As the author of the book, Ripples of Excellence: The Art and Spectacle of Show Skiing, I typically write an article every week to promote both the great sport of show skiing, as well as call attention to this new book.
This week, I intended to delve into a completely different topic, but recent events have compelled me to shift gears. As I scrolled through the news, I stumbled upon a distressing headline: a small waterski team in Brainerd, Minnesota, the Brainerd Ski Loons, is facing imminent cancellation by the local Park Board. There is a public meeting about it on Tuesday, February 27, in Brainerd.
This revelation struck a chord with me, prompting a realization of the precarious position many grassroots sports teams find themselves in today. In light of this urgent situation, I've chosen to dedicate this space to advocating for the preservation of this team and others like it, whose existence hangs in the balance. I empathize with waterfront property owners who may feel inclined to discourage others from lingering in front of their homes. (As may be behind this endeavor to ban the Ski Loons) However, speaking as a lakeshore owner myself, it's essential to embrace and even encourage others to relish the beauty of the great outdoors.
Waterski show teams are more than just groups of athletes gliding gracefully across the water—they are integral components of the communities fortunate enough to host them. These teams serve as ambassadors of leisure, athleticism, and camaraderie, enriching the lives of both participants and spectators alike. Just take a moment to dive into the multifaceted importance of waterski show teams and their profound impact on the communities they call home.
Waterski show teams serve as rallying points for local communities, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds under a shared passion for watersports. Whether it's the adrenaline-fueled jumps or the synchronized precision of the pyramid formations, these teams captivate audiences and instill a sense of pride and unity among residents. Individuals from diverse backgrounds reap the rewards of community spirit fostered by gathering together on the shoreline to witness the captivating spectacle of a waterski show.
In an era dominated by digital distractions, waterski show teams offer a refreshing return to nature and outdoor recreation. Their performances provide families with an opportunity to disconnect from screens and immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for the great outdoors.
For aspiring athletes, witnessing the skill and dedication of waterski show teams can be a source of inspiration and motivation. Youngsters watching from the shoreline may dream of one day joining the ranks of these skilled performers, fueling their passion for watersports and encouraging them to pursue their athletic ambitions. Many show ski teams find their newest members directly from the spectator ranks at any given show.
Waterski show teams are often magnets for tourism, drawing visitors from far and wide to witness their captivating performances. These influxes of tourists provide a welcome boost to local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and shops, stimulating economic growth and supporting job creation within the community. My own family has driven over an hour, four or five days a week, for the past two decades to be part of a local waterski show team.
Behind every successful waterski show team lies a dedicated network of volunteers who contribute their time and talents to ensure the smooth operation of performances and events. By volunteering with these teams, individuals have the opportunity to give back to their community, forge meaningful connections, and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
For members of waterski show teams, the bonds forged on the water extend far beyond the shoreline. These teams foster a sense of camaraderie and friendship that often transcends the boundaries of age, background, and experience, creating lifelong connections that endure both on and off the water.
Waterski show teams are invaluable assets to the communities they serve, enriching lives, fostering unity, and promoting the joys of outdoor recreation. As we celebrate the enduring legacy of these teams, let us recognize and appreciate their profound impact on the fabric of local culture.
There's been chatter in the community that the city might consider eliminating the Brainerd Ski Loons due to pressure from a few property owners seeking peace and quiet along the lakeshore. While it's understandable that some residents value tranquility, it's important to remember that public waters are shared resources for all citizens. The presence of the ski team enriches the community by offering entertainment and fostering a sense of togetherness. Many residents, including those from surrounding areas, appreciate and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere created by the ski team's performances.
As a part of a waterski team that holds practices on the lake just outside my residence, I've noticed how neighbors from various parts of the lake gather to witness the captivating spectacle. Contrary to causing inconvenience, they wholeheartedly embrace the joy and camaraderie these events bring. Even when we ski elsewhere, my neighbors frequently inquire about our return, expressing their enjoyment. I anticipate that residents in Brainerd will deeply feel the void left by the absence of this waterski show team.
For those interested in speaking out about the City of Brainerd even considering eliminating the Ski Loons from their community, feel free to send an email to the Public Works Director Jessie Dehn, jdehn@ci.brainerd.mn.us
I'll leave you with this final note. Last summer, during one of our waterski team's thrilling performances, I noticed a young boy I'll call Tommy, standing at the water's edge, his eyes wide with wonder as he watched us glide across the lake. After the show, Tommy approached me with a grin that stretched from ear to ear.
'That was the coolest thing I've ever seen!' he exclaimed. His enthusiasm was infectious, and it reminded me of the magic that our waterski team brings to our community.
Supporting your local waterski team isn't just about funding a sport; it's about nurturing a sense of wonder and belonging for people like Tommy, who find joy and inspiration in the feats of athleticism and camaraderie displayed on the water.
Comments