Dr. Ross Outerbridge was involved with Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada as a volunteer for over a quarter century with duties ranging from coaching to officiating to providing medical support. The broad range of duties as well as the sustained dedication shown through the many years of volunteer work are the basis for his induction into the WSWC Hall of Fame.
Outerbridge began his contributions to WSWC in 1976 as a member of the national coaching committee, chairing it from 1981-86. While attaining his undergraduate degree he began writing and editing virtually every NCCP coaching and course conductor manual for the association. It is estimated that in his 24 year involvement with the coaching program he delivered technical courses to more than 900 water ski coaches.
In addition to writing and teaching about coaching, Outerbridge has coached a provincial water ski team as well as the Canadian junior national team. He served on the national team committee for over 20 years and spent more than 10 years as chair. In 1987 he initiated a national sport science committee and program, chairing it from 1987-2003, which helped to better prepare athletes for international competition.
Additionally, he has spent countless hours officiating as a certified judge at water ski competitions, managed teams at international competitions, cared for national team athletes as team physician for over a decade, served on host committees, shared his vision and passion as a member of Water Ski Canada’s Executive Board for five years, chaired the international body’s medical commission for over 10 years, and has participated in various World Anti Doping Association symposia and educational activities all while maintaining the rigorous schedule of an orthopaedic surgeon.
If those contributions weren’t enough to warrant this induction then add his role as a worldrenowned water ski photographer who has contributed more than 600 photographs for use in WSWC’s official magazine, publications and web page, as well as his philanthropy, donating thousands of dollars to WSWC’s Fund of Excellence.
Throughout all of his roles Outerbridge has always exemplified the highest of ideals, encouraging excellence via fair and ethical means, putting the needs of athletes foremost, and has led others as he conducts himself; with an unwavering belief in the value of sport, with compassion, and with the ability to have fun and inspire fun in others.