Boat Show Reminder
The Indianapolis Boat and Sport and Travel Show begins this Friday, February 15th. It's a sure sign that Winter is coming to a close. Be sure to stop by several of our supporters......Pinecrest Marine, Pro Wake, N-3 Boatworks, and Mid Indiana Marine.
Fairland Ski Club
Now comes the news that the lease for the Fairland Ski Club will not be renewed for 2019 Dick and Geri Herr purchased the property in the early 1960's which included a "borrow pit lake" that had supplied dirt for the construction of interstate I-74. They developed this "diamond in the rough" into the Fairland Recreation Center which featured a swimming beach with high dive floating dock, a 2 story water slide, concession stands, miniature golf, batting cage, and camping/RV sites. They also leased the use of the lake to the Fairland Ski Club beginning in the mid 1960's. Numerous water ski events/tournaments were held at the Fairland site including Indiana State Water Ski Championships.
Over the years, use of the site diminished as fewer people used the swimming beach as backyard swimming pools became affordable. The property suffered a devastating blow when construction of a nearby Casino drained the lake for an entire season. A couple years later the property was sold with only the campgrounds and water ski club remaining.
It is with great sadness that we witness the end of a fun filled reign for the Fairland Water Ski Club. The hopeful temporary loss of the White River site for the Indy Skier is also of serious concern brings the challenge of searching for other possible water ski sites. An unofficial committee is actively "on the hunt" for an alternate site. Do contact John Kniesly at jkniesly@financialguide.com or Phil Mishler at misp@yahoo.com with any ideas.
Over the years, use of the site diminished as fewer people used the swimming beach as backyard swimming pools became affordable. The property suffered a devastating blow when construction of a nearby Casino drained the lake for an entire season. A couple years later the property was sold with only the campgrounds and water ski club remaining.
It is with great sadness that we witness the end of a fun filled reign for the Fairland Water Ski Club. The hopeful temporary loss of the White River site for the Indy Skier is also of serious concern brings the challenge of searching for other possible water ski sites. An unofficial committee is actively "on the hunt" for an alternate site. Do contact John Kniesly at jkniesly@financialguide.com or Phil Mishler at misp@yahoo.com with any ideas.
A Bit More About the White River Dam...
The White River Dam is located just south of the 16th Street bridge. The actual entity responsible for the dam is the City of Indianapolis. An initial repair was attempted soon after the dam broke in the fall but that attempt failed. The Indy Skiers are still on the search for a temporary ski site for the 2019 season. So....in the interest of the Indy Skiers.....if anyone has some influence with the City of Indianapolis or are aware of a possible site......let the Indy Skiers know!
Boat Shows
Got the winter blahs? Take in a boat show! The Cincinnati boat show is now in progress and re-opens January 23rd-27th. The Louisville show also opens on January 23rd and continues through January 27th. Indianapolis boasts the biggest and longest running show which will be later in February.
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Indy Skiers / White River
And the dam broke! The White River dam just below 16th Street in Indianapolis broke in September of 2018. The Indianapolis Utility (formerly Indianapolis Water Company) which is responsible for the dam attempted some repairs on the dam which failed. The result is the river upstream which was known as Lake Indy and home of the Indy Skiers water ski club is now approximately 6 feet low. This makes the river and Lake Indy too shallow and narrow for use by the Indy Skiers. The Indianapolis Utility does have repairs on the books but it may take as long as 2 years to happen. The Indy Skiers desperately need a temporary and possibly more permanent home. Members are on the hunt for any possible sites. Should anyone out there with ideas/information, they need to contact:
John Kniesly 317-402-8517 jkniesly@financialguide.com
Brian Van Bokkelen 260-437-7253 brianvan77@hotmail.com
John Kniesly 317-402-8517 jkniesly@financialguide.com
Brian Van Bokkelen 260-437-7253 brianvan77@hotmail.com
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2019 Event Schedule
IWSA 2019 Outlook
The 2019 Ski Season Has Begun!
The 2019 Water Ski Season has begun! Kevin Day and his Missouri Disabled Water Ski Association group opened the season with their annual Polar Bear Water Ski event on January 1st, 2019. The event was held on the Mississippi River in front of the St. Louis Arch. Numerous skiers participated in the fund raiser.
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2018 IWWF 35+ World Championships
Several Indiana Lady Skiers traveled to the lower hemisphere to compete in the 2018 IWWF 35+ World Championships in Lago Los Morros, San Bernado, Chile.
Philippa Shedd competing for the British Team and skiing in the 55+ Division placed 1st in Slalom, 2nd in Tricks, 2nd in Jump, and 2nd Overall. Former Indiana Skier Joy Kelley also skiing in the 55+ Division placed 2nd in Slalom, 1st in Tricks, 1st in Jump, and 1st Overall. Cheryl Schmitt also competing in the 55+ Division placed 13th in Slalom, 9th in Tricks, 7th in Jump, and 6th Overall. Jill Smith placed 5th in 35+ Tricks. Rhoda Schmitt placed 4th in 45+ Tricks.
Neighboring states skier friends Jeff Surdej, Dean Chappel, and Kirby Whetsel (Rhonda’s brother) also competed with Dean winning 65+ Jump. Jeff Smith (Michigan) served at Chief Judge.
For the complete results click here: http://www.iwwfed-ea.org/classic/18IWWF02/
Philippa Shedd competing for the British Team and skiing in the 55+ Division placed 1st in Slalom, 2nd in Tricks, 2nd in Jump, and 2nd Overall. Former Indiana Skier Joy Kelley also skiing in the 55+ Division placed 2nd in Slalom, 1st in Tricks, 1st in Jump, and 1st Overall. Cheryl Schmitt also competing in the 55+ Division placed 13th in Slalom, 9th in Tricks, 7th in Jump, and 6th Overall. Jill Smith placed 5th in 35+ Tricks. Rhoda Schmitt placed 4th in 45+ Tricks.
Neighboring states skier friends Jeff Surdej, Dean Chappel, and Kirby Whetsel (Rhonda’s brother) also competed with Dean winning 65+ Jump. Jeff Smith (Michigan) served at Chief Judge.
For the complete results click here: http://www.iwwfed-ea.org/classic/18IWWF02/
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2019 Preliminary Tournament Schedule
2019 IWSA Officers
2018 Awards Banquet
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The annual IWSA Awards Banquet was held on November 3rd, 2018 at the White River Yacht Club on White River in Indianapolis. The Hall of Fame inductee was Bill Roach who has a colorful history with water skiing and IWSA. Bill was honored by a full house in attendance including family members many of whom came from out of state for the ceremony. Not lacking in humor, Bill's acceptance speech drew applause and laughter from all.
Hall of Fame Inductee Bill Roach
Bill Roach’s history with the Indiana water ski community started in June 1991 when Bill spotted a sign directing skiers to a water ski tournament in Plainfield. He followed the sign to Lake Me-Ski. There he met John Kniesly who happened to be skiing with Lynn & Dr. Steve Olvey.
With a reference from John, Roach contacted the Fairland Water Ski Club, and he and his family became members in Sept. of 1991. Bill says the club didn’t want him as a member for his slalom or jump prowess (ask him about his jump history). No, the guys at Fairland needed Bill’s dues to pay for a new jump surface!
Bill’s first Ski Tournament was at Fairland shortly after he joined that club. He skied thru the gate and fell around one ball…… and still won 1st place! - he was the only one in his age-group! Maybe that is why Bill Roach always has a smile on his face when at the lake.
Fairland hosted several ski tournaments the summer of 1992. We should all thank the tournament official who gave Bill a microphone and told him to announce. He announced at every ski tournament he attended for 25 years.
In the fall of 1992, Bill attended a AWSA Safety Director’s Clinic in Anderson hosted by Don & Peggy Bucher. The summer of 1993 he became the Safety Director and Announcer for all Fairland Ski Tournaments, special events and clinic’s. Over the years he completed his Regional and National Safety Director’s Certification and served a Safety Director for more than 80 local and state tournaments as well as the World Police & Fire Games, the US Disabled Nationals, and the combined Pan-Am and US Disabled Nationals.
Serving on the IWSA Board from 1996 – 2014, he was President for 3 years, and Membership Chair (twice) totaling 4 years. As Awards Chair, Bill organized, developed, and MC’d eleven IWSA Fall Awards Banquet’s.
As IWSA President, he organized and wrote 3 issues of the Fall Newsletter, designed new IWSA decals and banners, initiated the trick clinic and commissioned the board, with Terri Branson as Chair, to accumulate, organize, and publish the IWSA Operations Handbook.
For almost 20 years, Bill annually conducted Safety Director Certifications Classes, and volunteered at the RHI Sports disabled water ski clinics. He often invited disabled water skiers Raquel Rooney and Dan Reed out to Fairland for extra water time and some friendly coaching. He also could be found driving or coaching at many of the Monday Night Ski Clinic’s.
In 2005 Bill was named recipient of the “Rollie William’s Award”, recognizing his outstanding sportsmanship and leadership during his service to organized water skiing in Indiana.
For the past 5 years, Bill has been working for US Masters Swimming as the National Safety Compliance/Coordinator for open water swimming. Using the AWSA Safety Director’s Manual as a model, Roach helped develop an Open Water Safety Directors certification program for all US Masters open water swims. Within the first year of the program, he certified 83 new Open Water Safety Directors across the country.
Hall of Fame Inductee Bill Roach
Bill Roach’s history with the Indiana water ski community started in June 1991 when Bill spotted a sign directing skiers to a water ski tournament in Plainfield. He followed the sign to Lake Me-Ski. There he met John Kniesly who happened to be skiing with Lynn & Dr. Steve Olvey.
With a reference from John, Roach contacted the Fairland Water Ski Club, and he and his family became members in Sept. of 1991. Bill says the club didn’t want him as a member for his slalom or jump prowess (ask him about his jump history). No, the guys at Fairland needed Bill’s dues to pay for a new jump surface!
Bill’s first Ski Tournament was at Fairland shortly after he joined that club. He skied thru the gate and fell around one ball…… and still won 1st place! - he was the only one in his age-group! Maybe that is why Bill Roach always has a smile on his face when at the lake.
Fairland hosted several ski tournaments the summer of 1992. We should all thank the tournament official who gave Bill a microphone and told him to announce. He announced at every ski tournament he attended for 25 years.
In the fall of 1992, Bill attended a AWSA Safety Director’s Clinic in Anderson hosted by Don & Peggy Bucher. The summer of 1993 he became the Safety Director and Announcer for all Fairland Ski Tournaments, special events and clinic’s. Over the years he completed his Regional and National Safety Director’s Certification and served a Safety Director for more than 80 local and state tournaments as well as the World Police & Fire Games, the US Disabled Nationals, and the combined Pan-Am and US Disabled Nationals.
Serving on the IWSA Board from 1996 – 2014, he was President for 3 years, and Membership Chair (twice) totaling 4 years. As Awards Chair, Bill organized, developed, and MC’d eleven IWSA Fall Awards Banquet’s.
As IWSA President, he organized and wrote 3 issues of the Fall Newsletter, designed new IWSA decals and banners, initiated the trick clinic and commissioned the board, with Terri Branson as Chair, to accumulate, organize, and publish the IWSA Operations Handbook.
For almost 20 years, Bill annually conducted Safety Director Certifications Classes, and volunteered at the RHI Sports disabled water ski clinics. He often invited disabled water skiers Raquel Rooney and Dan Reed out to Fairland for extra water time and some friendly coaching. He also could be found driving or coaching at many of the Monday Night Ski Clinic’s.
In 2005 Bill was named recipient of the “Rollie William’s Award”, recognizing his outstanding sportsmanship and leadership during his service to organized water skiing in Indiana.
For the past 5 years, Bill has been working for US Masters Swimming as the National Safety Compliance/Coordinator for open water swimming. Using the AWSA Safety Director’s Manual as a model, Roach helped develop an Open Water Safety Directors certification program for all US Masters open water swims. Within the first year of the program, he certified 83 new Open Water Safety Directors across the country.
Junior Development Clinic Organizer of the Year - Kent Hoops
Father of two young skiers himself, Kent has spent the last few years encouraging Indiana juniors to become tournament skiers because he loves the sport so much.
Organizational duties include:
· Arranging for a location that has standard and mini slalom courses,
· Recruiting drivers and 3-event ski instructors who are also great mentors,
· Securing event sponsors who support the program with both funds and ski gear,
· And providing for a tasty lunch and really cool TEAM INDIANA T-shirts.
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Jr. Development skiers enjoy other activities while awaiting their time on the water. Who did win the fishing contest this year, and what kind of fish did the winner land?
On behalf of skiers, their parents, and the IWSA…..THANK YOU, KENT!
Come Back Skier of the Year - Steve Cecil
After a 30 year hiatus, Steve came back into Trick Ski competition. He followed a 3 Step Process:
· #1. Get into physical shape, losing some 100 lbs in the effort.
· #2 Buy a boat. Better yet, buy Sam Schmitt’s Mastercraft.
· #3. Look up water ski friends on social media and re-connect.
Memorial Day weekend Steve drove to Kokomo to ski. Prissy, Sam, Kirby, Ronda and others gave him a quick tutorial on changes to trick ski rules and suggestions on partners with whom he could practice.
He fast-tracked to an assistant judge credential. By the end of the 2018 season his tournament trick scores had doubled to 2810. He placed 5th in Regionals and 6th in Nationals.
Steve is the IWSA’s COME BACKSKIER OF THE YEAR!
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Comeback Adaptive Skier of the Year - Dan Reed
Dan Reed came to the 2017 IWSA Spring Fling at Brewski Lake for his first, and his last, slalom set of the season. Diagnosed with a serious skin infection, Dan was ordered to stay out of the water for over a year. Once cleared to ski again Dan trained with Indy Skiers on White River and at Brewski Lake in Indianapolis. He set a goal to compete in the US Disabled Water Ski Nationals in Paducah, Kentucky in September, and did just that. Before leaving for Nationals Dan slalomed his personal best at Brewski Lake with Jerry Hodges as driver and witness. “Personal Best” doesn’t adequately describe an achievement that he had been dreaming of and working toward for over a dozen years – a perfect score of both gates and six buoys on the full regulation “outer” slalom course 
Junior Boys Skier of the Year - Kolten Hoops Kolten Hoops ended his 2018 ski year a long way from where he started! In the 2017 State meet Kolten put up a slalom score of 4 buoys, so it was natural for him to enter the GRASSROOTS division at his first tournament this year. By late July he had multiplied his score EIGHTFOLD - scoring a “PB” of 33 buoys in the 2018 State Water Ski Championships at Hawthorn Lake. Over the same period Kolten multiplied his trick score from 2017 to 2018 by over 4 times. These Indiana State Tournament Scores earned Kolten a first place in Slalom, Trick, and Overall. Kolten, if you keep up that performance curve you can support Mom and Dad through a long, comfortable, and EARLY RETIREMENT! 
Co-Junior Female Skiers of the Year - Julie Mishler & Alexis Mishler Julie Misher, age 11 and a student at Wawasee Middle School, skis at Camelot Lake in northern Indiana. She currently holds all G1 Midwest Region records. In 2018 she aged into the Girls 2 division and broke the Indiana State Tournament Girls 2 Slalom Record with 1@32 off, also setting an Overall record. At Regionals Julie placed 2nd in slalom, 1st, in trick 3rd in jump and 1st in overall. At Nationals, she placed 4th in slalom, 3rd in trick with 2,760 points (a 2,000 point increase from the year before), 13th in jump and 5th in overall. Julie ended her fall season SLALOM skiing into 1@35’off in multiple tournaments and is currently ranked 3rd in the National Girls 2 Slalom rankings. |
New Tournament Family Skiers of the Year - Tom Schmitt Family Tom and Jody Schmitt joined the Kokomo Ski Club when daughter, Taylor, was a baby. Fast forward, and now Tom, Jody, AND Taylor are competing in IWSA tournaments. The Schmitt’s have skied the Timberlake tournaments and the State for the past 2 summers and this year Taylor attended the Jr Development Clinic. Tom, Jody, and Taylor have made water skiing a “family project” and are having a blast! 
Most Improved Adult Skier of the Year - Tom Sims Tom skied a lot of IWSA tournaments this year, but one really stands out: At the Champion Lake tournament the boat crew pulled him out of the water with his ski rope shortened to 38’ off for the first time, ever! Tom scored a tournament best 1.5’ @ 38 off and qualified for the US Nationals.. Tom finished 2nd at the Indiana State Tournament and following that meet he competed in his first Midwest Regional and US National tournaments. Congratulations, Tom Sims, IWSA’s MOST IMPROVED WATER SKIER OF THE YEAR 
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Alexis Mishler, age 13, is also a student at Wawasee Middle School. She’s a Camelot skier, too. AND HOW! At the 2018 Midwest Regionals, Alexis placed 1st in slalom, 2nd in trick, 2nd in jump, and 2nd in overall in Girls 2.
At the US Nationals she placed 3rd in slalom, 9th in trick, 11th in jump, and 8th overall. Alexis was one of 6 members of the 2018 Midwest Region Junior All-Star team that topped all others for the second time in a row at Nationals.
Once the pressure of the US Nationals was over Alexis promptly skied into 38’ off, setting a new Girls 2 Midwest Region (Class C or higher) record of 2@38’ off in Canal Fulton, OH. Not yet done making waves, Alexis set a Midwest Region Class R (“Record Tournaments”) SLALOM record at Sawmill Lake skiing 4@35’off in less than ideal conditions.
Alexis is currently the #1 ranked Girls 2 slalom skier in the country.
Both Julie and Alexis join IWSA teammate Samantha Hoops on the five member Midwest Girls 2 Elite Junior Development Team.
At the US Nationals she placed 3rd in slalom, 9th in trick, 11th in jump, and 8th overall. Alexis was one of 6 members of the 2018 Midwest Region Junior All-Star team that topped all others for the second time in a row at Nationals.
Once the pressure of the US Nationals was over Alexis promptly skied into 38’ off, setting a new Girls 2 Midwest Region (Class C or higher) record of 2@38’ off in Canal Fulton, OH. Not yet done making waves, Alexis set a Midwest Region Class R (“Record Tournaments”) SLALOM record at Sawmill Lake skiing 4@35’off in less than ideal conditions.
Alexis is currently the #1 ranked Girls 2 slalom skier in the country.
Both Julie and Alexis join IWSA teammate Samantha Hoops on the five member Midwest Girls 2 Elite Junior Development Team.
IWSA Male Skier of the Year - Cody Sharkey Cody Sharkey, 38, was born and raised in Mishawaka….. God’s Country! He wandered off for a few years, then 2 years ago returned to the St. Joe River and has been skiing with family members in the area. Former ski partner DeeDee Tucker, at Hawthorne Lake, misses Cody, but DAD, Randy, is glad to have him close. Cody placed 1st in tricks in every round of every tournament in which he skied this past season, and he tricked a new personal best of 3470 points. Cody was the Indiana State Men3 Trick Champion and the Midwest Regional Men 3 Tricks Champion for 2018. Topping off a great season, Cody was 1st in Men 3 tricks at the USA Water Ski National Championships The IWSA Honors YOU as its MALE SKIER OF THE YEAR!! |
Male Slalom Skier of the Year - Casey Contos
Slalom Skiing in Mens 2 for the last season, Casey placed first in IN State, Midwest Regional, and US National events. Ho hum!!! Two weeks after nationals, this newbie to Men 3 and 34 MPH decided to compete in the Nautique Big Dawg series. With just 3 practice sets at 34 MPH under his belt Casey traveled to Colorado for the final Big Dawg stop. In preliminary sets Casey skied to the number 11 seed for head to head eliminations, eventually getting beat by the event runner up. His performance, though, got him an invite to the Big Dawg World Tour Finals in Michigan in September. In Michigan, Casey was the number 14 seed skiing a PB of 5 at 39.5 off in his head to head round, but not enough to advance in this bunch. No paycheck, darn it! But he earned a lot of attention as the “new kid” to watch out for next year. 
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HONORABLE MENTION:
Megan Lambert/Neal Clark - Monday Night Ski League – Megan and Neal
Operated 3 Monday Night Ski Leagues this past summer. Every evening was “booked” until dark and introduced new skiers to a great sport!
Bucher Family – The Bucher Clan participated in State, Regionals, Nationals. Cindonway Shores Ski Team also won the state award for most points IN STATE TOURNAMENT TEAM SCORE WINNERS. Parents, children, grandchildren all attended and participated in regionals and nationals.
Jared Sharkey---once again Jared broke his previous Men 2 Midwest Skier Record— every one which was set in a Record, or “R” level, Tournament - This latest record a 7050 point tricks run made last fall. Jared was also the Midwest Open Men’s trick ranking champion for 2018.
Blake Miller - was/is the recipient ofthe Barb Miller Scholarship award. Blake is at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana.
Chris Perry- Newcomer Skier participated in Monday Night Ski Leagues and participated in first official tournament at Silent Shores. Chris is a senior at Carmel High School.
Dillon Newton – Newcomer Skier participated in Monday Night Ski Leagues and participated in first official tournament at Silent Shores.
Mark Schmitt Family –parents, children, son-in- law, grandchildren all attended and participated in regionals and nationals.
Lambert Family – parents and daughter all attended regionals and all skied in Nationals.
All the volunteers, judges, drivers, safety officials, water ski lakes who hosted tournaments this past summer.
The Harrison Family- for arranging/providing arrangements for the IWSA Banquet.
Megan Lambert/Neal Clark - Monday Night Ski League – Megan and Neal
Operated 3 Monday Night Ski Leagues this past summer. Every evening was “booked” until dark and introduced new skiers to a great sport!
Bucher Family – The Bucher Clan participated in State, Regionals, Nationals. Cindonway Shores Ski Team also won the state award for most points IN STATE TOURNAMENT TEAM SCORE WINNERS. Parents, children, grandchildren all attended and participated in regionals and nationals.
Jared Sharkey---once again Jared broke his previous Men 2 Midwest Skier Record— every one which was set in a Record, or “R” level, Tournament - This latest record a 7050 point tricks run made last fall. Jared was also the Midwest Open Men’s trick ranking champion for 2018.
Blake Miller - was/is the recipient ofthe Barb Miller Scholarship award. Blake is at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana.
Chris Perry- Newcomer Skier participated in Monday Night Ski Leagues and participated in first official tournament at Silent Shores. Chris is a senior at Carmel High School.
Dillon Newton – Newcomer Skier participated in Monday Night Ski Leagues and participated in first official tournament at Silent Shores.
Mark Schmitt Family –parents, children, son-in- law, grandchildren all attended and participated in regionals and nationals.
Lambert Family – parents and daughter all attended regionals and all skied in Nationals.
All the volunteers, judges, drivers, safety officials, water ski lakes who hosted tournaments this past summer.
The Harrison Family- for arranging/providing arrangements for the IWSA Banquet.
IWSA Awards Banquet
Silent Shores Wrap Up
The twice post-poned Silent Shores Tournament featured calm conditions and lots of happy faces. The perfect September summer temperatures made the day enjoyable for both participants and spectators. Champion Lake skiers comprised the largest contingency followed by the host Silent Shores group. The youngest skier Evan from Illinois enjoyed the grassroots advantage as the older skiers enjoyed the prime skiing conditions. One more tournament for the 2018 schedule will occur next Saturday, September 22nd at Sawmill Lake near Columbus, Indiana. As the tournament season wraps up, nominations for the November 3rd IWSA Banquet/Awards dinner are being taken.
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Fall Awards Banquet
Even though we still have 2 more tournaments to go, it's time to start making nominations for the fall banquet/awards event scheduled for November 3rd at the White River Yacht Club in Indianapolis. More about the event to come later. Attached is a Nominations Award Form to be submitted to me. Please do include a write-up/facts/ information backing your nominations. There are some suggested categories but other categories can be added. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE as the actual plaques must be made prior to the event.
Labor Day Tournaments
The Labor Day Holiday marks the unofficial end of summer. Traditionally, two Indiana Water Ski Lakes host a Labor Day event. Cindonway Shores near Warsaw and Timberlake near Mt. Vernon hosted events on both Sunday and Monday of this Labor Day weekend. Both were pleased to announce that they were "overbooked" and had to include skier events on Monday. Isn't it great to see this resurgence in our sport and increased participation. Do be reminded that the tournament season is not over yet! We have a September 8th event scheduled at Silent Shores and the annual fall tournament at Sawmill Lake on September 22nd. It's also time for board members and IWSA members to start reviewing the past season and put together nominations for skiers awards at our fall banquet scheduled for November 3rd at the White River Yacht Club.
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Monday Night Ski League
The final Liquid Edge Monday Night Ski League of 2018 took place on August 27th, 2018. Mother Nature supplied a fair amount of wind but that didn't stop a group of Purdue skiers and several other skiers from enjoying the hospitality of Boonedocks Lake near Kirklin, Indiana. It was a "full house" until darkness arrived and forced the end of the event. Mucho thanks to Neal Clark and Megan Lambert for donating their time and expertise.
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Monday Night Ski League
Hey Skiers! The final Liquid Edge Monday Night Ski League is set for Monday evening, August 27th, 2018 at Boonedocks Lake near Kirkland, Indiana. Not only will we receive professional instruction from Megan Lambert (USA Water Skier Contributer) but also get to ski behind Neal Clark's new 2018 Mastercraft. If you've never been to Boonedocks Lake, you'll be impressed by this awesome ski site. Call Neal Clark for directions to Boonedocks Lake at 765-894-0836.
2018 Nationals Results
Thirty-six Indiana skiers made the trip to Maize, Kansas to participate in the 2018 National Championships. Five of those skiers claimed National Championship titles. Casey Contos claimed his 4th National Title by winning the M2 competition with 4 buoys at 38 off. Casey was able to top his competitors while being the “old man” of the division – this is his last year in M2. Nate Smith retained his Open Mens National Championship by beating his former fellow Champion Lake skier Cale Burdick by 1 buoy (4 at 41 off). Cody Sharkey won his first National Championship by winning M3 Tricks. Andrew Schmitt also won his first National Championship in M1 Jump. Prissy Edwards added to her list of National Championships by winning W7 Jump by besting her nearest competitor by 4 inches.
Neal Clark skied to his first Nationals podium finish in the very competitive M3 Slalom division with a 4th place finish. Other podium finishes were claimed by Alex Mishler G2 Slalom (3rd); Julie Mishler G2 Slalom (4th), G2 Tricks (3rd), and G2 Overall (5th); Andrew Schmitt M1 Tricks (4th) and Overall (4th); Chris Clark M4 Slalom (4th); Paul Manning M7 Tricks (5th); Don Bucher M8 Slalom (5th), M8 Jump (3rd), M8 Overall (M3); Michelle Bucher W3 Jump (4th) and W3 Overall (4th); Jill Smith W3 Tricks (2nd); Rhonda Schmitt W5 Tricks (5th); Cheryl Schmitt W6 Jump (5th) and W6 Overall (5th); and Prissy Edwards W7 Tricks (4th) and W7 Overall (3rd).
Neal Clark skied to his first Nationals podium finish in the very competitive M3 Slalom division with a 4th place finish. Other podium finishes were claimed by Alex Mishler G2 Slalom (3rd); Julie Mishler G2 Slalom (4th), G2 Tricks (3rd), and G2 Overall (5th); Andrew Schmitt M1 Tricks (4th) and Overall (4th); Chris Clark M4 Slalom (4th); Paul Manning M7 Tricks (5th); Don Bucher M8 Slalom (5th), M8 Jump (3rd), M8 Overall (M3); Michelle Bucher W3 Jump (4th) and W3 Overall (4th); Jill Smith W3 Tricks (2nd); Rhonda Schmitt W5 Tricks (5th); Cheryl Schmitt W6 Jump (5th) and W6 Overall (5th); and Prissy Edwards W7 Tricks (4th) and W7 Overall (3rd).
2018 Midwest Regionals
Indiana Skiers dominated the Slalom Competition at the 2018 Midwest Regional Championships claiming championships in Girls 2 (Alexis Mishler), Men 2 (Casey Contos), Men 3 (Neal Clark), Men 4 (Chris Clark), Men 8 (Dave Jarrett), Women 1 (Megan Lambert), and Women 3 (Michelle Bucher). Further dominance was demonstrated in the Open Mens division with two skiers whose skills were born on Champion Lake (McCordsville, IN) with Nate Smith and Cale Burdick. The two former Indiana Skiers tied at 3 at 41 off with Cale winning the runoff.
Other champions were claimed by Julie Mishler (G2 Tricks and Overall), Cody Sharkey (M3 Tricks), Paul Manning (M7 Tricks), Don Bucher (M8 Jump and Overall), Michelle Bucher (W3 Jump and Overall), Jill Smith (W3 Tricks), and Prissy Edwards (W7 Jump and Overall).
When talking sheer numbers, the Bucher clan dominated the tournament with six competitors headed up by ‘Granddaddy Don’. But by the looks of things on the shores there may be more Buchers competing in the future. In addition to the Buchers the future of Indiana skiing looks promising with the Hoops, Mishlers, and Cross kids.
Congratulations to all 46 Indiana Skiers who skied in the Midwest Regionals.
Other champions were claimed by Julie Mishler (G2 Tricks and Overall), Cody Sharkey (M3 Tricks), Paul Manning (M7 Tricks), Don Bucher (M8 Jump and Overall), Michelle Bucher (W3 Jump and Overall), Jill Smith (W3 Tricks), and Prissy Edwards (W7 Jump and Overall).
When talking sheer numbers, the Bucher clan dominated the tournament with six competitors headed up by ‘Granddaddy Don’. But by the looks of things on the shores there may be more Buchers competing in the future. In addition to the Buchers the future of Indiana skiing looks promising with the Hoops, Mishlers, and Cross kids.
Congratulations to all 46 Indiana Skiers who skied in the Midwest Regionals.
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Indiana State Ski Team Award
Each year at the Indiana State Water Ski Championships, an "Indiana State Ski Team Award" is given to the team/club with the most points/participants. Points are given for each skier in each event so.....one skier who enters 3 events can receive 3 points. It's been known that some clubs draft family members who se!ldom water ski to participate in the State event to help accumulate points! I've been witness to a certain Silent Shores trick skier whom I never knew could slalom ski, entered and skied in the slalom section just to earn extra points! This year's Team Award went to WSI Cindonway from Syracuse, Indiana. It was a "slam dunk!" When grandpa Don Bucher with sons, daughters in law, and numerous grand children showed up in a caravan of campers and motor home, the contest was all but over! Congratulations to the Buchers and Cindonway Shores!
Team Indiana Water Skiers
The Indiana State Team was selected over this last weekend at the 69th Indiana State Championships. The team consists of the top four ranking performers from the 2018 ski season and one state tournament ski-in that had registered for the Midwest Regionals Championship in Wilmington Il prior to July 1st. The junior team (17U) includes of Alexis and Julie Mishler from Milford, Samantha Hoops from Coatesville, Charlie Cross from McCordsville, and Coltin, Wyatt and Rhett Bucher from Milford.
The Indiana male team comprises of Nate Smith and Jeff Cross from McCordsville, Casey Contos from Anderson, Kim Contos from Fisher, Neal Clark from Frankfort, Jared Sharkey and Cody Sharkey from Mishawaka, Shane Bucher and Don Bucher from Milford, Stephen Cecil from Bedford, Paul Manning from Bringhurst, and James Tranchita, Andy Schmitt, Clay Schmitt and Mark Schmitt from Evansville.
The Indiana female team includes Megan Lambert from Brownsburg, Camille Clark from Laotto, Paige Ruddick from McCordsville, Prissy Edwards from Alexandria, and Abby Tranchitta, Cheryl Schmitt, and Rhonda Schmitt from Evansville.
The team will compete at the Ski Nautique Midwest Regional Championship on July 27th through July 29th 2018 for the opportunity for the top two placements, which move forward to compete at the 2018 76th Goode Water ski Nationals Championships in Maize Kansas.
The Indiana male team comprises of Nate Smith and Jeff Cross from McCordsville, Casey Contos from Anderson, Kim Contos from Fisher, Neal Clark from Frankfort, Jared Sharkey and Cody Sharkey from Mishawaka, Shane Bucher and Don Bucher from Milford, Stephen Cecil from Bedford, Paul Manning from Bringhurst, and James Tranchita, Andy Schmitt, Clay Schmitt and Mark Schmitt from Evansville.
The Indiana female team includes Megan Lambert from Brownsburg, Camille Clark from Laotto, Paige Ruddick from McCordsville, Prissy Edwards from Alexandria, and Abby Tranchitta, Cheryl Schmitt, and Rhonda Schmitt from Evansville.
The team will compete at the Ski Nautique Midwest Regional Championship on July 27th through July 29th 2018 for the opportunity for the top two placements, which move forward to compete at the 2018 76th Goode Water ski Nationals Championships in Maize Kansas.
2018 Rollie Williams Memorial Award Recipient
The Rollie Williams Memorial Award is occasionally awarded at the Indiana State Water Ski Championship event each summer. This award goes to an outstanding member of the Indiana Water Ski Association who through his/her display of sportsmanship and leadership promoted the sport of water skiing in the state of Indiana. (A complete list of past recipients is on the IWSA website) Our own Prissy Edwards was awarded this cherished award at the State Championships Banquet on Saturday evening. Prissy is at nearly every Indiana water ski tournament serving as judge, safety, spotter, golf cart driver, etc. At her home Kokomo club she works on the course, maintains the jump, drives and coaches fellow members and grandson. This past winter she took husband Elmer and headed for Eden Ski Lake in Florida working every day and organizing Eden's first water ski tournament. A very special person and most valued Indiana water skier! A well deserved award!
2018 Indiana State Championships
It rained, it blew, the sun shined! It rained, it blew, the sun shined! It rained, it blew, the sun shined! Every 15 minutes was a new weather front! Despite the challenging weather condition, the skiers, boat drivers, judges, and scorers prevailed with one brief delay due to electrical issues! The 69th Indiana State Water Ski Championships hosted 95 pulls for trickers, slalom skiers, and jumpers on Saturday. Julie Mishler of Camelot Lake set new records for Girls 2 in Slalom, 3 at 32off, and Overall, 2304.4.
The Hawthorn neighbors and families welcomed skiers and made the event a success. The evening banquet on Saturday evening added to the day’s festivities with good food, conversations, and some additional awards including the Rollie Williams award and the Mark Wiggins Jump Award to a Purdue University student. Sunday brought some of the same challenging weather for the 25 trick skiers. A noon time finish brought officials and skiers to the awards tent for final awards and hamburgers and hot dogs off the grill.
The Cindonway Skiers, aka Buchers + 2, dominated the Team Competition. In addition to Julie Mishler records above, two other new records were scored with Mark Schmitt Mens 6 Jump, 74 ft; and Jared Sharkey Open Men Tricks, 6380.
The Hawthorn neighbors and families welcomed skiers and made the event a success. The evening banquet on Saturday evening added to the day’s festivities with good food, conversations, and some additional awards including the Rollie Williams award and the Mark Wiggins Jump Award to a Purdue University student. Sunday brought some of the same challenging weather for the 25 trick skiers. A noon time finish brought officials and skiers to the awards tent for final awards and hamburgers and hot dogs off the grill.
The Cindonway Skiers, aka Buchers + 2, dominated the Team Competition. In addition to Julie Mishler records above, two other new records were scored with Mark Schmitt Mens 6 Jump, 74 ft; and Jared Sharkey Open Men Tricks, 6380.
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Silent Shores Tournament
The "last minute registrations" resulted in a "full house" list of skiers for the Silent Shores July 14th Tournament. The day started off with glass-like waters and the first Grassroots skier for the first round. The wind came up about halfway through the second round but that didn't stop Don Bucher from scoring one of his best runs ever and event organizer Neal Clark scoring his PB of 3 at 39.5 off. The lake and weather calmed down for the third round and the trick skiers. Thanks to the Silent Shores crew for hosting a top notch event. State Championships next week.
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Ski School
Emerald Lake was host to Water Ski School on July 12th - 14th. Skiers from Canada, Minnesota, New York, and many locals gathered to enjoy the pristine water conditions for Noah Vieke's annual water ski school visit. Noah, who works at Chet Raley's Ski School in Florida usually visits in July of each summer and offers valuable advice to some dedicated followers. Noah's wife and 14 month old daughter also came to see Grandma and Grandpa! Numerous IWSA members participated trying to catch a coaching tip or two preparing for the Indiana State Championships which are scheduled for July 21st-22nd.
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Monday Night Ski League - July 9th
SRO (standing room only!) at last night's Monday Night Ski League hosted by Silent Shore and executed by Neal Clark and Megan Lambert. Skill levels started at first time 2 ski beginners to hot shot at 39.5 off! Silky smooth conditions and Thorntown hospitality were enjoyed by all. Several skiers were honing their skills in preparation for the Indiana State Championships to be held at Hawthorn Lake on July 21st-22nd. Special thanks to Liquid Edge of Illinois for the sparkling Mastercraft Prostar promo towboat. Next Monday Night Ski League will be August 27th, 2018.
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Hawthorne Tournament Results
A cool head/tail wind conditions greeted the skiers at Hawthorne (Danville, IN.) last Saturday. The conditions didn’t deter the skiers however from some excellent performances highlight by the only 38 off run by M3 competitor, Neal Clark. The Mishler girls, Alexis and Julie, continued their excellent performances with Alexis scoring an excellent Overall Score. Samantha Hoops also performed in all 3 events and had a nice Overall score. It is great to see a few new jumpers competing.
The tournament also featured new competitor Kolten Hoops competing in the B1 division. Also returning to competitive skiing were the Dawson boys, Blake and Vince, who found some stiff competition from Charlie Cross and Peyton Crowthers.
Skiers will be returning to Hawthorne in 2 weeks when the Hawthorne folks will be hosting the 69th Indiana State Championships.
The tournament also featured new competitor Kolten Hoops competing in the B1 division. Also returning to competitive skiing were the Dawson boys, Blake and Vince, who found some stiff competition from Charlie Cross and Peyton Crowthers.
Skiers will be returning to Hawthorne in 2 weeks when the Hawthorne folks will be hosting the 69th Indiana State Championships.
State Tournament Announcement
69th Indiana State Tournament
July 21-22
The Hawthorn Lake Associate welcomes you to the 69th Annual Indiana State Water Ski Championships. We hope that you find the information below helpful in planning your State Tournament Weekend.
Location: Hawthorn Lake - One mile south of State Road 36 on State Road 75
GPS 39.745864, -85.650608
Registration : online at www.usawaterski.org
Accommodations: The Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott, 119 Angelina Way, Avon, IN 46123
This is the closest hotel to the site. Other hotels in Plainfield offer less-expensive rates.
Shirts: To guarantee yourself a State Championship shirt, please go online here: https://mylogosexpress.com/Pub/ProjectOrder/pzIKf Choose the style of shirt, your size, and quantity, then pay online. All orders placed online will be available at registration for pick up. Note: There will be a very limited quantity of shirts for sale at the tournament as a first come, first serve basis.
Online shirt orders can be placed between Monday, July 2nd, and Sunday, July 15th. We cannot accept orders after the 15th.
Banquet: The banquet will be held on the patio at La Ranchera located at 1299 West Main Street, Danville - Saturday Evening. There will be no charge to attend. Attendees will order off of the “Indiana Water Ski Championship” menu for a charge.
Schedule of Events: We have scheduled the events to maximize the opportunity to present all Girls and Boys awards on Saturday during the tournament and at the banquet. Any portion of the tournament scheduled for Saturday but not able to be run Saturday, will be moved to Sunday
Grassroots Slalom offered with the mini course available.
2018 IWSA Membership Requirement: All skiers are required to have current IWSA membership. Fees will be collected on-site at registration. $15.00 Individual Membership, $25.00 Family Membership
July 21-22
The Hawthorn Lake Associate welcomes you to the 69th Annual Indiana State Water Ski Championships. We hope that you find the information below helpful in planning your State Tournament Weekend.
Location: Hawthorn Lake - One mile south of State Road 36 on State Road 75
GPS 39.745864, -85.650608
Registration : online at www.usawaterski.org
Accommodations: The Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott, 119 Angelina Way, Avon, IN 46123
This is the closest hotel to the site. Other hotels in Plainfield offer less-expensive rates.
- There is a block of rooms reserved under “Indiana Water Ski Tournament”
- Rooms must be reserved by Thursday, July 12th to receive discounted rates.
- Rates are $129/night discounted from $184/night
- To reserve your room, call 317-271-9200 or click here: Book your group rate for Indiana Waterski Championship
Shirts: To guarantee yourself a State Championship shirt, please go online here: https://mylogosexpress.com/Pub/ProjectOrder/pzIKf Choose the style of shirt, your size, and quantity, then pay online. All orders placed online will be available at registration for pick up. Note: There will be a very limited quantity of shirts for sale at the tournament as a first come, first serve basis.
Online shirt orders can be placed between Monday, July 2nd, and Sunday, July 15th. We cannot accept orders after the 15th.
Banquet: The banquet will be held on the patio at La Ranchera located at 1299 West Main Street, Danville - Saturday Evening. There will be no charge to attend. Attendees will order off of the “Indiana Water Ski Championship” menu for a charge.
- Seating will be limited
- To reserve Banquet Seating: Under Fees and Charges on the online registration page, click number of attendees from your group next to the Banquet Attendee box.
- Please notify us of any special dietary needs.
Schedule of Events: We have scheduled the events to maximize the opportunity to present all Girls and Boys awards on Saturday during the tournament and at the banquet. Any portion of the tournament scheduled for Saturday but not able to be run Saturday, will be moved to Sunday
Grassroots Slalom offered with the mini course available.
2018 IWSA Membership Requirement: All skiers are required to have current IWSA membership. Fees will be collected on-site at registration. $15.00 Individual Membership, $25.00 Family Membership
Champion Lakes Tournament
Everyone saved on sunscreen today at the Champion Lake Tournament! This was the first official Indiana tournament of the 2018 season. Overcast skies, cool temperatures, and variable winds gave the skiers new variables to consider when skiing the course. Veteran Glen Reid was the only 3 event skier of the day.....what a man! The usual Champion Lakes hospitality made everyone feel welcome.
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