JOIN THE WSWC BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Join the Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada Board of Directors
Have you ever thought about how you can contribute to the growth of towed water sports in Canada? If yes, Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) has an opportunity for you! WSWC is responsible for coordinating, growing and developing towed water sports from initiation to high performance across the country, in collaboration with our Provincial Sport Organizations. WSWC leads through proactive advocacy, strengthened partnerships, effective communications and coordinated leadership.
WSWC is inviting all interested persons to apply for nomination to the WSWC Board of Directors. There are three (3) Director-at-Large positions up for election. Nominations will be accepted until September 14th, 2026 at 8pm ET. The election will take place at the WSWC Annual General Meeting on September 29th, 2026 at 8pm ET, held virtually.
Further information regarding the election and the role of the Board of Directors can be found in the WSWC bylaws, available here and in the WSWC Board of Directors Job Description, available here.
WSWC is committed to diverse representation and to including voices that are reflective of Canadian society and of our sport community. We encourage candidates to indicate (voluntarily) on their application if they associate with a representative group. WSWC must ensure a balanced, gender diverse board, respecting the goals of Sport Canada. Please review the information below. Should you have any questions, please contact info@wswc.ca
NOMINATIONS AND ELECTION TIMELINE
Important Dates
- August 15, 2026 – Nominations Open
- September 14, 2026 at 8pm ET – Nomination Period Closes (15 days prior to meeting)
- September 15, 2026 – Nominees Presented to Members (14 days prior to meeting)
- September 29, 2026 at 8pm ET – WSWC Annual General Meeting (Virtual)
Director Eligibility Criteria
- must be a member in good standing with their provincial sport organization
- must be a minimum of 18 years of age
- must have the capacity under law to contract
The questions provided below must be completed in full by both the nominator and nominee, including a resume and jpeg photo of the nominee
Nominee Expectation
It is expected of the nominees that they will:
- Be willing to serve on the WSWC Board of Directors, if elected
- Have read and understood the WSWC Policy Acknowledgement Form, which all individuals will be required to sign if elected
- Have read, understood and agree to the duties and responsibilities as outlined in the Board of Directors Job Description
- Accept the jurisdiction of Abuse Free Sport and sign the required documentation as an Abuse-Free Sport Participant
- Will complete Respect Group Abuse and Harassment training as requested, if elected
How to Nominate
- Nominees must be nominated by a current member who holds an individual membership with their provincial organization.
- Nominations must be made directly to our designated scrutineers.
- Incomplete nominations will not be considered.
To submit a nomination, please email the following information to rwitty@sportlaw.ca, who is acting as the scrutineer in this election.
Please include the following information:
- Nominator’s name and email address
- Nominee’s name and email address
- Nominee’s response to:
- Provide information about the nominee’s occupation and education.
- Why do they wish to run for the WSWC Board of Directors?
- What is their vision for WSWC?
- What specific and/or special skills do they have to offer WSWC and its members that would contribute to the effective leadership and governance of WSWC?
- Discuss their relevant sport and volunteer experience
- Discuss their relevant business leadership/ management experience
- Do they have a support structure in place to support their board duties and contributions to the organization?
- Attach the nominee’s resume and photo.
About WSWC: CLICK HERE
WSWC Board Roles and Responsibilities: CLICK HERE
Electoral Policy: CLICK HERE
Women on Boards: A Guide to Getting Involved (CAAWS): CLICK HERE
For more information, please contact: info@wswc.ca
2026 IWWF WAKE SURF WORLDS – EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
Expression of Interest Open for 2026 IWWF Wakesurf World Championships
Wake Canada is inviting eligible athletes interested in representing Canada at the 2026 IWWF Wakesurf World Championships to submit an Expression of Interest.
The Championships will take place October 9-17, 2026, at Xiang Lake in Hangzhou, China.
Age Divisions
Age eligibility is determined based on the athlete’s age as of December 31, 2026.
- Grom Girls & Boys: U14
- Junior Women & Men: U18
- Open Women & Men: No age restriction
- Masters Women & Men: 30+
- Veterans 1 Women & Men: 40+
Team Canada Selection
Athletes interested in being considered for Team Canada must complete the Expression of Interest and review the published Team Canada Nomination Criteria.
Submission of an Expression of Interest and/or meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection to Team Canada. Selection will be completed in accordance with the published selection criteria.
Wake Canada has received an extension from the IWWF beyond the original August 13, 2026 deadline. The revised deadline is currently being confirmed and will be updated once finalized.
Important Links
Team Canada Nomination Criteria:
https://wakecanada.ca/athletes/selection-criteria/2026-iwwf-wake-surf-world-championships-team-canada-nomination-criteria-eng/
Expression of Interest:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfR3nuS8Hd18z8n_R6CihPJWyKW0aZJaQ_Bpc19PYnvVKPYwQ/viewform?usp=header
Event Bulletin:
https://iwwf.sport/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Bulletin-1-2026-IWWF-Wakesurf-Worlds-FINAL.pdf
Athletes considering putting their name forward are encouraged to review the selection criteria and submit their Expression of Interest while the revised deadline is being finalized.
NEW RESOURCES NOW AVAILABLE: National Calendar & Club/School Directory
We’re excited to announce the launch of two new resources designed to make it easier than ever to connect with the Canadian towed watersports community.
National Events Calendar
Stay up to date with tournaments, events, and competitions taking place across the country. A centralized calendar for coaching courses, clinics, camps, and educational opportunities is currently in development and will be available soon.
The new calendar provides a centralized location for athletes, coaches, officials, clubs, schools, and families to find upcoming opportunities and important dates.
View the Calendar:
https://wswc.ca/wswc-events/
Club & School Directory
Looking for a place to water ski, wakeboard, wakesurf, barefoot, participate in adaptive watersports, or join a show ski program?
Our new Club & School Directory makes it easy to find organizations across Canada and connect with your local watersports community. WSWC’s goal is to help more Canadians discover opportunities to get on the water and stay involved in the sport.
Find a Club or School:
https://membership.wswc.ca/public/clubs
Provincial Sport Organizations
For provincial events, camps, clinics, coaching courses, membership information, and local programming, please visit your Provincial Sport Organization website.
A complete list of Provincial Sport Organizations can be found here:
| Province | Organization | Website |
|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | Water Ski & Wakesports BC | https://wswbc.org |
| Alberta | Water Ski & Wake Alberta | https://www.wswa.ca/ |
| Saskatchewan | Water Ski & Wakeboard Saskatchewan | https://www.wswsask.ca/ |
| Manitoba | Water Ski & Wakeboard Manitoba | https://www.wswm.ca/ |
| Ontario | Water Ski & Wakeboard Ontario | https://wswo.ca |
| Quebec | Ski Nautique et Planche Québec | https://snpq.ca/ |
| Nova Scotia | Water Ski & Wakeboard Nova Scotia | https://waterskiwakeboardnovascotia.com/ |
For provincial events, camps, clinics, coaching courses, membership information, and local programming, please contact your Provincial Sport Organization directly through the links above.
Building a Stronger Community
These new resources are part of WSWC’s ongoing commitment to supporting athletes, coaches, officials, clubs, schools, and recreational participants from coast to coast.
Whether you’re looking for your next event or searching for a local club, these tools will help you stay informed, connected, and engaged in the sport.
We encourage everyone to explore these new resources and share them with friends, family members, and fellow watersports enthusiasts.
Together, we can continue to grow and strengthen the Canadian towed watersports community.
BAILEY RUSH NAMED 2025 WSWC FEMALE WAKESURF RIDER OF THE YEAR
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is pleased to announce Bailey Rush as the recipient of the 2025 WSWC Female Wakesurf Rider of the Year award.
Bailey continued to establish herself as one of the top wakesurf athletes in the world throughout the 2025 season. Her standout performances on both the national and international stage showcased her talent, consistency, and commitment to the sport.
Among her accomplishments this season, Bailey earned a gold medal at the 2025 World Games, one of the most prestigious multi-sport events in the world. She also claimed the top spot at the 2025 Wake Canada Surf Nationals, further solidifying her position as Canada’s leading female wakesurf rider.
These achievements reflect Bailey’s dedication to training and competition, as well as her ability to perform at the highest level when it matters most.
Congratulations to Bailey Rush on being named the 2025 WSWC Female Wakesurf Rider of the Year. We look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next.
KERRY WILLIAMS NAMED 2025 WSWC MALE WAKESURF RIDER OF THE YEAR
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is pleased to recognize Kerry Williams as the 2025 WSWC Male Wakesurf Rider of the Year.
Kerry earned this honour following a strong 2025 season highlighted by qualifying for The World Games. Securing a spot at one of the world’s premier multi-sport events is a significant accomplishment and reflects the dedication, skill, and consistency Kerry has demonstrated throughout his competitive career.
Qualifying for The World Games places Kerry among the top wakesurf athletes in the world and is a testament to the continued growth and strength of Canadian wakesurfing on the international stage.
Congratulations to Kerry Williams on being named the 2025 WSWC Male Wakesurf Rider of the Year. WSWC is proud to recognize his achievements and contributions to the sport.
JORDAN SULLIVAN NAMED 2025 WSWC WAKESKATE RIDER OF THE YEAR
Photo by Brennan Grange
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is pleased to recognize Jordan Sullivan as the 2025 WSWC Wakeskate Rider of the Year.
Jordan continued to make his mark on both the Canadian and international wakeskate scene throughout the 2025 season. Competing against some of the top riders in the sport, he earned multiple podium finishes in Professional Wakeskate League events, a testament to his consistency, skill, and dedication at the highest level of competition.
On the national stage, Jordan claimed the top spot at the 2025 Wake Canada Wakeskate Nationals, securing the national title and further cementing his place as one of Canada’s leading wakeskate athletes.
His success throughout the season reflects the hard work and commitment he brings to the sport, both at home and on the international stage.
Congratulations to Jordan Sullivan on being named the 2025 WSWC Wakeskate Rider of the Year.
BAYE HOCTOR DUNCAN NAMED 2025 WSWC FEMALE BOAT WAKEBOARD RIDER OF THE YEAR
Photo by James Shaw
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is pleased to recognize Baye Hoctor Duncan as the 2025 WSWC Female Boat Wakeboard Rider of the Year.
Baye continued to raise the bar throughout the 2025 season, highlighted by a Canadian National Championship title and significant progression in her riding. Her dedication on the water was evident as she expanded her repertoire of tricks and continued to build momentum against top competition.
One of the highlights of Baye’s season was representing Canada at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games, marking the first time wakeboarding was included in the event. Competing on an international stage was an important milestone and showcased both her talent and the continued growth of wakeboarding across the Americas.
With a strong national season behind her and her skills continuing to progress, Baye is well-positioned to take the next step in her career as she looks toward even more international competition in 2026.
Congratulations, Baye, on being named the 2025 WSWC Female Boat Wakeboard Rider of the Year!
HUNTER SMITH NAMED 2025 WSWC MALE BOAT WAKEBOARD RIDER OF THE YEAR
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is pleased to recognize Hunter Smith as the 2025 WSWC Male Boat Wakeboard Rider of the Year.
Hunter continued to establish himself as one of Canada’s top wakeboarders throughout the 2025 season, delivering strong performances both at home and on the international stage.
His season was highlighted by a Canadian National Championship title, further cementing his place at the top of the sport in Canada. Hunter also competed against some of the best riders in the world, putting together impressive runs at WWA Pro events and on the Pro Wakeboard Tour.
His ability to consistently perform at a high level against elite competition reflects the dedication, skill, and hard work he brings to the sport.
Congratulations to Hunter Smith on being named the 2025 WSWC Male Boat Wakeboard Rider of the Year. We look forward to following his continued success on the water.
TEAM CANADA AT THE PAN AM WAKEBOARD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Team Canada is in Mexico and ready for the 2026 IWWF Pan American Wakeboard Championships!
From June 4-7, riders from across the Americas will be competing at Bocalaguna in Chapala, MX, with four Canadian riders representing the maple leaf on the i
nternational stage.
Joey Gurr
Baye Hoctor-Duncan
Harmony Meirik
Hunter Smith
Wishing our riders the best as they hit the water this weekend in Chapala.
SAM WILSON NAMED 2025 WSWC FEMALE CABLE WAKEBOARD RIDER OF THE YEAR
Photo by Rachel Ivey
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is pleased to recognize Sam Wilson as the 2025 WSWC Female Cable Wakeboard Rider of the Year.
Sam’s 2025 season began at the Toronto Boat Show, where she earned a second-place finish against USA rider Rivers Hedrick. Following that strong start, Sam continued to build momentum throughout the season, training hard behind both boat and cable.
Her efforts paid off early with a first-place finish at Bluestone Wake Park’s Own the Stone. She followed that up with a third-place finish at the Grass Cutter Classic hosted by Planet Bayou before once again reaching the top of the podium at the Ontario Provincial Championships at What Wake Park.
After a strong start to the season, the hard landings from kickers and rails began to take a toll on Sam’s knee. She spent much of August focused on physiotherapy and rehabilitation but was unable to recover enough to safely compete at the Canadian Wake Park Nationals hosted at Rail Yard Wake Park.
Despite the setback, Sam remained committed to her recovery and continued strengthening her knee in preparation for Yard Sale at Valdosta Wake Compound in Georgia, one of the largest cable wakeboarding events in North America. Competing in her first full cable contest, Sam battled through a large qualifying field and narrowly missed advancing to the main event. Even so, she gained valuable experience competing in a field that included some of the sport’s top riders.
Congratulations to Sam Wilson on being named the 2025 WSWC Female Cable Wakeboard Rider of the Year.
RILEY DILLON NAMED 2025 WSWC MALE CABLE WAKEBOARD RIDER OF THE YEAR
Photo by Mike Case
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is pleased to recognize Riley Dillon as the 2025 WSWC Male Cable Wakeboard Rider of the Year.
Riley put together an impressive season, competing successfully both at home and abroad. He opened the year with a first-place finish at the Toronto Boat Show before heading to Europe to take on some of the sport’s top international events.
Competing against a strong field of riders, Riley earned 5th place at LAO, 7th place at Munich Mash, and 3rd place at O FEST. While his time overseas meant he missed a few Ontario events, he returned to competition in Canada and continued to build on his momentum.
Riley claimed another victory at Planet Bayou’s Grass Cutter Classic, standing atop the podium with a first-place finish. He capped off his season by winning the National Championship at Rail Yard Wake Park.
His consistent results throughout the season, both internationally and nationally, demonstrate his dedication to the sport and his ability to perform at the highest level.
Congratulations, Riley, on being named the 2025 WSWC Male Cable Wakeboard Rider of the Year!
CHRISTOPHER GUARD INDUCTED INTO MILTON SPORTS HALL OF FAME
Family Supplied Photo
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada congratulates Christopher Guard on being inducted into the Milton Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026.
A standout figure in Canadian wakeboarding, Guard played an important role in the growth and progression of the sport during the early 2000s. Beginning wakeboarding at the age of 13, he quickly rose through the ranks and established himself as one of Canada’s top athletes in the discipline.
Among his accomplishments, Guard was crowned the 2002 Ontario Wakeboarding Champion and Canadian National Rail & Slider Champion. He also earned a bronze medal at the Canadian National Championships, captured an X-Cup Pro-Am title, and recorded strong finishes at major international events, including the Wakestock World Cup.
Beyond competition, Guard helped influence the evolution of wakeboarding by blending elements of skateboarding and snowboarding into his riding style, helping inspire a new generation of athletes. His profile extended internationally through appearances on TSN and ESPN, as well as features in wakeboarding films and magazines.
Guard also remained committed to giving back to the sport through youth clinics and programs that introduced young athletes to wakeboarding.
The 2026 Milton Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Wall Panel Unveiling will take place on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton.
For more information and ticket details, please visit the Milton Sports Hall of Fame website at www.miltonsportshof.com.
About the Milton Sports Hall of Fame
The Milton Sports Hall of Fame was created to recognize, honour, and preserve the accomplishments and contributions of athletes, teams, builders, and sports advocates connected to the Milton community.
Since the first induction ceremony in 2016, the Hall of Fame has celebrated individuals and teams who have made a lasting impact on sport locally, nationally, and internationally. The organization is operated by a volunteer Board of Directors and continues to highlight Milton’s rich sporting history through its annual induction classes and community initiatives.
LAST CHANCE TO BID IN THE WSWC SPRING FUNRAISER AUCTION
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada’s Spring Online Auction is now in its final days, with bidding set to close Friday, April 10 at 11:59 PM MT.
Launched as part of a national effort to help offset recent funding reductions, the fundraiser continues to play an important role in supporting athlete development, grassroots programming, coaching and officiating education, and national events across the country.
There is something for everyone across Canada.
Whether you’re part of the wake community, water ski community, barefoot, show ski, or adaptive, this auction brings together items that reflect the full breadth of our sport.
Looking to plan a trip? There are travel and experience packages available across the country. Interested in improving on the water? Coaching opportunities are available across multiple disciplines, including water ski, wakesurf, wakeboard, and barefoot.
The auction also features unique items you won’t find anywhere else. This includes original artwork, with one piece created by a former Adaptive Water Ski Canada National Team member, as well as a one-of-a-kind experience aboard the historic Lazee Gal in Vancouver.
You’ll also find national team apparel, gear, and equipment, along with items perfect for a night out, from NHL tickets to dining experiences. For those looking to invest in themselves off the water, there are opportunities focused on mindset, performance, and overall well-being.
Final Hours to Bid
Bidding closes Friday at 11:59 PM MT. Don’t miss your chance to secure an item or get one last bid in.
Browse the auction, place your bids, or make a direct donation here:
https://can.givergy.com/wswc-fundraiser/?controller=home
Every bid and every donation directly supports programs and opportunities for towed water sports across Canada.
SCHOOL INSURANCE NOW AVAILABLE
What Schools Need to Know About the 2026/2027 WSWC School Insurance Program
As preparations begin for another season on the water, Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) would like to remind schools and operators about the benefits and requirements of the 2026/2027 School Insurance Program.
The program is designed to support towed watersports schools across Canada by providing liability coverage, business support, and access to WSWC programs and services.
What’s Included?
The School Insurance Program provides:
- General Comprehensive Liability Insurance
- Business Exposure
- Program Access & Services
Coverage is provided for a 12-month period beginning on the later of April 1 or the enrollment acceptance date and continuing through March 31.
New for 2026/2027
Hydrofoil activities are now included under the general liability policy at no additional cost. This update expands coverage options for schools offering hydrofoil programming and activities.
Coverage for winch/start pool activities continues to be available. Schools interested in this coverage should contact the WSWC office for additional information.
Coaching Requirements
To ensure a safe environment for participants and maintain insurance compliance, all schools must have a certified coach on site at all times during activities.
Schools are responsible for ensuring that all coach information remains current and that coaches meet all applicable WSWC requirements. Coaches who do not meet the required standards may not be covered under the policy.
Additional Benefits
In addition to insurance coverage, participating schools receive recognition as a WSWC Member Towed Water Sports School and are included in WSWC’s school listings and referral network, helping connect new participants with programs across the country.
For complete program details, coverage information, and application materials, visit:
https://wswc.ca/insurance/2026-2027-school-insurance/
CLUB INSURANCE NOW AVAILABLE
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada’s Club Insurance Program is now available for the upcoming season. This program is designed to support affiliated clubs with comprehensive and accessible insurance coverage.
Returning Clubs (2025)
If you purchased insurance in 2025, please check your email for your renewal package. The process has been simplified this year.
New Clubs
If you are a new club or interested in WSWC’s Club Insurance Program, please review the information linked below.
Clubs are encouraged to review the program details carefully to ensure they have the appropriate coverage in place for their operations. This program continues to play an important role in supporting safe and successful club activities across the country.
For full details and to learn more, please visit: https://wswc.ca/insurance/club-insurance/