FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New England Water Ski Collective to Host Sold-Out 3rd Annual Veterans Water Ski Event on Lake Quinsigamond

SHREWSBURY, Mass. – June 30, 2026 – The New England Water Ski Collective will host its sold-out 3rd Annual Veterans Water Ski Event on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the Donahue Rowing Center in Shrewsbury, offering veterans and their families a free day of water skiing, adaptive skiing, community, and celebration on Lake Quinsigamond.

With 36 participants currently signed up, the event is sold out and is one of the largest veterans water ski events in the country, as determined by USA Water Ski. The event is designed for both able-bodied and disabled veterans, with opportunities for participants to try stand-up skiing, sit-skiing, and adaptive water ski equipment with support from trained volunteers.

For many participants, this may be their first time on water skis, and volunteers will provide instruction, assistance with equipment, and on-water support throughout the day.

“This event is one of the best ways we know to say thank you to our veterans,” said Ryan DesRoches, Director of Adaptive Skiing. “We get to share what we love most – being on the water, having fun, and helping people try something new. Our hope is that every veteran leaves with smiles, laughs, and a real sense of accomplishment.”

The event is expected to be a busy and meaningful day. In addition to skiing, veterans and volunteers will enjoy a BBQ-style lunch catered by Bistro Eighty Ates in Webster. The full event, including lunch, is 100% free for veterans.

The New England Water Ski Collective has also seen tremendous demand across its Adaptive Ski Program. All adaptive events in Massachusetts are now sold out for the season, highlighting both the popularity of the program and the growing need for more adaptive water ski opportunities in the region. With the help of supporters, donors, and community partners, the organization hopes to expand its offerings in 2027 and beyond.

To support the event and help keep participants safe, the boat ramp at 37 Tamarack Ln, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 will be closed from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM on July 7. A No Wake zone will also be in place from the Donahue Rowing Center to the Route 9 bridge during those hours to reduce boat traffic and create a safe ski area for participants.

The event also comes at a meaningful time as the country approaches its 250th anniversary, giving the community another opportunity to recognize the service and sacrifice of local veterans.

Members of the public are welcome to come down to the Donahue Rowing Center to cheer on the veterans and be part of the day.

Anyone interested in donating to or sponsoring the New England Water Ski Collective’s Adaptive Ski Program can do so at:
https://NewEnglandWaterSki.com/sponsorships

Event Details
What: Sold-Out 3rd Annual Veterans Water Ski Event
When: Tuesday, July 7, 2026, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Where: Donahue Rowing Center, Shrewsbury, MA
Hosted by: New England Water Ski Collective
Who: Veterans, families, volunteers, and community supporters

For more information, contact:
New England Water Ski Collective
Ryan DesRoches
Director of Adaptive Skiing
508-944-9793
adaptive@newenglandwaterski.org