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Becoming a member of the Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Show Club requires a great deal of commitment, but the rewards are unlimited.

Benefits
· family activity
· "open" ski time, in addition to scheduled practices, where at least 1 boat will be pulling skiers
· expertise from members to learn new skills
· new friends across the US
· use of club equipment including:
    · boats to ski behind
    · gas for those boats
    · costumes to be worn during shows only
    · ropes
    · skis (except swivel & jump)
    · ski belts & flotation vests (for females)
    · harnesses for doubles and trios
    · jump ramp
    · helmets
    · park area with 3 starting docks, a sand beach and a 75’ carpeted stage

"Open" Ski Schedule (subject to change)
"Open" ski is where you will learn to ski or improve your skiing skills, so that you may perform in the ski show. Turns are determined by the "block" system, which will be explained to you. The "open" ski schedule will vary from season to season. YOU are responsible for taking the initiative to learn what is necessary for participation in the show.

Cost per season
16 & under: $110 ($75 for our dues, $35 for USAWS insurance), over 16: $130 ($75 for our dues, $55 for USAWS insurance) Family Memberships are $200 for our dues plus USAWS insurance. USAWS family insurance is $60 for head of household plus $28 per family member under the age of 16. Those 11 to 16 must also secure $100 worth of revenue. Those 16 & over must secure $200 worth of revenue each season, after their first season.

Expectations
· attend shows (2-3 a week)
· attend practices (1-2 a week)
· attend tournaments (3-4 a year)
· help set up equipment for shows & practices
· help put away equipment after shows & practices
· learn new things (even how to ski) during "open" ski time
· positive attitude
· help in fund raising for our yearly budget
· no one is guaranteed a place in the show - you must be willing to "earn" a position
· you are expected to help at all shows, even if you are not yet skiing in the show

A typical week for a BWG member
Monday show act practice
Tuesday show act practice
Wednesday Home show
Thursday show act practice
Sunday Home show

Skiing listed above starts at approximately 6:00 PM. The Show Director determines time of arrival. Skiing begins in May and ends in September. Off-season practices are also held, usually once a week, at the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center, 4303 24th Street, Rock Island.

Many of our members have water skied professionally within the US and across the world.

There is no age limit to become a member. Those members under the age of 16 must have a parent or guardian present for all club activities.

If you have questions, need more information or are ready to join, contact our Membership Person, here at the ski site.

Backwater Gamblers Membership Form

Come join our club today!

For more information on membership, please come visit one of our shows.

Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Shows
5000 44th Street
Rock Island, Illinois 61201