Lakeland is home to the oldest water ski club in the United States. In 1949, founders Bill Clifford, Glen Kirkpatrick + Matt Obinger, graduated from Florida Southern College and continued their passion for water skiing beyond their collegiate competitions. The three FSC Mocs joined the rapidly growing sport of water skiing, establishing the city’s club at Lake Hollingsworth. Bill Clifford continued to be influential in the sport, becoming the first executive director of the American Water Ski Association when it was created in 1952.
The club has a rich history, having been home to many different water ski tournaments over the course of its 70 year existence + continues to be a central organization for the national association. Today, the club gets together for practices on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. to prepare for upcoming competitions or performances. They can even perform at your event on your very own lakefront location. Now that’s pretty cool, right?
Want to get involved or check out one of Lakeland Water Ski Club’s unique shows? Their website shares all you need to know about the club and how to get more involved. Keep up with their social for pictures + videos of recent shows. Because where else can you see 10 athletes stacked on five pairs of skis?
- Trevor, LALtoday intern
