University of Kansas Victorious at 2018 Mo-State Fall Showdown

On the weekend of September 15-16th, Missouri State Water Ski Team held their annual Fall Showdown tournament in Hartville, Missouri, at the very well-loved Lake Freddie. The tournament was postponed by a weekend due to rainfall, but even with the change of plans there was still a great turn out. Team Midwest brought in five teams, as well as some of their alumni.

The tournament kicked off early Saturday morning with slalom. We could not have asked for better weather. The water was smooth and skiers were up and ready early to take on
the course. Kansas Men’s team took the first two places with Sean Kulig winning and Ethan Staver placing right behind. Missouri Women’s skiers made the podium with Missouri State’s
Nikki Weber placing first getting into 22 off and Mizzou’s Sabrina Kowalik placing second.

Next, trick took place. There were PB’s and a few falls, but the event went by seemingly fast as we alternated women and men skiers with two boats. Finally, everyone’s favorite event of the day began. Women started off first with jump. There were many crashes with skies falling off in the water but thankfully we avoided all injuries. For some, it was their first time off the big, red ramp. No fear was shown from these brave women. Men jumped next. Kansas State’s Men team swooped first place in jump by having skiers placing second, fourth and fifth place.

Alumni jumped later Saturday evening. The very talented Cole Kalkbrenner attempted to beat Lake Freddie’s 5 and ½ jump record of 190 feet. With the crowd cheering him on in utter excitement, Cole landed his third jump with just one foot away from the record. He landed a 189-foot jump.

The next morning the remaining of B team skied, and that was the wrap of Fall Showdown 2018. Combined team results concluded with Kansas placing first, Missouri State in second, and Nebraska falling right behind. This upcoming weekend, Team Midwest will be traveling to the Great Plains Conference to compete for a spot at Midwest Regionals.

Good luck to all! The full scorebook from the tournament can be found on USA Water Ski & Wake Sports’ website.