Adaptive Waterskiing has got to rank up there as one of the most exhilarating sports for individuals with special needs.  My heart was racing just watching from the shore!  

The activity is offered by Michigan Adaptive Sports in our area.  They offer a Summer Program which includes both Adaptive Waterskiing and Adaptive Kayaking.  Michigan Adaptive Sports is a chapter of the national organization Disabled Sports USA.  Disabled Sports USA has locations around the US and may offer a program near you.

A  Well-Equipped Program

Adaptive Waterskiing requires specialized equipment for different skill levels and abilities.  I’m no expert so I’ll refer you to the Disabled Sports USA website where they do an excellent job explaining the equipment and adaptations.  

Caitlin was outfitted in a Sit Ski which is what the majority of participants use.  They also had plenty of life jackets to borrow if you did not have one of your own.

Michigan Adaptive Sports partnered with a local boating company who provided the tow boat and rescue boat.  The captains are all experienced in towing and rescuing water-skiers.  And there are many experienced volunteers staffed on the boats and on shore to help.

Safety is Top Priority  

The main requirement that participants must be able to do is roll from a face down to a face up position while wearing a life jacket.  In addition, they must be able to keep their head above water while in a face up position.  This is really important because if the participant falls into the water, they will be unattended for a brief moment while waiting for help.  If the participant is not able to demonstrate this ability, then they are not permitted to go waterskiing.

As another safety precaution, the participants are cradled in the Sit Ski and are not strapped in.  I got a little panicked when I learned of this!  But it made a lot more sense to me after they explained.  The participant could get seriously injured if they fell out of the ski and were trapped or dragged by the ski.  It is safer for them to fall into the water where someone could jump in and rescue them.

The rescue boat was responsible for watching the skier at all times and followed at a close distance should they be needed.  There were 3-4 people on board.  The volunteers in the back of the boat were ready to alert the driver and jump in the water at any given moment.  The driver and spotter at the front of the boat were responsible for navigating the boat at a safe distance from the skier and other boats.

From the check-in desk on shore to the final preparations in the water, the volunteers asked many questions assessing Caitlin’s skill and comfort level.  Additionally, here are personal observations I evaluate to gauge Caitlin’s readiness:

• Verbal cues such as laughing, crying, yelling, nervous talking, answers to yes/no questions
• Non-verbal cues such as facial expressions and if her body is tense or relaxed
• Positive or negative interactions with volunteers and others

It’s Go Time!

After Caitlin was settled into the sit ski, it was time to get going!  I was really anxious seeing her at the end of the rope by herself.  But being able to ride in the tow boat settled my nerves a little.  We pulled away slowly from the shore and gradually picked up speed.  The driver went just fast enough to kick up a small wake.  Being in the tow boat had its benefits as I was able to let them know that was fast enough! 

Depending on how fast you are going, one can make it around the lake 3 times in the scheduled time.  At the slower pace we were going, we only went around once.  I think that was really good for her first time.  She was laughing and smiling the whole time.  I think she was having a great time!

Benefits of Adaptive Waterskiing

Waterskiing is a thrilling sport.  It gives disabled individuals a chance to experience an exciting activity that will get your heart-pumping.

The sport is great for those with limited mobility.  There is a wide range of adaptive equipment that can accommodate beginners in a seated position or more advanced skiers in a standing position. 

Waterskiing builds confidence.  Staying balanced in a sit ski is an accomplishment to be proud of.  And there are also opportunities to take skills to the next level through competitive events.

Waterskiing is a great example of communities coming together to make sports inclusive for individuals with special needs.  I am so grateful for those that are willing to volunteer their time and resources to coordinate this type of activity.

Other Tips

The adaptive waterskiing activity was offered only 3 days of the summer.  This meant that there were limited spots for participants.  Here are some suggestions to maximize your enjoyment.

• Call ahead to ask about what equipment is available for use and what they suggest you should bring
• Be on-time and ready for your scheduled time
• Look up the location ahead of time.  In our experience, the boat launch was a bit of a walk from the parking lot and it took extra time to get there.
• If there are other activities that you signed up for, ensure that there is enough time in-between to change or take a break.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks.
• Sessions are limited and many times there is a waiting list.  Be courteous and call to cancel if you’re not able to attend.

Have you, or someone you love, tried Adaptive Waterskiing?    I would love to hear about it!