Getting ready for a tournament

Skiers (and parents of skiers!), we’re here for you!  Whether you are a first time competitor or have been in tournaments for years, there are a few things to remember and be aware of to make the best of your competition experience:

• Be registered and paid:  When you get to the site and before you head to the dock to ski, always double-check to make sure all fees are paid, your registration forms and any necessary waivers are signed, and if required, you are checked in.
• Be on time:  Tournament rules require that you be at the dock, ready to ski when it is your turn.  Remember that “no-shows,” weather conditions, and other factors can significantly influence the actual time you ski.
• Running Order:  Every tournament will have a list called a “running order” that is the official sequence of events and skiers (sometimes they will be posted online—check the MWSA site before the tournament to see if one is available).  Check where your name is on the running order and be on the dock and ready to ski, but as noted above, other skiers may not show, ski poorly, etc.—be ready!
• Read any notices at the site or dock:  Most tournaments will have a central board with running orders, notices, results, etc.  The starting dock may also have information
• New to the ski site?:  Ask tournament officials or the boat crew for any information that might help you prepare for skiing at the site.
• Volunteer to help:  When you’re at a tournament, be sure to see how you can help.  If you’re a judge, scorer or driver, sign up with the officiating crew to work events.  If you’re not an official, there are lots of other things you can do to help, from Dock Starter to cleanup, or other tasks.  Check at the Registration area for volunteer opportunities, or talk to the Chief Judge, Scorer, Driver or Tournament Director and find out how you can help us succeed!
   
• Read and become familiar with the AWSA rules for the complete list of all official tournament rules (click here).

The AWSA rules state that disqualifications can happen for several reasons, many of them related to not being ready—we want to prevent that from happening to you!