The MWSA is pleased to announce Mark Boender and Terry Roer as the 2018 Hall of Fame inductees. During the State Championship banquet on July 21, 2018, these gentlemen were honored for their influence and contributions to the sport of water skiing.
MARK BOENDER
Mark first became interested in water skiing as a child when his family rented a cottage during the summer seasons on Green Lake in Caledonia, MI. Water skiing quickly became a passion for Mark and he worked hard to improve. As a familiar face around Green Lake and the resident water ski expert, Mark is a role model to skiers young and old as his love and passion for the sport are always evident. He soon became involved in tournament skiing and continues to leave a lasting impact on our sport. Mark has not only competed in all 3 events at the state, regional, and national levels, he has also served as an official at these events as well. Anyone who has had the opportunity to meet Mark quickly learns that there is no one that works harder at any tournament and he always does everything with a smile on his face. Mark is probably most well known for his dedication and support of MasterCraft boats. There is no MasterCraft boat anywhere more meticulously maintained than Mark’s. Mark currently serves as the Midwest Regional Coordinator of promo boats for MasterCraft Boat Company. He began his involvement with MWSA around 2002 and served on the board as the West Vice President until 2018.
TERRY ROER
Terry first learned to ski at the age of
6 with the help and encouragement of his older sister. After watching
skiers on Bear Lake in Muskegon, Terry began show skiing at the age of
17. He learned how to jump, barefoot, and kite-fly and joined the Grand
Haven Water Thrill Show in 1969. During his time in Grand Haven, he
met his wife Linda Velzen who was also a member of the team. He
competed in his first 3-event tournament at the age of 17, but went on
to compete more regularly after the mid 70’s. Terry has competed at the
state, regional, and national levels in all 3 events. Throughout the
years, Terry has made many lasting impacts on the sport of water skiing
in Michigan. He was a founding member and tournament director of the
West Michigan Water Ski Association. Terry and his wife Linda were also
instrumental in pioneering disabled water skiing in the state. He has
served as an tournament official at the state and regional levels and at
numerous disabled national tournaments. Terry finds the most joy in
teaching others to ski and always demonstrates a willingness to help
anyone whether he is out at the lake with his grandchildren or working
at a tournament. Terry does everything with gentleness and a smile.