Jason Arndt, jarndt@shawanoleader.com
Leader Photo by Jason Arndt Sherry Baldwin was one of five people to receive adaptive water ski lessons during the Shawano Ski Sharks’ season finale Wednesday at Wolf River Beach.
Lee Krumbach was one of five people who took advantage of an adaptive skiing opportunity during the Shawano Ski Sharks’ final show of the season Wednesday at Wolf River Beach.
Krumbach, a member of the Ski Sharks 20 years ago, had not water skied since 1996 and endured a long journey back.
Krumbach suffered a spinal cord injury in 2000 following an accident in which he fell backward into a hole.
Ski Sharks President Dave Passehl encouraged Krumbach to hit the water again Wednesday.
“I was a little taken aback and wasn’t sure about it, but I definitely wanted to try it,” Krumbach said. “It was awesome, I can’t even explain it.
“It was nice to get back out there and be able to do what I have not been able to do since 1996.”
Krumbach was joined by Donna Dorn, Sherry Baldwin, Jordan Ponshock and Emma Green for Wednesday’s program.
The Ski Sharks spent $5,000 on adaptive water ski equipment, which can include items such as sit-skis, outriggers, wakeboards and shoulder slings.
Prime Powersports owner Chris Gull donated a $5,000 Sea Doo Spark to the Ski Sharks for a season-long raffle to help offset the equipment costs.
Gary Defere, of Shawano, who Passehl and Gull noted has been a longtime supporter of the Sharks, won the Sea Doo in Wednesday’s drawing.
The Leader reported last week that raffle sales had reached only $2,400, but Passehl said the community rallied in recent days.
“We exceeded our goal and we covered all initial costs, and the community came out to support us,” said Passehl, who did not have the final sales figure after the show Wednesday night.
Additionally, Passehl was pleased so many people attended Wednesday’s finale to support the adaptive skiers.
“Look at this crowd. We got up to 700 people watching and encouraging them to ski again,” Passehl said.
Krumbach hopes the Sharks continue the adaptive skiing program as the team enters its 38th season.
“I definitely want to do it again. … I would love to do it,” Krumbach said. “They have shown tremendous support for the community, helping people grow.”