Below is a brief overview of our team and what being a member entails. If you have specific questions please check our Frequently Asked Questions Page or do not hesitate to email us at illiniexec@gmail.com
History
The Illini Waterski & Wakeboard Club at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign was founded in 1997 by a small group of skiers wishing to compete at the collegiate level. Since then, Illinois students have constantly strived to make the club better by assuring ski sites, purchasing equipment and building a huge sense of team unity. The club skied at its first Nationals tournament in 2003.
Practice
Because we do not have our own facilities, the team will go to PITS Waterski Club in Decatur or The Liquid Edge in Farmer City to practice. Each lake is less than an hour away and members generally will go ski after or between classes during the week. Both lakes are run by great people who share our passion for skiing. While practicing you can expect to receive great coaching from other members, get to ski quite a bit, and most importantly have a great time!
Tournaments
Anybody can (and is encouraged to) attend tournaments. People of all skill levels are welcome, whether you can barely stand on skiis, are simply a recreational skier, or have previously competed in tournaments. There are three events in tournaments (Slalom, Jump and Trick), and each team will ski 5 men and 5 women in each event for "A" team. Some tournaments also allow "B" team skiers to participate in the events as well so everyone will have a chance to ski! Tournaments are generally held on the weekends in late spring and throughout the fall semesters. The team travels all over the midwest to compete in various tournaments. Towards the end of the fall, the team will compete at the regionals tournament to determine if we will make nationals. For more information on tournaments please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions Page
USA Waterski Membership
Every member of the team must become a member of USA Waterski in order to ski in practice or tournaments. The membership includes insurance (million dollar club liability and secondary personal insurance) and some other minor benefits. A membership only costs $40 for an entire year and must be created/renewed before skiing with the team. To become a member, go to usawaterski.com, click "member services" and "join USA Waterski." Select Individual -> Under 25 Active.