The TroubleMakers, U19 Mens TEAM OF THE YEAR 2025

 The Troublemakers are a whitewater raft racing team from the Tahoe area. They are self-motivated and work together to tackle challenges with grit and determination. Their passion for the sport and their camaraderie on and off the water inspires others to join and support them. 

 The team trains on the Truckee River, Lake Tahoe, and the South Fork American River, home to the infamous Troublemaker rapid. Even in winter, The Troublemakers are out training after school, dedicated to honing their individual skills and enhancing team cohesion and communication. 

 Sue Norman, former coach to the California Poppies, trains The Troublemakers on paddle technique, boat control, and race strategy. Under her guidance, the team has developed quickly and is ready to compete nationally and internationally. 

Coach Aaron Tippett hones The Troublemakers' downriver skills. Aaron focuses on developing the team’s on-water decision making and communication (in raft racing there is no one person guiding), as well as using currents and eddies to maximize speed and precision. 

 The Troublemakers are actively involved in the community, working on local river conservation projects and supporting environmental organizations. They are also skilled fundraisers and event organizers. 

The Troublemakers took Gold at the 2024 USRA National Rafting Championships in Oregon in 2024 and 4th at 2024 IRF World Rafting Championships in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and took Silver at Worlds in Head to Head!