Ellis Announces Retirement From Professional Jumping

Scot Ellis jumping at the 2021 Visit Lake County Florida IWWF World Waterski Championships, presented by Guaranteed Rate.

U.S. water ski athlete Scot “The Rocketman” Ellis (Auburndale, Fla.) has announced his retirement from professional water ski jumping after more than 30 years competing at the elite level.

Ellis, 50, was a 10-time World Cup champion, 10-time Pro Tour champion, 3-time Moomba Masters champion, 3-time Australian Open champion and 2-time Moomba Masters Night Jump champion. He also won professional jump titles at the U.S. Masters, U.S. Open and Italian Open. He set 14 U.S. national jumping records throughout his career.

At the 2021 Visit Lake County Florida IWWF World Waterski Championships, presented by Guaranteed Rate, Ellis made the finals and finished in a tie for 10th place (205 feet).

Ellis released a statement and video tribute via social media in announcing his decision.

Statement from Scot Ellis: “It’s hard to believe that 31 years have passed since I nervously went to the jump dock for my first pro jump event. But it is now time for me to step back and stop six-foot jumping. I have had the privilege of jumping with and against the greatest jumpers in the world with many of them being in the Hall of Fame. I don’t think I can ever express the gratitude I have toward the sport and industry of water ski. I was able to see the world and be on ESPN, something not possible without skiing. I have had support from everyone in the industry and this has led to my success. I don’t think any pro skier can get to the top without being helped by the entire waterski family. I would like to point out the ones that have helped me the longest. Correct Craft Boats has supported me for 21 years. Supplying the best boats and creating new boats for a group of crazy jumpers trying to fly 300’…Ski Fly. Connelly Skis was always excited about trying and developing new skis. I won more tournaments on Connelly than any other brand. Although I won’t be competing at six feet doesn’t mean I won’t be around. I will still jump but with guys more my age. I will be coaching and trying to pass down all the secrets and knowledge of what I have experienced the past 42 years competing and 31 years of competing on the elite level. Thank You everyone for your cheers and support over the years. I still plan on doing more.”