Forum Replies Created
-
Posts
-
I believe Cal O’Callaghan is the most deserving recipient of this award. As a freshman, I watched in awe as skiers like Cal ripped through the slalom course and threw tricks I could only dream of. Even though she is not on my team, over the past three years, I’ve seen her podium countless times, but what stands out most is how she treats everyone around her.
This season, I had the privilege of getting to know Cal better and she is such a kind, selfless person. Even with all of her accomplishments and the attention that comes with them, she remains grounded and approachable. It’s clear to see, just after one conversation, how genuine she is. Cal’s presence on and off the dock creates an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to push their limits.
She doesn’t just excel in her events; she elevates everyone around her. Cal is the kind of person you look up to, and for all these reasons, she is more than deserving of Most Outstanding Senior Female.
I would like to nominate Adam ByWater (better known as Pirate) from Iowa State University. Pirate joined the team during freshmen year without ever seeing a course. He jumped right in and quickly became one of the most frequent skiers out at practice. In just one year as a sophomore, his PB went from zero to now 5.5 @36mph 22’.This fall season, Pirate won the gold title of highest boat gas bill by taking 447 passes in just about 8 weeks of practice. The dedication and passion he shows for waterskiing is such an infectious thing to be around and encourages us all. Well, being out at the lake twice a day may not have improved the grades it is outstanding to see how much his skiing has grown in just a year. The amazing strides Pirate has made would make him an amazing person to honor as the most improved skier.
I would like to nominate Chris Kownick for the Most Supportive Alumni Award. Chris, a 2020 graduate of Iowa State University, has remained deeply involved with the NCWSA as Vice Chair of Team Midwest. His unwavering support for our club has been invaluable. Despite Iowa State Waterski losing its official affiliation with the school in 2022, Chris has been a constant pillar of support, helping us navigate challenges and explore solutions. Having an alumn who would fight tooth and nail for our cause is not something every organization could say. Chris exemplifies what it means to be a committed and selfless supporter, dedicating countless hours to advancing the sport and supporting our team. His contributions to collegiate waterskiing as a whole make him truly deserving of this recognition.
I nominate Katie Tollefson from Iowa State as rookie of the year. She joined the team at the start of the season as a freshmen and has been putting up amazing consistent scores at every tournament. At Nebraska she PB’d in trick with her first time scoring over 1000, and at all 3 tournaments she skied 4.5 @ 22’ and jumped 60 feet. She not only is amazing on the water but she is such a supportive skier to everyone. She is always helping coach us and cheer everyone on and is truly one is the kindest people that we are all so grateful to have on our team.