Grass Roots Approach to Promotion of Towed Water Sports, not new to NSWSA ...
Submitted by Claudia Currie, Nova Scotia Water Ski Association

Water skiing like most activities in the 21st Century is in a process of change. Although we still maintain and provide a competitive program and spirit, we understand the Recreational aspect of our sport is fundamental to our survival and success. Over the past several years our priority has been to broaden our programs which now promote family and fun while participating at all levels in our sport.

Water skiing can be an excellent fitness tool at any stage in the skill development and our programs reflect this. We operate a full time ski school for juniors utilizing the Rip n' Ride grass roots program especially for children aged 6 to 16 (http://www.ripnride.ca/). In addition NSWSA also operates an all female ski school  for women who wish to benefit from fitness rewards water skiing on a regular basis offers.

To that end, the Nova Scotia Water Ski Association through the Long Term Athlete Development program (laid out by the coaching Association of Canada) has changed our Provincial Water Ski Championship to the end of August. Now this event provides (in addition to the traditional competitive format), a venue for all members of the family to participate in many alternative and flexible ways. This fun all-inclusive activity is now the premier end of the season event. Fun being the number one priority.

It is very encouraging for our organization to see that the American Water Ski Association feels the way we do. In a recent article published on their website they show their commitment to a broader perspective for our sport:

http://www.usawaterski.org/pages/Grassroots/GrassrootsBackgroundInfo.htm
"The USA Water Ski GrassRoots Series plays a critical role in promoting towed water sports to recreational water sports enthusiasts, and welcoming a new generation of towed water sports families. The USA Water Ski GrassRoots Series targets those athletes who want to spend time with their family and friends, while participating in the sport they love. The program is an effort to attract more youth and families to our sport, and it strives to be educational, interactive and fun to ensure the sport is carried on by future generations."