Originally part of the University of Minnesota Water Ski Club, the team first skied on Lake Independence as part of the U or M’s Recreational Sports program.

Began performing exhibition shows (no costumes and no theme) throughout the Twin Cities.

Moved to Buffalo Lake to perform several shows during the summer, featuring an announcer who developed a storyline, costumes for each ski act and continued development of the skiers.

Competed and hosted the first ever Minnesota State (now knows as the Midwest Regional) Show Ski Tournament on Phalen Lake in St. Paul.

Performed regular shows during the summer, while continuing to improve themes, costumes and the difficulty of skiing.

Moved to a ski site on the Mississippi River and created the name, “Twin Cities River Rats”.

Won the Midwest Regional Show Ski Tournament and attended the National Show Ski Tournament for the first time ever.

Hosted a benefit show for the 35W bridge collapse with all proceeds going to the US Red Cross. In just one show, they raised over $35,000!

Reached over 100 members and attended the National Show Ski Tournament for the first time in 9 years. The jump team won 3rd place at the tournament!

Record number of crowd attendance and the team wins 1st place at Midwest Regionals!

1st place at Midwest Regionals and 9th place at The National Show Ski Tournament.

3rd place overall at Midwest Regionals and 1st place jump team.

1st place overall at Midwest Regionals.

1st place overall at Midwest Regionals and 1st place jump team. 5th place at National Show Ski Championships.

3rd place overall at Midwest Regionals and 1st place pyramid at Midwest Regionals.

River Rats take an unprecedented break due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

River Rats are thrilled to resume performing Ski Shows for our Twin Cities Community.

1st Place overall at Midwest Regionals. 4th Place overall at NSSA Nationals (best place in River Rat History!)

1st Place overall and 2nd place Jump Team at Midwest Regionals. 4th Place overall at NSSA Nationals. Largest River Rat Ballet line to ever compete, 26 skiers!

1st place overall and 2nd place team jump Midwest Regional tournament. 1st place ballet for combo ballet, 34 skiers, the largest combo line in River Rat history!