The Waterski and Wakeboard Club at Michigan Tech allows students to get on the water, learn new skills, and compete in collegiate waterskiing and wakeboarding. The club welcomes riders of all skill levels, from novice to expert.
Members have access to the team boat and other equipment to be able to get out on the water whenever possible during the spring, summer, and fall. The club occasionally hosts Learn to Ski days for students interested in trying the sport. Members also travel to regional competitions as a member of the Great Plains Region of the National Collegiate Water Ski Association, where skiers of all experience levels are encouraged to compete. Competitors participate in slalom, trick, and jump skiing.
During the winter, the club stays active by participating during Winter Carnival, volunteering in the community, and hosting team-building events.
Austin Jordan, vice president and founder of the club, said continued growth is one of the organization’s primary goals. “Our biggest goal is to continue growing the club and introducing more students to water sports. We want to keep building both the recreational and competitive sides of the club while creating a community where anyone, regardless of their experience level, can come out and enjoy being on the water.”
Additionally, Jordan said the club’s accessibility and sense of community set it apart from other student organizations. “I think what makes us different is that you don’t have to be a water skier to be part of the club. We’re really about getting people outside, spending time on the water and building a community. Whether you’re trying waterskiing for the first time, competing, wakeboarding, or just hanging out behind the boat, there’s a place for you. It’s that combination of a sport, an outdoor activity and a social community that makes the club pretty unique.”
Students interested in joining the club can find more information on Involvement Link or Instagram at @mtu.waterski. Last weekend, the club traveled to Center City, MN, for Midwest Shredfest.
