in love.
Fellowship from noon to 12:30 after which several people will share memories of Steve, then lunch at 1:00
Fellowship from noon to 12:30 after which several people will share memories of Steve, then lunch at 1:00
2025 Mastercraft Pro
September 19–20, the best skiers in the world are throwing it down for podium spots, prize money, and prestige. From 9 to 5, you’ll see head-to-head competition, insane talent, and the ProStar doing what it does best: pulling the pros to the limit.
Come hang with us and catch the action up close or tune in to the live webcast, powered by TWBC.
Live scores and start lists https://www.iwwfed-ea.org/classic/25MCPRO/
Event page https://www.waterskiprotour.com/mastercraft-pro
Webcast Links
Come hang with us and catch the action up close or tune in to the live webcast, powered by TWBC.
Live scores and start lists https://www.iwwfed-ea.org/classic/25MCPRO/
Event page https://www.waterskiprotour.com/mastercraft-pro
Webcast Links
- Sep 19 - Day 1 https://www.youtube.com/live/BBBp5R4ZFeg?si=TB1mK3ktuzVMU2m0
- Sep 20 - Day 2 https://www.youtube.com/live/W3yJxE-OTuI?si=2aKDUyG_vfeL-8Tz
Purdue Wins Rip Fest
Purdue wins the RIP FEST event!
The Boilermakers were able to keep the hot streak alive with another victory at the Spartan Rip Fest, hosted by the MSU Water Ski organization. Following a hard fought effort by the slalom team through the pouring rain on Saturday morning, Sept 13th, they were able to keep the momentum rolling throughout the trick and jump events. The 2 day event was held at Forest Lake near South Haven, Michigan. Competing teams along with Purdue were Michigan State U, University of Michigan, University of Illinois, and Grand Valley State University. The Purdue skiers will compete next weekend at Van Wert in northern Ohio. Also on the schedule is Midwest Regionals in Decatur, Ill. and Nationals in Imperial Lakes in Imperial, CA.
GO BOILERMAKERS!!
The Boilermakers were able to keep the hot streak alive with another victory at the Spartan Rip Fest, hosted by the MSU Water Ski organization. Following a hard fought effort by the slalom team through the pouring rain on Saturday morning, Sept 13th, they were able to keep the momentum rolling throughout the trick and jump events. The 2 day event was held at Forest Lake near South Haven, Michigan. Competing teams along with Purdue were Michigan State U, University of Michigan, University of Illinois, and Grand Valley State University. The Purdue skiers will compete next weekend at Van Wert in northern Ohio. Also on the schedule is Midwest Regionals in Decatur, Ill. and Nationals in Imperial Lakes in Imperial, CA.
GO BOILERMAKERS!!
2025 IWSA Skiers Awards Nominations Form
We need Skiers Awards nominations to be submitted by October 12, 2025.
Let's showcase the amazing skiers and their accomplishments from this past season!!
Let's showcase the amazing skiers and their accomplishments from this past season!!
Cindonway Shores Labor Day Tournament
It's simply "tradition" to attend the Annual Labor Day Weekend Tournament at Cindonway Shores sponsored by the Bucher Families. The conditions were calm and glassy and allowed for several "PB's." A group of Notre Dame skiers spiced up the event, participating in slalom, trick, and jumping. (We saw several slalom runs on two skis and tricking on wake boards!) A surprise to all was the COLD WATER! Perhaps from running a well pump for several days prior to keep the water level up. And let us not overlook the "lasagna buffet" put out and served by Peggy Bucher for all to enjoy. Several of us ended up the day at the final show in Warsaw presented by the Lake City Skiers show team. (Theme was Pirates of the Caribbean)
Now that Indiana Tournaments are finished, It's time to put the thinking caps on and remember events and individuals for nominations at the annual IWSA banquet, place and time yet to be determined.
Now that Indiana Tournaments are finished, It's time to put the thinking caps on and remember events and individuals for nominations at the annual IWSA banquet, place and time yet to be determined.
Kodiak Lake Tournament Wrap Up
Now that "Nationals" are over with, it's time to post some scores for 2026!
Kodiak Lake stepped up to the challenge on August 23rd-24th with a 3 event offering. There were 49 registered slalom skiers, 30 trickers, and 17 jumpers. In addition to water skiing, the Kodiak Lake site is a "go to destination" with plenty of activities for the youngsters. One youngster learned that 4-wheelers do not float! Noteworthy, perfect conditions gave all the skiers the opportunity to rack up some scores for next season.
Watch the USA Water Ski site for future tournaments.
Kodiak Lake stepped up to the challenge on August 23rd-24th with a 3 event offering. There were 49 registered slalom skiers, 30 trickers, and 17 jumpers. In addition to water skiing, the Kodiak Lake site is a "go to destination" with plenty of activities for the youngsters. One youngster learned that 4-wheelers do not float! Noteworthy, perfect conditions gave all the skiers the opportunity to rack up some scores for next season.
Watch the USA Water Ski site for future tournaments.
Steve Plummer 1953-2025
Jeremy Plummer
It is with love and sadness that we share the passing of Steve Plummer — a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Steve was the kind of person who showed up, rolled up his sleeves, and made everyone around him feel seen and supported. He lived his life with generosity, humility, and an infectious joy for the people and passions he loved most.
If you knew Steve, you knew his heart belonged to his family — and to the lake. A lifelong presence on the water, Steve’s dedication to the waterski community was unmatched, and his impact rippled far beyond the shoreline. He wasn’t just part of the community — he helped build it.
As his son, I couldn’t be more grateful to have had a father who stood by me in every chapter of my life. His belief in me, and in all of us, never wavered.
With that spirit, we invite you to join us in celebrating Steve’s extraordinary life and legacy. We’ll gather at Tippecanoe Lake Country Club in Leesburg, IN, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 12 p.m. Let’s honor Steve the way he lived — surrounded by community, filled with laughter, and rooted in love.
It is with love and sadness that we share the passing of Steve Plummer — a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Steve was the kind of person who showed up, rolled up his sleeves, and made everyone around him feel seen and supported. He lived his life with generosity, humility, and an infectious joy for the people and passions he loved most.
If you knew Steve, you knew his heart belonged to his family — and to the lake. A lifelong presence on the water, Steve’s dedication to the waterski community was unmatched, and his impact rippled far beyond the shoreline. He wasn’t just part of the community — he helped build it.
As his son, I couldn’t be more grateful to have had a father who stood by me in every chapter of my life. His belief in me, and in all of us, never wavered.
With that spirit, we invite you to join us in celebrating Steve’s extraordinary life and legacy. We’ll gather at Tippecanoe Lake Country Club in Leesburg, IN, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 12 p.m. Let’s honor Steve the way he lived — surrounded by community, filled with laughter, and rooted in love.
2025 Regionals Participants
Congratulations to all participants (with Indiana connections) in the Liquid Edge Midwest Regional Championships held last week in Maize Kansas.
Cale Burdick
Chris Clark
Colten Hoops
Samantha Hoops
Wyatt Bucher
Jacob Bucher
Marla Lott
John Kniesly
Rhett Bucher
Joy Bucher
Jenna Gilbert
Brooke Burdick
Coltin Bucher
Bryan Burney
Michelle Bucher
Jenna Bucher
Laura Burdick
Camille Tranchita
Jada Bucher
Dane Burdick
Don Bucher
Cale Burdick
Chris Clark
Colten Hoops
Samantha Hoops
Wyatt Bucher
Jacob Bucher
Marla Lott
John Kniesly
Rhett Bucher
Joy Bucher
Jenna Gilbert
Brooke Burdick
Coltin Bucher
Bryan Burney
Michelle Bucher
Jenna Bucher
Laura Burdick
Camille Tranchita
Jada Bucher
Dane Burdick
Don Bucher
2025 Indiana State Water Ski Championships Recap
The 76th Indiana Water Ski Championships is now in the record book.
Lots of applause for Abby Tranchita and the Timberlake crew for putting out the welcome mat to all the Indiana water skiers on Saturday, July 19th. The day went smoothly until a 2 hour delay in the afternoon while the sky opened up and drenched the event. Finally the sky cleared, the boats were uncovered, and the jump and trick sections were completed in time for a 7:30 PM banquet and awards ceremony. In addition to the regular skier placement awards, the Rollie Williams was given to Shannon and Kati McCullough for their commitment to water skiing in Indiana.
Two $500 Barb Miller Scholarships were awarded to Samantha Hoops and Charlie Cross for the coming school year. An unofficial award was announced for team participation, 3rd place was to Kokomo Ski Club, 2nd place was to Cindonway Shores, and 1st place was to Kodiak Lake. The best crash award was given to Bster Detty for his spectacular crash landing in the trick events. (Thank goodness there were no injuries at this tournament!) Congratulations to Jacob Bucher for joining the "century club" with his 101 foot jump. (The award included in impromptu "dunking!") Let us not ignore the unofficial "comeback skier award" won by Brandon Bucher who has not skied in a tournament for a very long time,, demonstrating his dock take-offs for both slalom and trick events.
Looking forward to Regionals in Kansas and Nationals in California.
Lots of applause for Abby Tranchita and the Timberlake crew for putting out the welcome mat to all the Indiana water skiers on Saturday, July 19th. The day went smoothly until a 2 hour delay in the afternoon while the sky opened up and drenched the event. Finally the sky cleared, the boats were uncovered, and the jump and trick sections were completed in time for a 7:30 PM banquet and awards ceremony. In addition to the regular skier placement awards, the Rollie Williams was given to Shannon and Kati McCullough for their commitment to water skiing in Indiana.
Two $500 Barb Miller Scholarships were awarded to Samantha Hoops and Charlie Cross for the coming school year. An unofficial award was announced for team participation, 3rd place was to Kokomo Ski Club, 2nd place was to Cindonway Shores, and 1st place was to Kodiak Lake. The best crash award was given to Bster Detty for his spectacular crash landing in the trick events. (Thank goodness there were no injuries at this tournament!) Congratulations to Jacob Bucher for joining the "century club" with his 101 foot jump. (The award included in impromptu "dunking!") Let us not ignore the unofficial "comeback skier award" won by Brandon Bucher who has not skied in a tournament for a very long time,, demonstrating his dock take-offs for both slalom and trick events.
Looking forward to Regionals in Kansas and Nationals in California.
2025 States Running Order (Unofficial)
Donate to Nationals Livestream Fundraiser
AWSA Nationals Livestream Fundraiser
We are seeking support to fund the livestream production of the AWSA Goode Water Ski Nationals—ensuring high-quality coverage for families, supporters, and the broader waterski community who are unable to attend in person.
https://gofund.me/19610255
#followers #everyone #WaterSki #slalom #tricks #3event
We are seeking support to fund the livestream production of the AWSA Goode Water Ski Nationals—ensuring high-quality coverage for families, supporters, and the broader waterski community who are unable to attend in person.
https://gofund.me/19610255
#followers #everyone #WaterSki #slalom #tricks #3event
Silent Shores Tournament
It was a bit "breezy" at the Silent Shores Tournament on Saturday, July 12th. That didn't seem to bother Steve Florian who skied his tournament "PB" skiing 1.5 buoys at 32' off 34 miles per hour. Later in the day, Mario Giannini from Cedar Lake, Indiana skied his tournament "PB" also. This 2 event tournament finished up the day with trickers. Skier Sung Namgung won the most colorful skier award with a new orange life jacket! Skier Erin Parham from Purdue had car/battery issues when leaving....but there were a bevy of helpers gathered around to get her car started. Everyone is looking forward to this weekend's Indiana's State Championships to be held at Timberlake near Evansville, Indiana.
Cody Sharkey Makes the 2025 Senior 35+ Pan Am Team
HUGE Shout out to Cody Sharkey, who has been selected and will compete at the 2025 35+ Pan American Championships, to be held at Shortline Lakes, Santa Rosa Beach, FL, on October 1-5.
Cody skied as an Independent in 2023, earning a Bronze medal in Tricks. Then, he qualified for last year's 2024 World's in Spain, but was unable to attend due to work commitments.
This is his first year on the US Team and has qualified in all three events.
Best of luck and ski well, Cody!!
For more information, go to USA Water Ski & Wake Sports.org
Cody skied as an Independent in 2023, earning a Bronze medal in Tricks. Then, he qualified for last year's 2024 World's in Spain, but was unable to attend due to work commitments.
This is his first year on the US Team and has qualified in all three events.
Best of luck and ski well, Cody!!
For more information, go to USA Water Ski & Wake Sports.org
Noah Vieke Ski Clinic
Noah Vieke was in town for July 10th-12th and conducted his annual July water ski clinic out at beautiful Emerald Lake. He also brought along his 2 children and wife for a visit with grandparents. Thanks to Neal Clark for bringing along a new Mastercraft Prostar supplied by The Liquid Edge in Farmer City, Illinois. See you all at the Indiana State Championships at Timberlake on July 19th.
IMPORTANT STATES UPDATE
Hello IN Skiers,
Thank YOU for getting your registration in! We are so excited to host you all at Timberlake in a few short weeks!
Unfortunately, registration through USA Water Ski is incorrectly providing free banquet tickets with the skier entry. We have requested their help to get this corrected. Banquet tickets are $20 each, even for skiers. It will be a meal offering pulled chicken and pulled pork on site following the tournament. Kids under 10 eat for free! We would love to have you join us!
If you are intending to come to the banquet please email me back and let me know how many will be attending. We will worry about payment when you arrive on site. :-)
Lastly - if you haven't ordered a tshirt yet, but want to - TODAY is the last day to order. Here is the link to order: https://form.jotform.com/251697016357059
Please don't hesitate to reach out with any further questions!
Ski ya soon!
Thank YOU for getting your registration in! We are so excited to host you all at Timberlake in a few short weeks!
Unfortunately, registration through USA Water Ski is incorrectly providing free banquet tickets with the skier entry. We have requested their help to get this corrected. Banquet tickets are $20 each, even for skiers. It will be a meal offering pulled chicken and pulled pork on site following the tournament. Kids under 10 eat for free! We would love to have you join us!
If you are intending to come to the banquet please email me back and let me know how many will be attending. We will worry about payment when you arrive on site. :-)
Lastly - if you haven't ordered a tshirt yet, but want to - TODAY is the last day to order. Here is the link to order: https://form.jotform.com/251697016357059
Please don't hesitate to reach out with any further questions!
Ski ya soon!
Champion Lake Spring Record Tournament
Perfect water ski conditions at the Champion Lake Spring Record made everyone happy. The date was originally scheduled for Sunday, June 29th but surprise surgery for Scott Tynan caused the cancellation of the Sawmill Tournament so, Champion Lake stepped up! (Word is Scott is at home and doing well! We hope to see him back on the water soon!) Thirty six skiers took to the "orange peel" conditions at Champion Lake and skied late into the evening. It was encouraging to see several newcomers and youngsters competing for scores at this event. Next Indiana tournament will be next weekend ( July 5th-6th ) at Cindonway Shores.
Register for State Championships ASAP
State will be here before we know it! It's only 3 WEEKS AWAY!
We need your help to get things fine tuned! Some reminders & important deadlines!
*Registration - We only have a few entries and know there are many more skiers coming! Please get your registration completed ASAP!
*Hotel - The Fairfield Inn West in Evansville, IN has rooms blocked for the IN State Water Ski Tournament. Be sure to reserve rooms by July 3rd to get the reduced rate!
Phone: 812-429-0900
*Camping - There will be camping available, but there will not be any hook-ups available. Please reach out to Mark Schmitt [email protected]
*Parking - Parking area will be labeled, but will again be near the starting dock (8001 Timberlake Drive, Mount Vernon, IN 47620). Please don't pull in yards or drives unless they are marked for parking.
*Banquet - We will be hosting a banquet on-site following the tournament. You can purchase your banquet tickets with your registration on USA Water Ski. If you plan to attend and missed adding the tickets when you register please reach out to Abby so we can plan accordingly [email protected] Tickets will be $20 and will include a pulled pork / pulled chicken dinner. 10 years old and under are free!
*T-shirts - Order here! Pre-orders only by July 6 - no extras available on site. https://form.jotform.com/251697016357059
*Officials - As we all know - it takes a village to make the event happen! If you are a rated official or would like to volunteer in any way - please reach out to Abby [email protected]! We appreciate any and all help!
*Practice - Practice will be available Friday evening after 4 PM for $10
*Lunch - We will have deli sandwiches available for purchase on-site for lunch
We need your help to get things fine tuned! Some reminders & important deadlines!
*Registration - We only have a few entries and know there are many more skiers coming! Please get your registration completed ASAP!
*Hotel - The Fairfield Inn West in Evansville, IN has rooms blocked for the IN State Water Ski Tournament. Be sure to reserve rooms by July 3rd to get the reduced rate!
Phone: 812-429-0900
*Camping - There will be camping available, but there will not be any hook-ups available. Please reach out to Mark Schmitt [email protected]
*Parking - Parking area will be labeled, but will again be near the starting dock (8001 Timberlake Drive, Mount Vernon, IN 47620). Please don't pull in yards or drives unless they are marked for parking.
*Banquet - We will be hosting a banquet on-site following the tournament. You can purchase your banquet tickets with your registration on USA Water Ski. If you plan to attend and missed adding the tickets when you register please reach out to Abby so we can plan accordingly [email protected] Tickets will be $20 and will include a pulled pork / pulled chicken dinner. 10 years old and under are free!
*T-shirts - Order here! Pre-orders only by July 6 - no extras available on site. https://form.jotform.com/251697016357059
*Officials - As we all know - it takes a village to make the event happen! If you are a rated official or would like to volunteer in any way - please reach out to Abby [email protected]! We appreciate any and all help!
*Practice - Practice will be available Friday evening after 4 PM for $10
*Lunch - We will have deli sandwiches available for purchase on-site for lunch
Junior Development Clinic at Kodiak Lake Ski Club
The annual Junior Development Clinic was at full capacity and held on June 5th and 6th at Kodiak Lake, West of Danville, Indiana. This was a bit moist with showers most of the day, but that didn't stop the boat, a 2025 MasterCraft Prostar nicknamed the “Black Widow”, from pulling skiers throughout the day. Friday was more weather appropriate with "glass" conditions all day. We had several USA Waterski National Champions who joined us this year to give back to the sport they love by coaching our juniors. Thanks to all the coaches and adults who volunteered their time and expertise. Special thanks to Kodiak Lake for opening their doors to all the skiers and HO Sports who supplied us with a Tent for shade and some gear for the kids to rip on.
Let's not forget Kent Hoops who was the "ring leader" for this event.
Let's not forget Kent Hoops who was the "ring leader" for this event.
2025 Indiana State Water Ski Tournament Info
Timberlake is hosting the 2025 IN State Water Ski Tournament!
We are looking forward to having all the Indiana skiers join us in southern Indiana for the event!
We will begin Saturday, July 19th at 7:00 AM CST. We intend to get all events completed on Saturday. It’s difficult to predict the weather, unexpected scratches, etc - we will not be able to give an estimation of events / divisions. We hope you will plan to spend the day with your fellow IN skiers at Timberlake!
See schedule of events and register here: IN State Water Ski Tournament
Follow along on Facebook: Indiana State Water Ski Tournament
A few details we would like to share:
*Hotel - The Fairfield Inn West in Evansville, IN has rooms blocked for the IN State Water Ski Tournament. Be sure to reserve rooms by July 3rd to get the reduced rate!
Phone: 812-429-0900
*Camping - There will be camping available, but there will not be any hook-ups available. Please reach out to Mark Schmitt: [email protected]
*Banquet - We will be hosting a banquet on-site following the tournament. You can purchase your banquet tickets with your registration on USA Water Ski. If you plan to attend and missed adding the tickets when you register please reach out to Abby so we can plan accordingly: [email protected]
*T-shirts - We will be sharing a link to order shirts soon! There will not be any extras available on-site. These will be pre-order only!
*Officials - As we all know - it takes a village to make the event happen! If you are a rated official or would like to volunteer in any way - please reach out to Abby [email protected]!
We appreciate any and all help!
*Practice - Practice will be available Friday evening after 4 PM for $10
*Lunch - We will have deli sandwiches available for purchase on-site for lunch
We are looking forward to having all the Indiana skiers join us in southern Indiana for the event!
We will begin Saturday, July 19th at 7:00 AM CST. We intend to get all events completed on Saturday. It’s difficult to predict the weather, unexpected scratches, etc - we will not be able to give an estimation of events / divisions. We hope you will plan to spend the day with your fellow IN skiers at Timberlake!
See schedule of events and register here: IN State Water Ski Tournament
Follow along on Facebook: Indiana State Water Ski Tournament
A few details we would like to share:
*Hotel - The Fairfield Inn West in Evansville, IN has rooms blocked for the IN State Water Ski Tournament. Be sure to reserve rooms by July 3rd to get the reduced rate!
Phone: 812-429-0900
*Camping - There will be camping available, but there will not be any hook-ups available. Please reach out to Mark Schmitt: [email protected]
*Banquet - We will be hosting a banquet on-site following the tournament. You can purchase your banquet tickets with your registration on USA Water Ski. If you plan to attend and missed adding the tickets when you register please reach out to Abby so we can plan accordingly: [email protected]
*T-shirts - We will be sharing a link to order shirts soon! There will not be any extras available on-site. These will be pre-order only!
*Officials - As we all know - it takes a village to make the event happen! If you are a rated official or would like to volunteer in any way - please reach out to Abby [email protected]!
We appreciate any and all help!
*Practice - Practice will be available Friday evening after 4 PM for $10
*Lunch - We will have deli sandwiches available for purchase on-site for lunch
Don Bucher Bio 2025 USA Waterski Lifetime Achievement
Don Bucher is an Indiana farmer who has been active in water skiing for nearly 70 years. He is a member of the Indiana Water Ski Hall of Fame and a water skiing legend in the Midwest. Don was eight years old when he hit the water for the first time and has never looked back. He started doing ski shows with the Dewart Lake (Indiana) skiers when he was just 10. Don entered his first Indiana State Tournament in jump competition in 1964, and from there, Don went on to rack up accomplishments on and off the water. He qualified for his first nationals in 2001 and was the Midwest region Men's 6 Slalom Champion in 2008. Don has held ratings as a Senior Judge, Senior Driver, Senior Scorer, State Safety Director, Announcer, and Instructor. A longtime tournament director, Don helped organize the first two Indiana State Show Tournaments at Dewart Lake in 1971-72 and the State Tournament held at Pike Lake in Warsaw, Indiana, in 1973. Don started the Water Ski Inc. Ski Team with Jerry Hickman at Hidden Lake in Warsaw, Indiana, in 1974 and organized the Hoosier Classic Pro Water Ski Tournaments from 1975 to 1978. "It was always our mission to provide the very best competition opportunities for water skiers and the very best events," says Don. "It was about great times, great memories, meeting people, and just being involved in water skiing." Don built the first man-made ski lake in Indiana in 1978: Cindonway Shores. With his wife, Peggy, and the Water Ski Inc. Team, Don has hosted hundreds of sanctioned events at Cindonway Shores since 1983. In 1986, Don received the coveted Rollie Williams Award for his contributions to water skiing. Don is a super official and is always one of the first to step up to help. At the Midwest Regionals, he has served as Chief Judge, Chief Driver, Chief Announcer, and Appointed Judge and Driver nearly every year. At the AWSA Nationals, he served as an Appointed Driver in 1990 and 2000. He was Appointed Judge in 1999, 2002, 2007, 2008, and 2009, Assigned Judge in 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, and 2004, Appointed Scorer in 2006, and Assistant Chief Judge in 2005. Don has also led water skiing from several board positions, including Midwest Region Executive Vice President 1999-2006, AWSA Board of Directors - 1997-2009, AWSA Vice President 2001-2007, USA Water Ski Board of Directors - Midwest Director 1999-2009 and Chairman of USA Water Ski Board of Directors 2008-2009. And he currently serves on the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Board of Trustees. But for Don, the most rewarding part of his water skiing journey is now watching seven of his nine grandchildren water ski. Four of those grandkids were on the podium at least once at the 2024 Goode AWSA Water Ski Nationals. "It's so nice to see the next generation on the water. I will continue to compete as long as I can because my grandchildren want me to ski in tournaments with them," says Don. Don is still looking for ways to grow and contribute to our sport, including passing the handle!
Don Bucher 2025 Lifetime Achievement Video
The 230 Foot or 70 Meter Jump Club
Ian Faulkner
·
70M CLUB.
In the late 1950s 1960s a cloth Century Club patch was available for skiers who jumped 100 feet or more. By the late 1970s this group of skiers had grown into the 1000s including many women using the much lower ramp height and boat speed. In 1983 Glenn Thurlow jumped 202 feet at the Moomba Masters and the 200 foot club commenced. Membership was slow up to 1996 then with the introduction of the much longer jump skis the 200 foot club membership gained momentum. Still an exclusive group of skiers although there are now over 170 skiers who have officially cleared 200 feet. The data now includes the amazing 5 times World Jump Champion Jacinta Carroll.
A new bench mark club has emerged, the 70M CLUB. This very very exclusive club is for skiers who have officially cleared 70 metres (230 feet). There are currently only 15 skiers in the 70M CLUB.
Jaret Llewellyn(CAN) 4 x World Jump records, 1992,99,99,2002
Scot Ellis, USA Rocket man
Jimmy Siemers USA 2 x World Jump records 2000,02
Freddy Krueger USA 8 x World Jump records 1999,2002,05,05,05,06,08, 2014
Jesper Cassoe USA
Ryan Fitts USA
Zack Worden USA
Ryan Dodd (CAN) Current World Jump Record holder 77.4m
Jason Seels (GB)
Mark Lane USA
Bojan Schnipner (GER)
Taylor Garcia USA
Felipe Miranda Chile
Jack Critchley (GB)
Dorian Llewellyn (CAN)
·
70M CLUB.
In the late 1950s 1960s a cloth Century Club patch was available for skiers who jumped 100 feet or more. By the late 1970s this group of skiers had grown into the 1000s including many women using the much lower ramp height and boat speed. In 1983 Glenn Thurlow jumped 202 feet at the Moomba Masters and the 200 foot club commenced. Membership was slow up to 1996 then with the introduction of the much longer jump skis the 200 foot club membership gained momentum. Still an exclusive group of skiers although there are now over 170 skiers who have officially cleared 200 feet. The data now includes the amazing 5 times World Jump Champion Jacinta Carroll.
A new bench mark club has emerged, the 70M CLUB. This very very exclusive club is for skiers who have officially cleared 70 metres (230 feet). There are currently only 15 skiers in the 70M CLUB.
Jaret Llewellyn(CAN) 4 x World Jump records, 1992,99,99,2002
Scot Ellis, USA Rocket man
Jimmy Siemers USA 2 x World Jump records 2000,02
Freddy Krueger USA 8 x World Jump records 1999,2002,05,05,05,06,08, 2014
Jesper Cassoe USA
Ryan Fitts USA
Zack Worden USA
Ryan Dodd (CAN) Current World Jump Record holder 77.4m
Jason Seels (GB)
Mark Lane USA
Bojan Schnipner (GER)
Taylor Garcia USA
Felipe Miranda Chile
Jack Critchley (GB)
Dorian Llewellyn (CAN)
TWBC: Episode 2 of The Rise Of Waterskiing
Revised 2025 IWSA Event Calendar
April 2025 AWSA Midwest Region Newsletter
Revised 2025 IWSA Event Calendar
March 2025 AWSA Midwest Region Newsletter
TWBC: Episode 1 of The Rise of Waterskiing
Tentative 2025 IWSA Event Calendar
Last Weekend For Boat, Sport & Travel Show
Hey Skiers,
The Indianapolis Boat, Sport, and Travel Show began on February 14th and continues through this next weekend. There were even some displays of interest to skiers. Some skis were available and, don't miss Twiggy the waterskiing squirrel, so fun! With lots of snow this past weekend, the Paradise Party Island looked inviting!
The Spring Thaw is just around the corner!
For all times, dates, ticket info and directions, please visit:
Website: https://indianapolisboatsportandtravelshow.com/
Tickets/Pricing: https://indianapolisboatsportandtravelshow.com/time-prices-directions/
The Indianapolis Boat, Sport, and Travel Show began on February 14th and continues through this next weekend. There were even some displays of interest to skiers. Some skis were available and, don't miss Twiggy the waterskiing squirrel, so fun! With lots of snow this past weekend, the Paradise Party Island looked inviting!
The Spring Thaw is just around the corner!
For all times, dates, ticket info and directions, please visit:
Website: https://indianapolisboatsportandtravelshow.com/
Tickets/Pricing: https://indianapolisboatsportandtravelshow.com/time-prices-directions/
Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show 2025
70th Indianapolis Boat, Sport and Travel Show
Dates: Friday, February 14, 2025 - Sunday, February 16, 2025
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 - Sunday, February 23, 2025
Venue: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis IN
For 70 years the Ford Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show has been inspiring families to embrace the outdoor lifestyle which includes boating, RVs, fishing, hunting and travel.
The Show is the largest in the nation with more than 750,000 square feet of the great outdoors, indoors. The February dates are the perfect time to gather at the Show. Bring your extended family and plan the trip of a lifetime, or see, touch and compare the new boat, RV, motorcycle or other powersports purchase you've been contemplating. With more than five and a half acres of boats and four and a half acres of RVs you'll find the Midwest's largest selection of new models, and you can meet with hundreds of experts all under one roof and all in one trip!
Website: https://indianapolisboatsportandtravelshow.com/
Tickets/Pricing: https://indianapolisboatsportandtravelshow.com/time-prices-directions/
Dates: Friday, February 14, 2025 - Sunday, February 16, 2025
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 - Sunday, February 23, 2025
Venue: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis IN
For 70 years the Ford Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show has been inspiring families to embrace the outdoor lifestyle which includes boating, RVs, fishing, hunting and travel.
The Show is the largest in the nation with more than 750,000 square feet of the great outdoors, indoors. The February dates are the perfect time to gather at the Show. Bring your extended family and plan the trip of a lifetime, or see, touch and compare the new boat, RV, motorcycle or other powersports purchase you've been contemplating. With more than five and a half acres of boats and four and a half acres of RVs you'll find the Midwest's largest selection of new models, and you can meet with hundreds of experts all under one roof and all in one trip!
Website: https://indianapolisboatsportandtravelshow.com/
Tickets/Pricing: https://indianapolisboatsportandtravelshow.com/time-prices-directions/
