Foot valve - best way to support in the lake?

[rcspencer1]

My water system is a pump with 1 1/4" poly pipe with a foot valve at the end, which I place about 75' out from the lake edge. I usually place the foot valve thru a concrete block and tie it with rope, but believe there just has to be a better way. Anyone have any ideas on the best ways to support it? Any other ideas that reduce the need to go into the cold water would also be appreciated :>) Thanks