World Champion water skier from Dothan makes a splash at UA

Sean Hunter, a Dothan native and president of the UA Water Ski Team, has made a name for himself in the water skiing sport world. He has diligently competed locally and globally, winning numerous championships, setting records and becoming a world champion. Keep reading to learn more about his inspirational ski story.

About the world champion: Sean Hunter

We might be biased but Alabama has some of the most beautiful waters in the US such as Lake Martin and Lake Guntersville. With all these stunning waterways, it’s reasonable that Hunter found his love for water skiing in Alabama.

According to Alabama News Center, his affinity for the sport started as a family activity. Hunter first slid across the water at the age of four. It became a lifetime passion shortly afterwords when he entered his first competition at six years old. At age ten, he won his first national title—WOW.

“I had always practiced hard, but I feel like I took my training up a notch when I was around 14 years old. My coach, Keith Albritton, taught me so much and my skill level increased rapidly to the point where I tied the national record for my age group in 2014.”

Sean Hunter

FUN FACT: Hunter is the world champion for the 21 and under division. He won this title after helping lead Team USA in August 2021 as a member of the US U21 Water Ski Team competing in the International Waterski and Wakeboard Federation Under 21 Waterski Championships.

UA water skiing

Hunter wanted to continue skiing and compete at the collegiate level, so when it came to choosing a college, he had his mind set.

Growing up as an avid Alabama fan—can we get a roll tide—there was no hesitation when it came to where he would continue the sport in college. According to Alabama News Center, Hunter believes that the UA Water Ski Team and its reputation is one of the top teams in the nation.

Currently, Hunter is serving as the UA Water Ski team’s president and will graduate with a degree in operations management.

“As president, I try to take on the most and lead by example because then everyone else will take charge and be inspired, and then the entire team is pulling in one direction.”

Sean Hunter

Congrads, Hunter!

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