Overview
Program Overview
Adaptive Water Skiing for All Abilities
The n.a.s.a. Adaptive Water Skiing Program gives youth and adults with physical and cognitive challenges the opportunity to experience the excitement, freedom, and accomplishment of water skiing in a safe and supportive environment.
Through our partnership with the River City Water Ski Show Team, participants can enjoy adaptive water skiing using specialized equipment and experienced volunteers dedicated to helping everyone succeed.
Whether it’s your first time on the water or you’re returning to a sport you love, we’ll help make the experience unforgettable.
In Partnership with River City Water Ski Show Team
This program is made possible through a partnership between n.a.s.a. and the River City Water Ski Show Team.
Together, we provide adaptive equipment, experienced instructors, trained volunteers, and a welcoming environment where individuals of all abilities can experience the thrill of water skiing.
Their commitment to inclusion and outdoor recreation has helped countless participants experience something they never thought possible.
Everyone Deserves a Chance to Ski
Many people assume water skiing is no longer possible after an injury, illness, or disability.
Our adaptive skiing program helps change that.
Participants can experience water skiing using specialized adaptive equipment designed for a wide range of abilities, including:
- Adaptive sit-skis with adjustable seating
- Side-skier assistance
- Independent skiing with adaptive equipment
- Stand-up skiing opportunities for qualifying participants
- One-on-one volunteer support
The goal isn’t competition—it’s confidence, independence, and the joy of doing something many never thought possible again.
What Participants Can Expect
🌊 Adaptive water skiing opportunities
🚤 Experienced boat operators and trained volunteers
🦺 Safety equipment provided
😊 Individualized support and instruction
🏆 A fun, confidence-building experience for all ability levels
❤️ A welcoming environment focused on success, not competition
No previous water skiing experience is required.
Our goal is not competition—it’s helping participants experience confidence, independence, and the joy of skiing.
Who Can Participate?
- The program welcomes youth and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities who are interested in experiencing adaptive water skiing.
- No prior skiing experience is necessary.
- Participants are encouraged to attend with family members, caregivers, or friends.
Adaptive Equipment & Support
Adaptive water skiing equipment allows participants with a wide range of physical abilities to safely enjoy the sport.
Equipment and techniques are tailored to each individual’s needs, helping create a positive and successful experience.
Volunteers work closely with participants and caregivers to ensure everyone feels comfortable, supported, and safe throughout the event.
More Than Just Water Skiing
For many participants, adaptive water skiing is more than recreation.
It’s an opportunity to:
- Build confidence
- Challenge themselves
- Experience independence
- Spend time with family and friends
- Rediscover a favorite activity
- Try something they never thought possible
The smiles after a successful run often tell the story better than words ever could.
🌊 Everyone Deserves a Chance to Fly
For some participants, adaptive water skiing is their first opportunity to experience the thrill of being pulled across the water.
For others, it’s a chance to return to an activity they never thought they would enjoy again.
With the support of n.a.s.a. and the River City Water Ski Show Team, barriers become opportunities and unforgettable memories are made.
Free Summer Ski Clinics | Join Us on the Water
- Two adaptive water skiing clinics are typically offered each summer through our partnership with the River City Water Ski Show Team.
- Participation is completely free.
- Clinic dates are announced each year and are open to youth and adults with physical and/or cognitive challenges.
- Advance registration is encouraged as space may be limited.
*We are booked for 2026
Learn More & Register
Adaptive Water Skiing is offered through our partnership with the River City Water Ski Show Team.
For clinic dates, registration information, and program updates, please visit their Facebook page or contact River City directly.
📬 River City Water Ski Team
P.O. Box 3106
La Crosse, WI 54602
🌐River City Waterski Show Team
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers play a critical role in helping participants experience adaptive water skiing.
Opportunities include:
- Dock and shoreline assistance
- Event setup and support
- Participant assistance
- Equipment transportation
- General event volunteers
Like all n.a.s.a. programs, this experience is made possible entirely by volunteers who donate their time because they believe everyone deserves access to the outdoors.
Interested in Volunteering?
Volunteers may assist through either n.a.s.a. or the River City Water Ski Show Team.
For River City volunteer opportunities, contact: ✉️ lyonski1@gmail.com
Or visit our Volunteer Page to learn about volunteer opportunities with n.a.s.a.
Ready to Join Us?
Whether you’re looking to participate, volunteer, or learn more about adaptive water skiing, we’d love to help you get started.
All n.a.s.a. programs are offered free of charge to participants thanks to the generosity of our donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners.
