This summer, Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO) hosted 2 amazing Adapted Water Ski events. One was held in Ottawa in partnership with the SkiAbility Team, and the other was in Guelph in Partnership with Jake Thomas and his volunteers, who train with the National Water Ski Team. These exciting events, generously sponsored, provided unforgettable adaptive waterski experiences for our members with spinal cord injuries. They brought together participants who use wheelchairs and other mobility devices, alongside volunteers, family members, community supporters, and sponsors. From the first splash to the last ride across the waves, the atmosphere was filled with excitement, encouragement, and joy.
Flying Across the Water
For many, adaptive water skiing was more than just a sport—it was a life-changing experience.
“Trying adaptive skiing felt like I was flying. The feeling of soaring along the water was unlike any other freedom that I have experienced. The volunteers and coaching staff were so friendly and welcoming. They believed in me and helped me believe in myself, and there I was, flying across the water with the wind and spray on my face. It was truly a life-changing experience,” said Rick.
One participant summed up the day in a single word: “Euphoric.”
More Than a Sport
Events like these are about more than waterskiing. They bring people together, creating connections that uplift and empower. It also builds confidence and helps our members believe in the possibilities of continuing to participate in exciting sports and recreational activities after their injury.
“A day like this is a magical experience had by all. It brings the community together, and we all forget about our disabilities and focus on our abilities—not only athletically, but by connecting with the human spirit,” said Andrea Andrecyk, SCIO Peer Support Coordinator. Andrea added that watching participants succeed and seeing their smiles was “priceless.”
Rick Watters, SCIO Manager of Peer Support, echoed that joy.
“The weather was perfect and so was the atmosphere again this year. No words need to be said because the smiles and laughter all day long were the true measurement of joy.”
A Team Effort
The success of these events came from a true community effort. Behind the wheel, Jake Thomas guided participants with skill and encouragement, while Paul Roberts generously opened his lake, boat, and equipment to SCIO.
“It was a real team effort, and I’m thankful to everyone who made the day such a success,” said Sheila Casemore, Interim CEO of SCIO.
Thank You
We’re deeply grateful to everyone who made these days possible.
Thank you, Bergeron Clifford Law Firm, for sponsoring our Peer Support Program and the Waterski Try It event in Ottawa.
Thank you to Nimbus HR Solutions Group, Janet Kay, and Right at Home Realty for sponsoring the Waterski Try It event in Guelph.
Thank you to the amazing, adapted ski teams and volunteers, who made sure every participant felt safe, welcomed, and encouraged.
Thank you, Brett Babcock, Andrea Andrecyk, and Rick Watters, who worked tirelessly to organize the events. Thank you to Dana Francoz, our Board Chair, for attending and lending her support to the event.
And most of all, thank you to the participants, whose love of sport and determination to “ride the waves of life” made these events unforgettable.
Lasting Impact
From Ottawa to Guelph, adaptive waterskiing has given people with physical disabilities the chance to soar, connect, and experience freedom on the water. To everyone who made these events possible, thank you!
