The history of towed water sports in Saskatchewan is a rich narrative that traces back to the early 20th century. Water skiing was invented in 1922 by 18-year-old Ralph Samuelson, who believed that if skiing on snow was possible, then skiing on water must be too. The sport then made its way from the US to Canada in the 1930s. A significant milestone for the sport came in 1949 with the founding of the Canadian Water Ski Association, which later became Water Ski & Wakeboard Canada. This organization has since become a pivotal governing body for the sport in the country, overseeing competitions, provincial sports organizations and promoting various forms of towed water sports. Classic Water Skiing comprises 3 disciplines; slalom, trick, and jump, and serve as the foundation from which Water Ski and Wakeboard Saskatchewan (formerly Saskatchewan Water Ski Association) was built when they were established in 1984.

 

The evolution of wakeboarding began in the 1980s, where it emerged as a fusion of surfing, snowboarding, and water skiing. By 1990, the World Wakeboard Association was founded, and major sporting events began to feature wakeboarding, leading to its rise in popularity. In Saskatchewan, the provincial wakeboard team flourished, achieving numerous national medals and consistently representing the province at world championships. 

 

Water skiing and wakeboarding have become exemplary family sports in Saskatchewan, welcoming participants of all ages and skill levels. The story of water skiing and wakeboarding in Saskatchewan is one of growth, innovation, and community, with grassroots initiatives promoting the sports and numerous clubs across the region. The Saskatoon Water Ski Club, which is the oldest running club in Canada, established in 1971, has played a crucial role in nurturing talent and fostering a love for the sport alongside many other clubs with a long history of hosting clinics, events and tournaments including; Kipabiskau Water Sports Club (active for over 40 years in 2025) and Bronson Forest Water Sports Club (active for close to 20 years as of 2025).  The province has seen significant achievements from athletes from a variety of clubs at national and international levels, showcasing the talent of athletes in all 3 disciplines, setting Canadian, Pan Am, and World Championship records, and a few who became professionals.

 

As WSWSask looks to the future, Saskatchewan's water skiing and wakeboarding community remains vibrant, with ongoing efforts to promote and create further accessibility for the sport through clinics, competitions, and the opening of the cable parks, which is designed to keep costs low and accessibility high. Key, longstanding clubs remain sprinkled throughout the province, and Water Ski Wakeboard Saskatchewan maintains a healthy and dedicated membership. The commitment to fostering participation and excellence in water sports continues to shape the legacy of water skiing and wakeboarding in Saskatchewan.