NSSA - National Scholastic Surfing Association

The National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to encourage and assist its members in their interest to learn and develop the fundamentals and skills of surfing competition while competing in structured and quality events. The NSSA promotes the qualities of discipline and competitive excellence while supporting the merits of academic achievement to young surfers. The NSSA strives to provide a fun surfing experience for all of its members.

The NSSA is one of the few national youth sports organizations that require its participants to maintain academic standards in order to compete. Since 1978, the NSSA program philosophy has been that athletics and scholastics go hand in hand. More than 80 NSSA events are run nationwide that culminate with the annual National Championships which is regarded as the highest profile youth surfing event in America.

Surfer the Week - Archives (2022)

Surfer of the Week

DOMINIC ARCE

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE EXPLORER BOYS 14U GOLD COAST EVENT 5 AT VENTURA HARBOR OCTOBER 5

1ST PLACE EXPLORER BOYS 14U GOLD COAST EVENT 6 AT VENTURA HARBOR OCTOBER 6

Age

14

Hometown (City, State):

Santa Barbara, California

School and grade:

Santa Barbara High School; 9th grade.

Favorite subject:

Spanish

Sponsors:

Channel Islands, Body Glove, Salty Crew, Creatures of Leisure, Future Fins, Leus and Sex Wax.

Equipment:

5’3" Dark Arts epoxy Happy Everyday by Channel Islands.

Coach / Trainer:

Toma and Adam Lambert.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 7. 

Local surfing spot:

Rincon, The Pit and Sandspit.

Local heroes::

Parker and Conner Coffin, Tom Curren, Bobby Martinez and Chris Brown.

Surf crew:

Elias, Jak and Lawler.

Favorite pro surfers::

Bruce Irons, Chris Brown and Christian Fletcher.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Golf, Snowboard, Skate and I like to ride bikes with friends.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Bruce Irons.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Adam Lambert and Jak Ziets.

Fantasy superpower:

To breathe underwater.

Dream wave:

Big right reef break with air and barrel sections.

Something people don't know about you:

I like to watch and play football with friends. 

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Getting the donuts before everyone else does!

Contest playlist:

Offspring, Pennywise and Helmet.

Goals for this season:

I want to get 1st in the Gold Coast Boys U14 rankings and make finals in the Regionals.

Special people you would like to thank:

My Mom, Dad, Coaches, Sponsors and Uncle D (Dave Letinsky)!

 

Surfer of the Week

KAI FINN

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS SOUTHWEST EVENT 2 AT SALT CREEK SEPTEMBER 28-29

KAI HAS MADE TWO CONSECUTIVE OPEN MENS FINALS.

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

San Clemente, California

School and grade:

San Clemente High School; 11th grade

Favorite subject:

Math.

Sponsors:

Vissla and Timmy Patterson Surfboards.

Equipment:

5’9” TPatterson, Scorpion model.

Coach / Trainer:

John Daniels and Tera O’Brien P.T.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 3. My dad taught me how to surf at Sano.

Local surfing spot:

Trestles.

Local heroes::

Cole Houshmand, Brother and Kevin Schulz.

Surf crew:

CH, Nolav, Laird, Shenny D and Cruz.

Favorite pro surfers::

Yago Dora and Gabriel Medina.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Golfing and Guitar.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Yago Dora.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My dad and all the boys in SC.

Fantasy superpower:

Invisibility.

Dream wave:

Skeleton Bay.

Something people don't know about you:

I broke two bones in my leg surfing last year.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

The high five from Janice after a good heat and Gayline’s commentary.

Contest playlist:

J Boog x Billy Joel mix.

Goals for this season:

Win the Season Title in the Open Mens and the Nationals.

Special people you would like to thank:

I want to thank Tera O’Brien and Motus Physical Therapy for helping get me back to 100%. I also want to thank my parents and friends for being there for me every step of the way in my recovery.

 

Surfer of the Week

FYNN RAY NETH

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE EXPLORER JUNIORS GOLD COAST EVENT 1 AT C STREET PIPE SEPTEMBER  7

1ST PLACE EXPLORER JUNIORS GOLD COAST EVENT 2 AT C STREET PIPE SEPTEMBER 8

1ST  PLACE EXPLORER JUNIORS GOLD COAST EVENT 3 AT VENTURA HARBOR SEPTEMBER 21

1ST PLACE EXPLORER JUNIORS GOLD COAST EVENT 4 AT VENTURA HARBOR SEPTEMBER 22

FOUR STRAIGNT WINS FOR FYNN!

Age

15

Hometown (City, State):

Ventura, California

School and grade:

Evergreen Private School; 10th grade.

Favorite subject:

Social Studies

Sponsors:

Roberts Surfboards, Prolite and Anacapa Surf n Sport.

Equipment:

5'10" Roberts Surfboards custom thumb tail.

Coach / Trainer:

Mike Lamm

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing around the age of 5, on the nose of my Dad's longboard at Mondos.

Local surfing spot:

Ventura Harbor

Local heroes::

Robert Weiner, Mike Lamm, Sean Hayes, Brett Jordan, Ryan Winger, Dimitri Poulos, Jabe Swierkocki, Dane Reynolds, Curren Caples, Eithan Osborne, Micky Clarke, Mike and Matt McCabe, Adam Virs and Kellen Ellison.

Surf crew:

My brothers Owen and Larkin, and all the Harbor Rats.

Favorite pro surfers::

Dimitri Poulos, Jabe Swierkocki, Dane Reynolds, Griffin Colapinto, Cole Houshmand, John John Florence, Ramzi Boukhiam and Taj Burrow.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Golf, working out and yoga.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

There are so many great surfers that inspire me, that I look up to and that I am trying to learn from.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Fellow competitors and all of the amazing surfers in Ventura.

Fantasy superpower:

The ability to breathe under water would be game changing.

Dream wave:

I don't have a dream wave. I just love surfing in all conditions.

Something people don't know about you:

I have a bionic ear, just kidding. But almost 6 years ago I had surgery and I do have a metal prosthetic in my ear due to inner ear disease—Cholesteatoma. That is why I always have earplugs in. I just take my good ear/left side out during competitions so I can hear Gayline on the mic!

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I love the preparation---All of the work I do with Mike Lamm and going to the gym to get my body ready for anything.

Contest playlist:

Lately I have been into J Cole.

Goals for this season:

To have the most fun! And to compete at the highest level I can!

Special people you would like to thank:

My Mom and Dad and both of my brothers. And special thanks to Janice and Gayline for all you do for us groms.

 

Surfer of the Week

GIACOMO MESINAS

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE EXPLORER BOYS GOLD COAST EVENT 1 AT C STREET PIPE SEPTEMBER 7

3RD PLACE EXPLORER MENS GOLD COAST EVENT 1 AT C STREET PIPE SEPTEMBER 7

1ST PLACE EXPLORER MENS GOLD COAST EVENT 2 AT C STREET PIPE SEPTEMBER 8

3RD PLACE EXPLORER BOYS GOLD COAST EVENT 2 AT C STREET PIPE SEPTEMBER 8

GIACOMO WON 7 OF 10 HEATS SURFED!

Age

13

Hometown (City, State):

Malibu, California

School and grade:

California Online Public Schools; 8th grade.

Favorite subject:

Math and Social Studies.

Sponsors:

Janga Wetsuits, Creatures Of Leisure, Skullcandy, Timmy Patterson Surfboards, and Catalyst A Better Life.

Equipment:

4'11" Timmy Patterson, Synthetic 84 and 5'0" Andy Irons model.

Coach / Trainer:

I like to work with different coaches depending on where I am surfing. Coach Toma is my main coach. He's a technique wizard. Coach John Daniels is a master at heat strategy and mental game. I've enjoyed working with Lucas Taub for Salt Creek and Ryan Simmons for USA prep. When I'm in Hawaii I work with Kahea and when I'm surfing in Peru my coaches are Luis Escudero and the Master's World Champ Magoo de la Rosa Toro.

Age you started surfing:

I was born into the world of surfing because I have a large Peruvian family and they all surf. My brother was a junior pro surfer and my cousin Lucca is a pro surfer. I have been so lucky to be able to travel with them both since I was little. Most of my time was spent on the beach watching and I'd get on a wave every once in a while. I started skating seriously first and then at Age 9, I really began to put everything I had into surfing. I'm pretty sure my very first wave was in Portugal.

Local surfing spot:

Because I was able to travel from a young age, I have stories connected to so many waves. Zuma and Leo would be local for me just because my house is there, but after we bought our sprinter van the road became our home. I've surfed Huntington Beach, San Clemente, and Oceanside more than any other breaks in Cali.

Local heroes::

My brothers, Stefano and Italo, and my cousin Lucca are my surf heroes. I also spend a ton of time at Ventura. Dane Reynolds and Bobby Martinez are super legends.

Surf crew:

I have surf crews at every beach. That's the benefit of being able to travel around. There is not a beach where I don't run into a crew of my buddies, but I would say I spend the most time surfing with King Nicol and Zion Walla.

Favorite pro surfers::

Italo Ferreira, John John Florence, Andy Irons, Lucca Mesinas, Kelly Slater, Erin Brooks and Caity Simmers.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Fishing, Skateboarding, Snowboarding, Singing and I'm a Rubics Cube master!

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Andy Irons

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My cousin Lucca Mesinas is my biggest inspiration, because I am very close to him and we travel a lot together. I also train with Gabriel Vargas from Peru. He really pushes me to chase my dreams. My mom and dad are also my biggest supporters along with my coaches.

Fantasy superpower:

Breathing under water and making waves.

Dream wave:

Teahupoo

Something people don't know about you:

Well by now, most everyone knows that I am half Peruvian. I also have a photographic memory and I love to play chess.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

One of my favorite things to do is compete. It's like playing chess. It pushes my surfing to the next level and I enjoy traveling and hanging out with my friends.

Contest playlist:

Wu-Tang Clan, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop, and Spanish Music.

Goals for this season:

Win the West Coast Regionals and NSSA National Championships and train with the USA Team!

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my family and those surfers who are their friends for always including me and passing on their knowledge of the ocean. All of my coaches make me a better person in and out of the water. Surfing has allowed me to have friends that stay in touch via social media and I enjoy planning trips to surf the most beautiful waves in the world. I can't thank them enough for sharing their waves with me and treating me like family. Gayline and Janice, you know you are both the ultimate icons and thanks to mother ocean!

 

Surfer of the Week

MAKAI CASTLE

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN JUNIORS  (U16)

1ST PLACE EXPLORER BOYS (14U)

2024 WEST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THE TWO VICTORIES MAKE FOUR CAREER REGIONAL TITLES FOR MAKAI. THIS IS THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR THAT MAKAI HAS WON DOUBLE TITLES!

Age

14

Hometown (City, State):

Huntington Beach, California

School and grade:

Cabrillo Point Academy: 8th grade.

Favorite subject:

English.

Sponsors:

Quiksilver, Huntington Surf and Sport, Prolite, Sessions West Coast Deli, Futures, Bubblegum Wax, Carver Skateboards and Timmy Patterson Surfboards.

Equipment:

5'7" TPatterson Pato Model.

Coach / Trainer:

Christian Saenz.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 4. My dad pushed me into little waves at River Jetties.

Local surfing spot:

Huntington Beach Pier.

Local heroes::

Brett Simpson, Kanoa Igarashi and Jeff Deffenbaugh.

Surf crew:

My brother Finn, Jesse Ramone, Wyatt, Gavo, the Meza girls and the Kaina family

Favorite pro surfers::

Griffin Colapinto, Andy Irons and Italo Ferreira.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Video editing and photography.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

I love watching Andy Irons surf. My goal is to do raw, powerful turns like him.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

The local surf crew and my brother Finn.

Fantasy superpower:

To read people's minds.

Dream wave:

Barra de la Cruz but barreling all the way down the point.

Something people don't know about you:

Two years ago when I was in the U14 Open Boys, I lost every single first round heat for seven contests in a row. I kept making bad heat strategy mistakes that year. So I learned from my mistakes, worked hard on my surfing and the next year I won Nationals in the U14 Open Boys!

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

My favorite thing is getting to surf against kids who push me to become better at competing and surfing.

Contest playlist:

Punk Rock.

Goals for this season:

I  want to win the U16 Open Juniors at the Nationals.

Special people you would like to thank:

I want to thank my parents of course! Also Coach Christian and all of my sponsors.

 

Surfer of the Week

BAILEY TURNER

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN WOMENS  (ALL AGES)

4TH PLACE OPEN GIRLS (U16)

2024 WEST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS IS BAILEY'S SECOND CAREER REGIONAL TITLE!

Age

15

Hometown (City, State):

Huntington Beach, California

School and grade:

Huntington Beach High School, 9th grade.

Favorite subject:

PE

Sponsors:

Sisstr, Huntington Surf and Sport, Banzai Bowls, Future Fins, Black Bear, Stamps Surfboards and the Sugar Shack.

Equipment:

5’5" Stamps Surfboards

Coach / Trainer:

My Dad Ryan, Christian Saenz and Stu. 

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 6 on the Northside of the Huntington Beach Pier. I would surf all day long!

Local surfing spot:

Huntington Beach Pier. 

Local heroes::

My Dad, Uncle Timmy and Simpo. 

Surf crew:

My brothers, Ava, Tippy (Bula), Shea and Taavi.

Favorite pro surfers::

Moana Jones, Griffin Colapinto and John John Florence. 

Hobbies other than surfing:

Fishing, snowboarding and hunting.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

If I could surf like anyone in the world it would be John John because he gets big barrels, does big turns and sticks huge airs!

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brothers and my Dad always push me to improve my surfing and beat them.

Fantasy superpower:

To have gills so I can breathe underwater.

Dream wave:

My dream wave is to drop into to a huge barrel, get spit out into a rippable section and then back into a long draining barrel!

Something people don't know about you:

My family owns and runs a family business: The Sugar Shack on Main Street in HB. I grew up there, running back and forth to the beach and surfing all day. 

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

The NSSA events are the best because my favorite thing in the world is competing and to be able to compete with my friends and family around me is so fun!

Contest playlist:

I listen to some Green Day. 

Goals for this season:

My goal for this season is to mainly get better with my surfing, but I also want to win the Nationals!

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to give thanks to my Dad for introducing me to surfing and pushing me to improve everyday. I want to thank my Mom for everything she does for me and my brothers for always wanting me to be better. Also thanks to my Grandma and Grandpa for always supporting me and my trainer Stu for encouraging me to be the best I can be. And to Water Groms for teaching me skills underwater. Also thank you to all of my sponsors for supporting me!

 

Surfer of the Week

SEBASTIAN PETERS

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN BOYS (U14)

1ST PLACE EXPLORER BOYS (U15)

2024 EAST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS MAKES THREE CAREER EAST COAST REGIONAL TITLES FOR SEBASTIAN!

Age

13

Hometown (City, State):

Melbourne Beach, Florida

School and grade:

7th grade

Favorite subject:

Math

Sponsors:

Ron Jon Surf Shop, Florence, Pyzel Surfboards, FCS and Raw Elements.

Equipment:

Pyzel Surfboards 5'4" Radius Prime, 5'4" Highline, and 5'2" Red Tiger.

Coach / Trainer:

Asher Nolan, Todd Holland (School of Surf) and Shane Beschen have all helped me to improve my surfing and work on contest strategy.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 6. I was riding a soft top at Haleiwa.

Local surfing spot:

RC's and Sebastian Inlet.

Local heroes::

Matt Kechele, Kelly Slater and Chauncey Robinson.

Surf crew:

I like to surf with my brother Kai, my Dad, Tim and some friends.

Favorite pro surfers::

John John Florence, Ethan Ewing and Cole Houshmand.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Skateboarding, Golf, Fishing, and Photography.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

I would want to surf like my favorite goofy footer Cole Houshmand. The guy surfs with so much power!

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Teddy Witteman, Ian Honda, Luke Lopez and Athan Robertson....these guys always push me to surf my best!

Fantasy superpower:

I would like to be able to fly.

Dream wave:

Overhead left reef break, crystal clear warm water, tube section and then rip off a bunch of turns.

Something people don't know about you:

I like baking, especially cookies from scratch.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

They are fun! Janice, Gayline, our local director Linda, and the whole crew do a great job keeping it organized and getting the best kids in the region together.

Contest playlist:

I like to stay quiet and focused before heats.

Goals for this season:

I want to perform my best and win titles at the NSSA Nationals and USA Surfing Championships.

Special people you would like to thank:

Mom and Dad for being my biggest supporters!

 

Surfer of the Week

BRYNN GALLAGHER

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN WOMENS (ALL AGES)

2ND  PLACE EXPLORER WOMENS (ALL AGES)

2024 EAST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS MAKES TW0 CAREER REGIONAL TITLES FOR BRYNN!

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Ocean City, New Jersey

School and grade:

Ocean City High School; 11th grade

Favorite subject:

Psychology and Science.

Sponsors:

Roxy, FCS, 7th Street Surf Shop and Carve Sunglasses.

Equipment:

5'9" Smith Shapes

Coach / Trainer:

Matt Keenan, Nate Garza and Michel Flores.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing when I was 6 years old. My dad took my sister Mia and I out and we instantly loved it!

Local surfing spot:

7th Street in Ocean City.

Local heroes::

Matt Keenan, Andrew Gesler, Randy Townsend and Rob Kelly!

Surf crew:

My dad, sister, and friends.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing, Cole Houshmand and Caity Simmers.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Lacrosse and the Swim Team at my High School.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

John John Florence

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Definitely my sister Mia. We constantly push each other with every surf session to keep getting better!

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation, so I can follow the waves and warm weather whenever.

Dream wave:

A perfect left hand point break.

Something people don't know about you:

I'm a total animal lover and have the cutest puppy named Rusty.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

It's always super fun to see my friends from all over and get to surf with them!

Contest playlist:

"I like it" by Cardi B is my go to hype song before competing.

Goals for this season:

Keep improving and be the best version of myself.

Special people you would like to thank:

My parents for supporting me and my dreams!!

 

Surfer of the Week

GABE GRIFFIN

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

3RD PLACE EXPLORER JUNIORS (U18)

2024 EAST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS MAKES TWO CAREER REGIONAL TITLES FOR GABE

Age

17

Hometown (City, State):

Fort Pierce, Florida

School and grade:

Florida Virtual School; 11th grade

Favorite subject:

Marine Science

Sponsors:

Monster Army, Freestyle Watches, Sunbum, PSD Underwear, Spunkys Surf Shop and Johnny B Good Boat Works.

Equipment:

5’10 Sharpeye, HT2 model

Coach / Trainer:

My surf coach is Michel Flores.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 6. My step dad took me to Fort Pierce Inlet.

Local surfing spot:

Fort Pierce Inlet

Local heroes::

Charles Williams

Surf crew:

Kole, Blaise, Jake, JB, Grayson, Kanon and Jay.

Favorite pro surfers::

Griffin Colapinto, Jordy Smith, Seabass, Ethan Ewing and John John.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Skateboarding, tubing and pickleball.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

If I could surf like anyone I would choose John John.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My mom, my step dad and my coach Michel Flores have pushed me the most.

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation

Dream wave:

Punta Rocas

Something people don't know about you:

I started skating before surfing.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

My favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests is the way they score and how they have a good organization.

Contest playlist:

I like to listen to a lot of hip hop to hype me up before my heats.

Goals for this season:

My goal for this season is to win a National Title.

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my mom, my step dad and my surf coach for supporting me throughout my surfing career.

 

Surfer of the Week

TEAGAN MEZA

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MINI GROM GIRLS  (U12)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 6 AT HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER

1ST PLACE OPEN SUPER GIRLS  (U14)

1ST PLACE OPEN MINI GROM GIRLS (U12)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 7 AT HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER

TEAGAN HAS FIVE WINS OVERALL IN THE 23/24 SEASON! SHE HAS EARNED THREE REGIONAL TITLES AND ONE NATIONAL TITLE SO FAR AND SHE WANTS MORE! 

Age

11 years old

Hometown (City, State):

Torrance, California

School and grade:

Blue Ridge Academy: 6th grade

Favorite subject:

Music, Art and PE.

Sponsors:

O’Neill, Creatures of Leisure, Future Fins, Sanuk, Channel Islands Surfboards, Nixon and Spyder Surf Shop.

Equipment:

5’1” Channel Islands Remix Pro, Creatures of Leisure Pad/Leash and Futures Fins Al Merrick Smalls. But I am growing so I rode a bigger board (my sisters) at the last event! 

Coach / Trainer:

Christian Saenz - Orange County Surf Coaching

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 4 1/2. My mom would take us down to Topaz in Redondo Beach and push us into waves all summer long. She made it fun and celebrated every wave we rode.

Local surfing spot:

Huntington Beach Pier and El Porto in Manhattan Beach.

Local heroes::

Greg Browning, Alex Gray, Hunter Jones and Pat Miller (my first surf coach).

Surf crew:

My sister London, Zoey Kaina, Wyatt Yount, the Castle brothers, Bailey Turner, Ava Wagester, the Storrer sisters, Peeta Kenworthy and Zöe Panettiere.

Favorite pro surfers::

Caity Simmers, John John Florence, Bethany Hamilton, Carissa Moore, Griffin Colapinto and Kelly Slater.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Skateboarding, Drumming, Art and Acting.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Caity Simmers because she’s RADICAL!

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Caity and John John because I like their technique and style.

Fantasy superpower:

The ability to freeze time.

Dream wave:

Getting barreled at Pipe.

Something people don't know about you:

I am the youngest person to drop in on a 11.5 ft vert ramp. I did it when I was 4 years old.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Putting on the jersey, being competitive and hanging out with my friends all day who live all over the place.

Contest playlist:

It depends on the day and my mood.

Goals for this season:

To win another NSSA National and Regional Title and to earn some more 10 point rides.

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank God, my parents, my sister London who paddles out with me every day, my brothers Cayden and Ocean, my Coach Christian Saenz who believes in me and pushes me to do my best, my sponsors and my surf crew who keep it fun every day.

 

Surfer of the Week

FYNN RAY NETH

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN JUNIORS  (U16)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 6 AT HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER.

IN THE JUNIORS FINAL, FYNN WAS COMBOED BY HIS THREE OPPONENTS WITH THREE MINUTES REMAINING IN THE HEAT. WITH TIME TICKING DOWN, HE PADDLED INTO A SET WAVE AND RIPPED IT TO SHREDS EARNING A 9.27 SCORE. AT THE 10 SECOND MARK, HE DROPPED A SOLID 6.93 WAVE TO SEAL HIS FIRST WIN IN THE OPEN JUNIORS. ALL IN THREE MINUTES! TALK ABOUT A CLUTCH PERFORMANCE AND STAYING COOL, CALM AND COLLECTED. WELL DONE FYNN! 

Age

15

Hometown (City, State):

Ventura, California 

School and grade:

Golden Valley Charter School; 9th grade.

Favorite subject:

Science

Sponsors:

Roberts Surfboards, Pro-Lite and Anacapa Surf N Sport.

Equipment:

5'9" Roberts shortboard (Dimitri Poulos' lucky hand-me-down!)

Coach / Trainer:

Mike Lamm

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing around 5 years old at Mondos on the nose of my dad's longboard.

Local surfing spot:

Ventura Harbor

Local heroes::

Robert Weiner, Sean Hayes, Dimitri Poulos, Dane Reynolds and Jabe Swierkocki.

Surf crew:

My brothers Owen and Larkin Neth and the Harbor crew.

Favorite pro surfers::

Dimitri Poulos, Jabe Swierkocki and all of the rippers on tour!

Hobbies other than surfing:

Cross-fit, yoga, golf and snowboarding.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Dimitri Poulos because of the way he approaches a wave. His bottom turn is my favorite.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother Owen. He is always pushing me. And we have the best time surfing together.

Fantasy superpower:

Aquaman, because he can breathe underwater and talk to creatures.

Dream wave:

I don't have a dream wave. I just love all waves.

Something people don't know about you:

I am a 5 star chef :) My pancakes are the bomb.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I love getting ready for contests and competing.

Contest playlist:

Black Out by TrashClub, Rascuache by At the Drive-in and Lost in a Lullaby by The Drowning Men.

Goals for this season:

To keep having fun.

Special people you would like to thank:

My Mom and Dad and Big L.

 

Surfer of the Week

COOPER SHANK

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 6 AT HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER

THIS VICTORY IS COOPER'S FIRST IN THE HIGHLY COMPETITIVE SW CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENTS AND THE WAVES WERE FIRING WHICH MAKES THIS WIN ALL THE BETTER!

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Capitola, California 

School and grade:

Soquel High School; 11th grade

Sponsors:

Pyzel Surfboards, Veia and Xcel.

Equipment:

5’9" Pyzel; Red Tiger model.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing when I was 8 years old. 

Local surfing spot:

Pleasure Point.

Local heroes::

Adam Replogle and Bud Freitas. 

Surf crew:

Mark Vincent, Noah Bregmem and Jackson Taylor.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing and all 3 Florence brothers.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Golf is super fun.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Someone with the power of John John, the flow of Ethan and the speed of Filipe.

Fantasy superpower:

An Air Reverse.

Dream wave:

A right that I can do a turn and get barreled on.

Something people don't know about you:

I have diabetes.

Contest playlist:

Bad Religion and Audioslave.

Goals for this season:

Put effort into handling wins and losses better and to just focus on having fun.

Special people you would like to thank:

My dad drives me up and down the coast for all the NSSA and USA Surfing contests and I can’t thank him enough for doing that for me!

 

Surfer of the Week

MAKANA FRANZMANN

Contest / Result:

1st place - College Mens over a a field of 138 competitors.

Makana won the finals with a 16.90 heat total which included a near perfect 9.77 score.

West Coast College Season Event #2 at Oceanside South Jetty on January 20-21

Age

19

Hometown (City, State):

North Shore Oahu, Hawaii

School and grade:

Point Loma Nazarene University, Sophomore.

Favorite subject:

Math, Biology and Art.

Sponsors:

Xcel, FCS and Dragon.

Equipment:

5’9" Chris Gallagher Designs.

Coach / Trainer:

N/A

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 5. My parents took me to a local break in Waikiki.  

Local surfing spot:

Rocky Point.

Local heroes::

Kalani David and Mason Ho.

Surf crew:

N/A

Favorite pro surfers::

Andy Irons and Noa Deane.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Drinking coffee!

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Ethan Ewing.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother Dylan. 

Fantasy superpower:

To breathe underwater.

Dream wave:

A Backdoor Bomb.

Something people don't know about you:

I grew up on the beach at Rockies. When I was growing up, I went skateboarding more than I surfed. 

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Being around friends. 

Contest playlist:

The Bruce Movie Soundtrack.

Goals for this season:

Surfing for the PLNU Surf Team and for the team to win events. 

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my parents.

 

Surfer of the Week

MATTEUS SANTOS

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

2ND PLACE EXPLORER MENS (ALL AGES)

2ND PLACE EXPLORER JUNIORS (U18)

HAWAII CONFERENCE EVENT AT BANYANS, BIG ISLAND

Age

17

Hometown (City, State):

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

School and grade:

Hawaii Technology Academy; 11th grade

Favorite subject:

Math and English.

Sponsors:

AVVA Clothing, Minami Surfboards, Narval Wetsuits, Ultra Traction, Hele Fitness, Mokulele Airlines, Sun Yoga Hawaii and Kokua Suncare.

Equipment:

Minami Surfboards: 5'9" Blaze Model, 5'9" Blizz Model, 5'11" and 6'2" F2 Model.

Coach / Trainer:

Pedro Robalinho

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 6. My dad push me in at Baby Queens in Waikiki and inside Haleiwa.

Local surfing spot:

Sandy Beach, East of Honolulu.

Local heroes::

Ezekiel Lau, Kekoa Cazimero, Kaulana Apo and Seth Moniz.

Surf crew:

The AVVA Team, my 12 year old brother Lucca and local friends.

Favorite pro surfers::

Gabriel Medina, Italo Ferreira and Ethan Ewing.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Dirt biking, fishing and working on trucks.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Gabriel Medina

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My parents and my sponsor and professional surfer Kekoa Cazimero.

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation, so I could go anywhere in the world and score perfect waves. I love barrels lefts and rights.

Dream wave:

Skeleton bay because its a long barreling left that goes for miles.

Something people don't know about you:

I really enjoy working on cars. I also help my family at our farm business Sun Farm Hawaii.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Competing with all my friends from the islands and surfing different breaks throughout the islands. Seeing friends that I have made all of these years at the contests and the new ones I have made from all of the regions at the Nationals.

Contest playlist:

Reggae music and rap.

Goals for this season:

I have only placed 2nd at Regionals and Nationals so my goal for this year is to win a Regional and National final. I want to finish my amateur career as a National Champion!

Special people you would like to thank:

I want to thank all of my sponsors, my family, Glen Minami for shaping my boards since I was 11 years old and Kahea Hart for coaching me throughout the years for the Regionals and Nationals. I have learned a lot from him. I also want to thank my current coach Pedro Robalinho and Kekoa Cazimero for always pushing me to do my best. Also, the amazing Hawaiian surfers that I have been competing with all of these years.

 

Surfer of the Week

EELI TIMPERI

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 5 AT SEASIDE REEF

THIS MAKES TWO WINS IN OPEN MENS IN THE 22/23 SEASON

2023 NATIONAL OPEN JUNIORS U16 CHAMPION

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Encinitas, California

School and grade:

San Dieguito Academy: 11th grade.

Favorite subject:

Small Business Entrepreneurship

Sponsors:

Rip Curl, Sharp Eye Surfboards, FCS, Dragon, Surf Ride and Sindi’s Snack Shack.

Equipment:

Sharp Eye Surfboards 5’9" round tail #77 model.

Coach / Trainer:

Taylor Clark

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 7 with my dad at a mushy wave in Encinitas.

Local surfing spot:

Seaside Reef

Local heroes::

Jake Marshall, Taylor Clark, Levi Slawson and Rob Machado.

Surf crew:

Titus, Tommy, Kyan, Dane, Sutton, Kayden, Brody and Lukas.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing and Jake Marshall.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Pickleball and golf.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Ethan Ewing

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My Dad. 

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation so I could go surf anywhere in the world.

Dream wave:

The snake from the Mick Fanning Search movie.

Something people don't know about you:

I played ice hockey when I was really young.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I love how competitive it is. Also the fact we are able to practice the 20 minute 4-man heats with priority rules a lot.

Contest playlist:

A little bit of hip-hop and some rock mixed in their as well.

Goals for this season:

Win the Regionals and the Nationals.

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my parents for always pushing me to do my best. I would also like to thank the crew at Seaside for always pushing the level.

 

Surfer of the Week

MARLO LEIGH HARRIS

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN WOMENS (ALL AGES)

4TH PLACE OPEN GIRLS (U16)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 4 AT CHURCH

2X NATIONAL OPEN SUPER GIRLS U14 CHAMPION

Age

14

Hometown (City, State):

Dana Point, California 

School and grade:

Dana Hills High School; 9th Grade

Favorite subject:

Art and Surf Class!

Sponsors:

Rip Curl, Betty Belts, Clean Juice, Leus and Channel Islands.

Equipment:

5’5" Channel Island, Happy Everyday Model

Coach / Trainer:

Mainly my Dad.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing when I was a baby on a foamy. My brother Logan would always surf with friends when we were younger and I always wanted to do what he did. So my dad and him taught me the basics. Soon after that I fell in love with the ocean. I have been competing since I was 10. 

Local surfing spot:

Salt Creek and Lower Trestles.

Local heroes::

Griffin Colapinto, Cole Houshmand, Sawyer Lindblad and Kolton Sullivan.

Surf crew:

Sometimes I surf with my brother but mostly I surf alone. 

Favorite pro surfers::

Griffin Colapinto, Cole Houshmand and Sawyer Lindblad.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Cross Country, seashell hunting and exploring.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

It would be Cole Houshmand. I love how powerful his backside is and the amount of spray he throws.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother Logan.

Fantasy superpower:

To breath and see underwater so i can surf bigger waves without being scared!

Dream wave:

Bells Beach. I have always wanted to surf that dreamy right hander.

Something people don't know about you:

I go to real school..Everyday, all day at Dana Hills High School.

I am on High School Varsity Surf, Cross Country and Track teams this season.

I won the South Coast League Championship at Barbwires. The heat was me versus the whole San Clemente team and they were all NSSA surfers!

I also helped my team win the CIF Cross County Championship the same day that my brother won.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Traveling to different surf spots, always learning something new and being challenged. My divisions are stacked!!

Contest playlist:

Sublime, The Smiths and The Rolling Stones.

Goals for this season:

I want to win the Southwest Conference Open Womens and Open Girls Season Titles. I also want to win both divisions in the National Championships!!

Special people you would like to thank:

I am grateful for my amazing supportive family, especially my dogs 🐶 who greet me after every NSSA comp with a smile and wagging tails!

 

Surfer of the Week

LILIE KULBER

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE COLLEGE WOMENS

2023/24 WEST COAST COLLEGE SEASON OPENING DAY EVENT 1

SOUTHSIDE OF HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER


 
Age

19

Hometown (City, State):

Laguna Beach, California

School and grade:

UCLA; Sophomore

Favorite subject:

Business Management and Entrepreneurship.

Sponsors:

Xcel, Killer Dana Surf Shop and T. Patterson Surfboards.

Equipment:

5'7" T. Patterson, Gas Pedal model.

Coach / Trainer:

Dillon Perillo

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 7 at a Doheny Surf Camp.

Local surfing spot:

Topanga

Local heroes::

Mike Cruickshank and Jeff Booth.

Surf crew:

Xavier Math, Noah Steinmetz, Jade Blair, Aidan Sautner and Raiki Nishida.

Favorite pro surfers::

Dillon Perillo

Hobbies other than surfing:

Yoga, weightlifting, going out, EDM music, tennis, reading, podcasts, health and nutrition.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Andy Irons

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother, my dad, but mostly myself and my own desire to succeed and self improve.

Fantasy superpower:

To read minds. 

Dream wave:

Any right point break with no one out and Scorpion Bay.

Something people don't know about you:

I am French. 

I am a Chemical Engineering major so I can be a nerd .

I work for WSL as a year long intern.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Janice and Gayline! Their positive energy and dedication to these competitions is what makes it all possible! Also just seeing all of my friends from different colleges and getting to compete with my team and represent my school.

Contest playlist:

2AM by Don Toliver; Marea (We’ve Lost Dancing) by Fred again..

Goals for this season:

My goals are to go undefeated this season and defend my National Title. I also want to win my first QS event and qualify for Challenger Series.

Special people you would like to thank:

My parents, my brother, my UCLA Team (especially Noah Steinmetz), Xavier Math and my Kappa Sisters.

 

Surfer of the Week

MADDIE STANTON

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN GIRLS (U16)

4TH PLACE OPEN WOMENS (ALL AGES)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 3 AT OCEANSIDE PIER

 

1ST  PLACE OPEN GIRLS (U16)

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 1 AT PLEASURE POINT

3RD PLACE OPEN GIRLS (U16)

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 2 AT THE HOOK

 

2ND PLACE EXPLORER WOMENS (ALL AGES)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE EXPLORER SEASON EVENTS 1 and 2

 

Age

15

Hometown (City, State):

Encinitas, California 

School and grade:

Audeo High School; 9th Grade

Favorite subject:

Art

Sponsors:

Roxy, Channel Islands, Electric, Aloha and Leus.

Equipment:

5'4" CI Pro 2.0

Coach / Trainer:

My dad and Jason Kenworthy.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 7. I used to tandem with my dad at our home breaks and Nicaragua. I went on a  trip to Nica in 2015 with Kaydn Persidok's family which is where I fell in love with surfing.

Local surfing spot:

Seaside Reef

Local heroes::

Sawyer Lindblad, Alyssa Spencer, Caity Simmers & Caroline Marks.

Surf crew:

Kaydn Persidok, Eden Walla, Kaia Howard, Shea Sherman, Brynley Beckman, Reid VanWagoner and my sister Tyler Stanton.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing, Caroline Marks and Caity Simmers.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Art, Skating and Fishing.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Gabriel Medina because of his style, airs and tube riding.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My dad.

Fantasy superpower:

To be able to fly!

Dream wave:

Macaronis, Mentawis in Indo.

Something people don't know about you:

I am a dog trainer.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I love the priority, longer heats, live scoring and surfing with my friends.

Contest playlist:

Zach Bryan

Goals for this season:

I want to win a Regional and National title. I also want to win the Air Show!

Special people you would like to thank:

My parents and my grandparents for always supporting me, my coach Jason and all of my sponsors.

 

Surfer of the Week

JAK ZIETS

Contest / Result:

BACK TO BACK FOR JAK!

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 1 AT THE POINT

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 2 AT THE HOOK

Age

17

Hometown (City, State):

Santa Barbara, California

School and grade:

Santa Barbara High School; Senior

Favorite subject:

Finance

Sponsors:

Rip Curl, Channel Island Surfboards, Still Frothy, Electric, Sunbum, Creatures or Leisure, Future fins, Sex Wax and Leus.

Equipment:

5’10" CI Pro, Spinetech

Coach / Trainer:

My Dad.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 5. I walked down to my local wave and started with my Dad. 

Local surfing spot:

Henry’s Beach and Sandspit.

Local heroes::

Parker Coffin, Bobby Martinez and Conner Coffin.

Surf crew:

Dominic Arce and my Dad.

Favorite pro surfers::

Bobby Martinez and Parker Coffin.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Golfing. 

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Bobby Martinez, because he has the best backhand in the world and his surfing is so clean and gnarly.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My Dad and Ian Grose.

Fantasy superpower:

To be able to teleport.

Dream wave:

Skeleton Bay

Something people don't know about you:

I am into diving and beach volleyball.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

NSSA contests are some of the most fun events. The waves are always sick and it is great to put the jersey on with my friends.

Contest playlist:

Kendrick Lamar and Drake.

Goals for this season:

Better my surfing, travel to new places and win one more National Title. 

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my family for always supporting me and Walt Cerney for always having my back and supporting me. Thank you to everyone at Channel Islands Surfboards for giving me the best boards under my feet. And thank you to Uncle D (Dave Letinsky) for being the best mentor I could ask for!

 

Surfer of the Week

EDEN WALLA

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN WOMENS MENS (ALL AGES)

1ST PLACE OPEN GIRLS (U16)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 2 AT SALT CREEK

Age

14

Hometown (City, State):

San Clemente, California

School and grade:

Cabrillo Point Academy; 8th grade.

Favorite subject:

Social Studies

Sponsors:

Rip Curl, Lost Surfboards, Electric, Murf, FCS, Jacks Surfboards and Riffe.

Equipment:

Lost Surfboards 5’2" Sub Driver

Coach / Trainer:

John Daniels

Age you started surfing:

One and a half years old. On the front of my dad's board at Doheny.

Local surfing spot:

Lowers and Oceanside.

Local heroes::

Caity Simmers, Kolohe Andino, Caroline Marks and Griffin Colopinto.

Surf crew:

My brother Zion and my dad. And the Encinitas girl crew.

Favorite pro surfers::

The same as my local heroes!

Hobbies other than surfing:

Fishing, spearfishing, rock climbing, and tennis.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

I want to surf like Caity Simmers and Caroline Marks.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother Zion has pushed me the most in surfing.

Fantasy superpower:

To be able to breath under water.

Dream wave:

Snapper

Something people don't know about you:

I like to bake.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Having the opportunity to compete so regularly.

Contest playlist:

Zach Bryan

Goals for this season:

I want to win the Open Women’s and Open Girls U16 at Nationals.

Special people you would like to thank:

God, my whole family, and all of my sponsors.

 

Surfer of the Week

GAVIN LUSBY

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 2 AT SALT CREEK

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Huntington Beach, California

School and grade:

Cabrillo Academy: 11th grade

Favorite subject:

English and Physics.

Sponsors:

Hurley, Channel Islands Surfboards, Huntington Surf and Sport, Creatures of Leisure, Futures, Vertra, Sessions West Coast Deli and Java Point.

Equipment:

5’9" Channel Islands, CI pro model.

Coach / Trainer:

Christian Saenz

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 5 in Santa Cruz. 

Local surfing spot:

Huntington Beach Pier

Local heroes::

Brett Simpson, Christian and Jake Saenz.

Surf crew:

I surf with the local crew at HB Pier.

Favorite pro surfers::

John John Florence and Julian Wilson.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Working out, fishing, boxing, biking, and video games.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

John John Florence.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My family and Christian Saenz.

Fantasy superpower:

To be able to teleport to any surf break.

Dream wave:

Snapper Rocks, Australia.

Something people don't know about you:

My sister Olivia introduced me to surfing.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Having the opportunity to compete against the top surfers in the nation.

Contest playlist:

Coldplay, Elvin Bishop and Florence + the Machine.

Goals for this season:

To win the Open Mens at the Nationals.

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my family for all the support they have given me over the years. I wouldn’t be here without them. Secondly I would like to thank Christian Saenz, because I have been with him since second grade and he has pushed me over the years to reach the best of my abilities. I would also like to thank Brett Simpson for being an inspiration to me. Lastly, thank you to my sponsors for their non stop support throughout my career!

 

Surfer of the Week

LUKE MACBETH

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 1 AT VENTURA HARBOR

Age

15

Hometown (City, State):

Carlsbad, California

School and grade:

Carlsbad High School and Carlsbad Seaside Academy; 10th grade.

Favorite subject:

Surf PE.

Sponsors:

Xanadu Surfboards, Matuse Wetsuits and Sun Diego Boardshops.

Equipment:

5’6" Xanadu Surfboard, X21 model.

Coach / Trainer:

My surf coach is Rusty Phillipy.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at around age 10 or 11.

Local surfing spot:

Tamarack Beach in Carlsbad.

Local heroes::

Carlsbad Surf Team Coach Jake Blackburn and Taylor Knox.

Surf crew:

The Tamarack crew.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing, Griffin Colapinto, and Mick Fanning.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Football and Carver boarding.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Ethan Ewing because of the lines and power he produces.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My Dad has pushed my surfing because I surfed whitewash waves from ages 10 and 11. 

Fantasy superpower:

To be able to teleport.

Dream wave:

Barra de La Cruz.

Something people don't know about you:

I have a house in Mexico with my cousins and grandparents.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I get to compete with some of the nations best surfers. The contests are really fun to hang out with everyone and prepare for my heats.

Contest playlist:

I don’t listen to music before comps.

Goals for this season:

My goal is to surf better than last year in comps and to get better from practicing with my great coach Rusty.

Special people you would like to thank:

I want to thank my coach Rusty Phillipy and also my coaches at Carlsbad High School coach Blackburn and coach Cooper. I would also like to thank my sponsors for all the support they provide for me. Lastly, I would like to thank my parents for all they do for me and how they take me to these contests. They use their weekends and free time that they work really hard for to support me at all of the events.

 

Surfer of the Week

BEN ALLEN

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE COLLEGE MENS

2023/24 SOUTHEAST/NORTH COLLEGE SEASON OPENING DAY EVENT 1 

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FLORIDA

Age

19

Hometown (City, State):

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

School and grade:

Flagler College; Sophomore

Favorite subject:

Oceanography

Sponsors:

Parrot Surf Shop

Equipment:

5’11" AJW X-Stump, 6’6" Ken White Shapes Asym Twin and a 6’0" Alton single fin

Coach / Trainer:

N/A

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 4. My dad and I found an old bright yellow Channel Islands board that had been duct taped back together on the side of the road!

Local surfing spot:

25th Avenue at home and 10th Street when I’m at school.

Local heroes::

My Dad, Jimmy Thompson, Cam Richards and Luke Gordon. All of the rippers from South Carolina.

Surf crew:

Nolan, Collin, Easton, Nick, Jack, Scott, and Ben G, Brycen and Ronan.

Favorite pro surfers::

Jimmy Thompson, Cam Richards, Cliff Kapono, Bryce Young and Torren Martyn.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Skating, fishing and fixing boards.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Frontside, Mikey February. Backside, Ramzi Boukhaim.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My Mom and Dad have pushed my surfing the most. They always pushed me to get better, charge and have fun while doing it.

Fantasy superpower:

Breathing underwater as it would make it way easier to surf big waves.

Dream wave:

Any right hand slab with nobody out except a few friends.

Something people don't know about you:

I am left handed.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Spending time with friends on the beach and surfing contests when the waves are pumping.

Contest playlist:

Black Sabbath, Smashing Pumpkins, Pink Floyd, Junior Kimbrough, Jimi Hendrix and Ty Segall. Also any songs from the Interlusion Movie by Billabong.

Goals for this season:

Hopefully to win a couple more contests and do well at Regionals and Nationals.

Special people you would like to thank:

My parents, sister, Linda for running the contests and everyone from the Flagler Surf Team. Also my girlfriend Gabby for spending all day on the beach for the contest!

 

Surfer of the Week

BRODY PRICE

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE EXPLORER MENS (all ages) Gold Coast event #1 at C Street Pipe - September 9 

1ST PLACE EXPLORER BOYS (14U) Gold Coast event #1 at C Street Pipe - September 9 

1ST PLACE EXPLORER MENS (all ages) Gold Coast event #2 at C Street Pipe - September 10

1ST PLACE EXPLORER BOYS (14U) Gold Coast event #2 at C Street Pipe - September 10 

WON 12 OF 16 HEATS!

Age

14

Hometown (City, State):

Santa Cruz, California 

School and grade:

New Brighton Middle School; 8th grade.

Favorite subject:

PE and Humanities.

Sponsors:

Volcom, Buell, Sunbum, Electric, Rainbow Fins, Sharpeye Surfboards, Pacific Wave Surf Shop, Merge 4 Socks, Creatures of Leisure and Surfeeling Surf Skates.

Equipment:

5’3” Sharpeye HT2 model

Coach / Trainer:

Andre Gioranelli and Christian Saenz.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 2. My uncle and dad took me surfing near Capitola.

Local surfing spot:

Pleasure Point slightly north of the point.

Local heroes::

Shawn Dollar, Peter Mel, Flea, Matt and Tim Lacky, Bud Freitas, Austin Smith-Ford, Adam Replogle, Mark Taylor… I could go on forever!

Surf crew:

All the Santa Cruz groms.

Favorite pro surfers::

Nat Young, Griffin Colapinto, Mick Fanning, Ethan Ewing and Filipe Toledo.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Basketball and boxing. 

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Filipe because he is the best (or Cooper Shank)!

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

All the local heros and some of my friends like Adam Bartlett, James Daniel and Jackson Taylor.

Fantasy superpower:

To breathe underwater.

Dream wave:

Somewhere with a barrel and an air section.

Something people don't know about you:

I love to play basketball.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Hanging out with all of my friends and surfing fun waves.

Contest playlist:

Middle Child by J Cole.

Goals for this season:

My goals are to surf better than ever before!

Special people you would like to thank:

My Mom, Dad and sister Munchie.

 

Surfer of the Week

Jonathan Wallhauser

Contest / Result:

2023 CAPTAIN OF THE YEAR

FOUR YEAR MEMBER OF THE UCF SURF TEAM

THREE YEARS SERVING AS THE UCF SURF TEAM CAPTAIN. 

CURRENT PRESIDENT OF THE UCF SURF TEAM.

1ST PLACE COLLEGE LONGBOARD

2023 EAST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Age

22

Hometown (City, State):

Satellite Beach, Florida

School and grade:

University of Central Florida. Senior 

Graduate Degree in Computer Engineering 

College GPA: 3.3

  

Favorite subject:

Physics

Sponsors:

Quiet Flight Surfboards and Wicked Pineapple.

Equipment:

9'2.5" QuietFlight Ultra Glide, 5'5.5" Quiet Flight Black Marlin, 5'9" Quiet Flight Vandal

Coach / Trainer:

John Holeman

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 4. Pushed in on a foamy at the end of the street with my dad!

Local surfing spot:

RC's in Satellite Beach (When at home) and New Smyrna Inlet in NSB (When at UCF)!

Local heroes::

John Holeman, the Hobgood Brothers and Kelly Slater, hands down!! I loved watching the local guys go big on tour. 

Surf crew:

The Dreamerboys: Zane Webb, Zack Sjuggerud, Matthew Zuhlke, Fergi Kelly, Reed Zipperer, Koa Webb, and Diego Alderfer

Favorite pro surfers::

CJ Hobgood, Kelly Slater, Parko and Taj Burrow.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Fly fishing, Boating, Photography and Film.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

For longboard like Justin Quintal and shortboard like Parko in his prime! That's the best of both worlds.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

First person who comes to mind is my dad. He would always push me the most through both good and poor results and helped keep me focused on the important lessons surfing has to teach! Growing up in the Space Coast with some ridiculously good surfers during my time as a grom to compete against always helped push me too.

Fantasy superpower:

Flying... It would vastly improve my air game.

Dream wave:

Cloud Break, Fiji

Something people don't know about you:

I play the Ukulele!

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Getting to grow up competing with lifelong friends, seeing them go to other colleges and just to do the same! There is something so cool and special about the connections NSSA contests bring out in people. Forever grateful for the friends I made through contests as a grom and throughout college! Competing in NSSA contests helped me realize how much I enjoyed surfing both a shortboard and longboard. The level of competition was always top notch and pushed me to stay as sharp as possible!

Contest playlist:

The soundtrack from Taylor Steele's surf film: Trilogy.

Goals for this season:

Make the final in both shortboard and longboard at Nationals!

Special people you would like to thank:

I would genuinely like to thank my family for their unmatched support through my journey in surfing and life. I would also like to shoutout my A team and fellow officers on the Surf Team at UCF. I made some lifelong friends through this team and had the craziest times with this crew! Finally, I'd like to thank the likes of Bruce Ragan for taking my surfing to the next level with his boards shaped under Quiet Flight.

Special Thanks to Ron Jon's Surf Shop for all they do in supporting the UCF Surf Team. Without them, none of this would be possible!! Go Knights, and Charge On! 

Thanks all!

 

Surfer of the Week

HANA BAKKER

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN GIRLS  (U16)

2023 WEST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS WAS HANA'S FIRST REGIONAL TITLE!

Age

15

Hometown (City, State):

Capistrano Beach, California 

School and grade:

San Clemente High School: 9th grade. 4.0 GPA!

Favorite subject:

English

Sponsors:

Cyber Wetsuits, Rumaner Surfboards, Doors Surf Studio, Tools and Ronin.

Equipment:

5’ 6.5" Rumaner Surfboards; Valkyrie model.

Coach / Trainer:

My parents.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at age 2. My parents took me out at Doheny State Beach on softtops.

Local surfing spot:

Lower Trestles, Salt Creek and San Clemente Pier.

Local heroes::

Lakey Peterson and Caroline Marks.

Surf crew:

Parker, Enzo, Mason, Hila, Matan, Tava, Zeland, Ellie, Remy, Eryk, Tanner and Harvey.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing, Lakey Peterson, Griffin Colapinto and Caroline Marks,

Hobbies other than surfing:

Jiujitsu

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Stephanie Gilmore

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My family and friends.

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation.

Dream wave:

Keramas, Bali.

Something people don't know about you:

I can speak fluent Japanese.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Going to other beaches that I usually would not go to and being able to meet new people.

Contest playlist:

AC/DC, Red hot Chili Peppers, Foreigner, INXS and Hall and Oates.

Goals for this season:

To win at least one contest. (And you accomplished that in a major way Hana! Congratulations from the NSSA!)

Special people you would like to thank:

My family, friends and sponsors.

 

Surfer of the Week

FINN CASTLE

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MINI GROMS (U12) 

1ST PLACE EXPLORER MENEHUENE (U13)

2023 WEST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS MAKES THREE CAREER REGIONAL TITLES FOR FINN!

Age

11

Hometown (City, State):

Huntington Beach, California

School and grade:

Cabrillo Point Academy: 5th grade

Favorite subject:

Math

Sponsors:

Quiksilver, Huntington Surf and Sport, Sessions West Coast Deli, Carver Skateboards, Pro-Lite and Bubblegum Surf Wax.

Equipment:

5'3" Timmy Patterson, AI model.

Coach / Trainer:

Christian Saenz at Orange County Surf Coaching.

Age you started surfing:

My dad would push me into waves around age 6 at Blackies in Newport, Brookhurst Street in HB and Hanalei Bay, Kauai. When I was 9-years-old, we got a soft top and I loved surfing Leo Carrillo. From then on, I was hooked and started surfing consistently.

Local surfing spot:

HB Pier

Local heroes::

Kanoa Igarashi

Surf crew:

Makai Castle, Wyatt Yount, Teagan Meza, London Meza, Nehemiah Willmer, Dylan Shemke, Zoey Kaina and Grey Walker.

Favorite pro surfers::

Kanoa Igarashi and Griffin Colapinto.

Hobbies other than surfing:

I got a piano for Christmas and I play every day. I love it.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Griffin Colapinto. I love his style and his insane blowtails.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother Makai Castle. He works so hard and loves surfing more than anyone I know.

Fantasy superpower:

My fantasy superpower would be teleportation because I would be able to surf any spot for free, instantly.

Dream wave:

Perfect right hand barrel that goes for a minute and starts with a mellow takeoff and ends with an air section.

Something people don't know about you:

I play piano and I love chess. I also love doing math problems in my head.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I like being able to compete against the best kids in the area. I also love hanging with my friends all day on the beach.

Contest playlist:

Metallica For Whom the Bell Tolls and AFI Death of Seasons.

Goals for this season:

I want to win either the Nationals or USA Champs!

Special people you would like to thank:

My parents, my brother Makai, and my surf coach Christian Saenz.

 

Surfer of the Week

KAI KUSHNER

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES) 

2023 WEST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS MAKES THREE CAREER REGIONAL TITLES FOR KAI!

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Manhattan Beach, California

School and grade:

Fusion Academy; 10th grade

Favorite subject:

Japanese

Sponsors:

Rip Curl, Channel Islands, Future Fins, Dakine and Electric Sunglasses.

Equipment:

Channel Islands Surfboard 5'8 1/2" Spinetec Cheese Stick

Coach / Trainer:

Toma and Chess Fitness.

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at 4 years old with my Dad. 

Local surfing spot:

30th Street in Manhattan Beach and Huntington Beach Pier.

Local heroes::

Alex Gray

Surf crew:

No surf crew here, but some local groms are coming up!

Favorite pro surfers::

Jack Robinson, Andy Irons and Ethan Ewing.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Playing guitar and speaking Japanese.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Andy Irons

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Josh Burke

Fantasy superpower:

Teleporting.

Dream wave:

8 foot barreling into a turn section, A frame, warm water with just my freinds out.

Something people don't know about you:

I used to play club soccer but ended up choosing surfing. I like story writing and won a silver key in a wrting competition.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

There are always good vibes at the contests and it is fun surfing with my friends.
 

Contest playlist:

Green Day, Talking Heads and Johnny Cash.

Goals for this season:

Win the Nationals!

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my parents for all their loving support, my dad for being the best travel partner and my mom for getting all of the clips. Thank you Juliano for keeping the vibes high at my local break and running mock heats with me. Thank you Toma San for being the best surf sensei and Japanese teacher...Arigatou Gozaimasu! Thank you to Brent Powers for believng in me and Mike Andrews for shaping the magic sticks. I would like to thank Noah at Rip Curl for being a hammer and always gearing me up and all my sponsors for supporting me.

 

Surfer of the Week

LANEA HANALEI MONS

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN WOMENS (ALL AGES)

1ST PLACE OPEN GIRLS (U16)

1ST PLACE EXPLORER WOMENS (ALL AGES)

1ST PLACE EXPLORER GIRLS (U15)

2023 EAST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS MAKES SIX CAREER REGIONAL TITLES FOR LANEA!

 

Age

14

Hometown (City, State):

Atlantic Beach, Florida 

School and grade:

Florida Virtual School: 8th grade

Favorite subject:

Math

Sponsors:

My sponsors are just absolutely AMAZING. Volcom, Pyzel Surfboards, Sunrise Surf Shop, Mr. Zogs Sexwax, Future Fins and Marloru Bags. I love them all so much and I am so grateful for their support.

Equipment:

4'11 Pyzel Shadow Grom in electra epoxy.

Coach / Trainer:

Asher Nolan

Age you started surfing:

My dad always pushed me into waves when I was younger and rode with me on his board. At age 9, I went to Coach Evan Thompson's Surf School and got super hooked on catching my own waves and learning all of the important details. Then I jumped right into competing.

Local surfing spot:

Jacksonville Beach Pier, the Poles, and OW.

Local heroes::

Karina Petroni, Cody, Evan and Tristan Thompson and Asher Nolan.

Surf crew:

My Dad, Dane, Ava, Benji, Kai, Coach Motes, Coach Asher, Coach Evan, Coach Tristan, and my Grandpa on Kauai.

Favorite pro surfers::

Gabriela Bryan, John John, Stephanie Gilmore, Jack Robinson, Yago Dora, Molly Picklum and Sierra Kerr.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Cooking/Baking, art, long walks on the beach with my puppy and yoga.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

A mix of Yago's style, JJF's power, and Steph's flow.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My Dad.

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation for surf trips to epic destinations.

Dream wave:

Kandui!!!!!! or Macaronis!!!!!! I actually love all waves, I just love surfing.

Something people don't know about you:

I can make really good charcuterie boards.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Lots of repetitions and practice surfing heats in all kinds of conditions with really good competition and good judging.

Contest playlist:

TAYLOR SWIFT all the way!

Goals for this season:

Win a National Title.

Special people you would like to thank:

My parents, my sister, my dog, my amazing surf community in Jax, Coach Slash, the Jax Boardrider Club and Coaches, the ABSOLUTE BEST sponsors I could ever ask for!!!! The Volcom crew, DT, Mr. Richie, Mrs. Reme, my Sunrise Surf Shop family, the Pyzel crew, Uncle D. with Mr Zogs, my Marloru family and Mr. Robbins with Future Fins. I would also like to thank the Desoto Ohana. I got to stay with them this past winter and surf the North Shore and Pipe and it definitely helped my surfing so much. I am so grateful and stoked to have them all.

 

Surfer of the Week

BRAEDEN KOPEC

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

1ST PLACE EXPLORER MENS (ALL AGES)

1ST PLACE EXPLORER JUNIORS (U18)

2023 EAST COAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS MAKES NINE CAREER REGIONAL TITLES FOR BRAEDEN!

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Ponce Inlet, Florida

School and grade:

Florida Virtual School: 11th grade.

Favorite subject:

Math, Biology and Art.

Sponsors:

O'Neill, Monster, Channel Islands Surfboards, Nixon, FCS, Sticky Bumps, Sunbum and The Surf Station.

Equipment:

Channel Islands Happy Everyday & CI Pro models.

Coach / Trainer:

Tonmo Tomatsuri

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing when I was 3 years old on the nose of my dad's longboard.

Local surfing spot:

Ponce Inlet jetty.

Local heroes::

Shea and Cory Lopez, Eric and Evan Geiselman, and Michael Dunphy.

Surf crew:

Corbin and Dawson.

Favorite pro surfers::

Definitely Gabriel Medina, Ethan Ewing and Griffin Colapinto.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Boxing and golfing.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Ethan Ewing

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My competitors and myself.

Fantasy superpower:

To breath underwater.

Dream wave:

Firing Soup Bowl.

Something people don't know about you:

I am really good at chess.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

How consistent the events are.

Contest playlist:

A lot of Eminem.

Goals for this season:

To win the Nationals.

Special people you would like to thank:

My parents, friends, sponsors, and truly everyone that has helped or supported me along the way.

 

Surfer of the Week

MERRIK MOCHKATEL

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN BOYS (U14)

1ST PLACE EXPLORER MENEHUENE (U13)

2023 HAWAII REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Age

12

Hometown (City, State):

Waialua, Hawaii

School and grade:

Kanu o ka Aina School; Grade 6

Favorite subject:

Math

Sponsors:

Billabong, HIC, K Tokoro Surfboards, Nixon, Mokulele Airlines and Da Kine Surf.

Equipment:

5’2” HIC K Tokoro Surfboards, HiPer model

Coach / Trainer:

Rainos Hayes and Keanu Asing.

Age you started surfing:

I was 5-years-old. I got my first soft top for my birthday and paddled out with my dad after school at White Plains.

Local surfing spot:

Hale’iwa

Local heroes::

Andy Irons and John John Florence.

Surf crew:

Whichever kids are out. There are always friends in the water.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing

Hobbies other than surfing:

Jiu jitsu and spearfishing.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Ethan Ewing

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Andy Irons because his surfing is so powerful and he’s a legend.

Fantasy superpower:

To hold my breath underwater as long as needed.

Dream wave:

Green Bush

Something people don't know about you:

I used to live on an island in Alaska named Kodiak.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I get to see all the kids from all over the islands or the country. It is super fun to make friends and get to surf together.

Contest playlist:

Heroes and Villains.

Goals for this season:

Win a National Title!

Special people you would like to thank:

My Mom and Dad, and all my coaches, sponsors, family and friends.

Thank u NSSA! This was cool!

 

Surfer of the Week

NALU DEODATO

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

2023 HAWAII REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

 

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Haleiwa, Hawaii

School and grade:

Penn Foster; 11th grade.

Favorite subject:

Art

Sponsors:

Volcom, Tokoro Surfboards, Creatures of Leisure, Sunbum, 3rd Stone Glassing, Matunas and Futures Fins.

Equipment:

5'10" Tokoro Surfboards, K3 model.

Coach / Trainer:

I don't have a coach or trainer. 

Age you started surfing:

I started when I was age 3. My parents took me to Puena Point.

Local surfing spot:

Haleiwa Ali’i Beach Park

Local heroes::

John John Florence

Surf crew:

Luke, Nolan and Keone.

Favorite pro surfers::

Griffin Colapinto, Joao Chianca and Ethan Ewing.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Golf and Spearfishing.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Griffin Colapinto

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Probably the people I surf with every day and Luke Tema.

Fantasy superpower:

Invisibility

Dream wave:

SuperSuck, Sumbawa, Indonesia

Something people don't know about you:

I like surfing when it’s crowded.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Competing against my friends.

Contest playlist:

I don’t really listen to music before heats.

Goals for this season:

Win the USA Surfing Championships, make the quarters or better in the upcoming Hawaii Regional QS, I also would like to go to Indo and make a sick edit.

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my family, Mom, Dad and my sponsors.

 

Surfer of the Week

HAN ODRIOZOLA

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE OPEN MENS (ALL AGES)

1ST PLACE OPEN JUNIORS (U16)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE OPEN SEASON EVENT 7 AT HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER

Age

15

Hometown (City, State):

I’m from Spain. I live in San Sebastián but currently I am spending this year in California.

School and grade:

Edison High School: 10th Grade.

Favorite subject:

Math and Physics.

Sponsors:

Ripcurl, Pukas, EDP, FCS, Sticky Bumps and eGlove.

Equipment:

5’3” Pukas x Mayhem, Pocket Rocket

Coach / Trainer:

n/a

Age you started surfing:

I was age five. My parents took me to a local break in Waikiki.

Local surfing spot:

Zurriola Beach in San Sebastian and Huntington Beach Pier.

Local heroes::

n/a

Surf crew:

n/a

Favorite pro surfers::

Filipe Toledo and Mick Fanning.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Filipe Toledo

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother Kai who is two years older than me.

Fantasy superpower:

n/a

Something people don't know about you:

n/a

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Many pro surfers have grown up competing in NSSA contests and to be doing the same as them motivates me.

Contest playlist:

n/a

Goals for this season:

Have good results in the last comps I do while I am here in California, have good performances in the European WSL Pro Junior and make the final again in the ISA World Junior Championships.

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank the Rapp family for taking care of me while I have been here this year.

 

Surfer of the Week

BENJAMIN BRANTELL

Contest / Result:

1ST PLACE - HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY MENS

2023 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS - HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER

FIRST CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE FOR BEN!

Age

17

Hometown (City, State):

San Clemente, California 

School and grade:

San Clemenbte High School: 11th grade

Favorite subject:

Fire Technology and History 

Sponsors:

Dark Seas, Rumaner Surfboards, Spy, Creatures of Leisure and Sun Diego Board Shop.

Equipment:

5' 8" Rumaner Surfboards

Coach / Trainer:

n/a

Age you started surfing:

I started when I was 4-years-old at T Street. 

Local surfing spot:

San Clemente Pier, T Street and Lowers.

Local heroes::

The McPhillips Brothers, Benji Severson, Dino Andino, Kolohe Andino, Ian Crane, Archy and Andy Fomenko.

Surf crew:

n/a

Favorite pro surfers::

Andy Irons, Kolohe Andino and Dino Andino.

Hobbies other than surfing:

n/a

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

It would be Andy Irons. 

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

All of the SC boys. 

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation

Dream wave:

Mainland Mexico 

Something people don't know about you:

n/a

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I love doing the NSSA contests because it is where a lot of pro surfers have come from. It;s great to see all of their names. 

Contest playlist:

n/a 

Goals for this season:

To make the top 5 of the WSL Junior Tour and to final at the US Championships. 

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my family, sponsers and all of my boys.

 

Surfer of the Week

DYLAN FRANZMANN

Contest / Result:

Dylan's surfing at the Lane was on another level in the final! Phenomenal performance!

1ST PLACE - COLLEGE MENS

2022/23 College Season finale - Steamer Lane, Santa Cruz, February 18-19

Final heat total 18.17 on wave scores of a perfect 10 and an 8.17. Highest wave score and heat totals of the entire event!

Age

21

Hometown (City, State):

North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii

School and grade:

Point Loma Nazarene University - Freshman

Favorite subject:

Writing

Sponsors:

RVCA, Dragon Alliance, Sunbum, Xcel wetsuits

Equipment:

5”11" Chris Gallagher Hovercraft Low model

Coach / Trainer:

N/A

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing with my dad when I was around 3 years old. We would tandem surf until I got good enough to catch my own waves.

Local surfing spot:

Rocky Point

Local heroes::

I looked up to Kalani David growing up. He was an insane surfer/skater and one of the coolest guys to ever do it. Kalani’s skill and humble attitude made me want to be just like him. Rest in peace Kalani.

Surf crew:

My brother Makana and I go surfing a bunch while we are here in California for school but we have a solid crew of friends at home in Hawaii that love to surf.

Favorite pro surfers::

Kalani David, Parker Coffin and Bruce irons

Hobbies other than surfing:

Snowboarding, sports with friends, anything beach related haha!

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Probably Kalani David. He was one of the best surfers to come out of the North Shore and he was always so nice to everyone out of the water.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My little brother Makana. When I see him get a good barrel or launch a big air it pushes me to do the same.

Fantasy superpower:

Breathe underwater for sure!

Dream wave:

Perfect roll in at Pipe, backside no grab barrel to spit out into the channel.

Something people don't know about you:

I am always down to surf in any conditions, it doesn’t have to be perfect.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Seeing old friends and getting to surf some heats.

Contest playlist:

Any old surf movie playlists.

Goals for this season:

To have fun.

Special people you would like to thank:

My Mom and Dad, all my sponsors and my friends and family.

 

Surfer of the Week

SARA FREYRE

Contest / Result:

1st place - Open Womens 

Southwest Open Event #6 at Huntington Beach Pier on January 28-29.

Sara is the reigning National Open Womens Champion!

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Huntington Beach, California

School and grade:

Huntington Beach High School: 10th grade

Favorite subject:

Math

Sponsors:

Hurley, Jacks Surfboards, Sambazon, Surface Sunscreen, Futures Fins, Prolite, Channel Islands Surfboards, Stickybumps Wax, Sessions West Coast Deli Grill.

Equipment:

CI Pro model, Channel Islands Surfboard.

Coach / Trainer:

My Dad, Coach Verdone, Brett Simpson, and the local community.

Age you started surfing:

I surfed a couple times when I was young, but I really started to get into surfing at age 9.

Local surfing spot:

I surf Huntington Beach Pier mostly everyday, but I also enjoy surfing in Newport Beach and Lower Trestles in San Clemente.

Local heroes::

Brett Simpson is a big standout but there is too many to list, there are so many local heroes from Huntington Beach.

Surf crew:

My little brother Cruz, Bailey Turner, and the rest of the HB crew!

Favorite pro surfers::

John John Florence and Stephanie Gilmore are two of my all time favorite pro surfers.

Hobbies other than surfing:

I skateboard and do jiu jitsu.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

If I could surf like anyone in the world, it would be Stephanie Gilmore. She rips and has the best style!

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My family has pushed my surfing the most. My dad takes me to the beach every single day and coaches me.

Fantasy superpower:

My fantasy superpower would be teleportation so I could go to any surf spot I wanted in the world whenever I wanted.

Dream wave:

A dream wave for me would be with no one out in warm water!

Something people don't know about you:

Something people don’t know about me is that I go to public highschool.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

My favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests is the amazing people and getting to surf fun waves with only three other people out!

Contest playlist:

My contest playlist consists of very upbeat songs that pump me up before my heats.

Goals for this season:

My goals for this season are to progress in surfing, keep up my good grades and travel!

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank God, all my sponsors and my family for supporting me.

 

Surfer of the Week

MAKANA FRANZMANN

Contest / Result:

1st place - College Mens

Highest scoring wave of the event: a 9.93 in the Mens final. 

West Coast College Season Event #3 at Huntington Beach Pier on January 21-22

 

Age

18

Hometown (City, State):

North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii

School and grade:

Point Loma Nazarene University - Freshman

Favorite subject:

Business

Sponsors:

RVCA, Xcel, Dragon, Sunbum, FCS

Equipment:

5'9" Chris Gallagher, Hovercraft

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing at 3-years-old.

Local surfing spot:

Rocky Point

Local heroes::

Kalani David, Mason Ho and John John Florence.

Surf crew:

Dylan, Thatcher, Paumalu and K.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing, AI, Parko and Julian Wilson. 

Hobbies other than surfing:

Skateboarding

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

AI or Ethan Ewing.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother Dylan. 

Fantasy superpower:

Breathing underwater.

Dream wave:

10 foot Pipe barrel. 

Something people don't know about you:

My first name is Lucas but I have always gone by my middle name.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Surfing and hanging with friends. 

Contest playlist:

Lil Baby

Goals for this season:

Get another win with the PLNU team. 

Special people you would like to thank:

Mom and Dad!

 

Surfer of the Week

EELI TIMPERI

Contest / Result:

1st place - Southwest Open Juniors (U16) Event 5 at Seaside Reef on December 2-3.

2nd place - Southwest Open Mens (all ages) Event 5.

Eeli has made 4 of 5 finals in the Open Juniors division in the 22/23 season and has also made 2 finals in Open Mens.

He is currently ranked second in the Open Juniors rankings and fourth in the Open Mens after Event 5.

Age

15

Hometown (City, State):

Encinitas, California

School and grade:

San Dieguito Academy: 10th grade

Favorite subject:

English

Sponsors:

Rip Curl, Kailani Surfboards, FCS, Dragon Alliance and Surf Ride. 

Equipment:

5’5" Kailani Surfboards, Black Mamba round tail

Coach / Trainer:

Taylor Clark

Age you started surfing:

Age 7. I started on my Dad's longboard.

Local surfing spot:

Seaside Reef

Local heroes::

Jake Marshall and Taylor Clark

Surf crew:

Titus Santucci, Lukas McMahon and Kyan Yang

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing, Griffin Colapinto and John John Florence

Hobbies other than surfing:

Working out and hanging with friends.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Ethan Ewing

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My Mom and Dad.

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation, because I would get to surf the most perfect waves all the time.

Dream wave:

J-Bay

Something people don't know about you:

I used to play soccer before surfing but I still really enjoy it and love watching it.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I get to see all of my friends and I am really competitive so it is always a fun time for me!

Contest playlist:

I usually don’t listen to music during a contest but if I were to, it would either be rock or rap.

Goals for this season:

To win the NSSA Regionals and Nationals.

Special people you would like to thank:

My family and friends for always supporting me. As well as my sponsors for all the help.

 

Surfer of the Week

TITUS KAIMANA SANTUCCI

Contest / Result:

1st place - Southwest Open Mens (all ages) Event 5 at Seaside Reef on December 2-3.

Titus also won the SW Open Event 2 at Salt Creek which gives him two wins in the 22/23 season. 

Titus has placed in all five finals so far this season with 2nd place finishes at the Ventura Open Event 1 and Oceanside Open Event 3 and a 3rd place at the Huntington Beach Open Event 4.

He holds a sizable lead in the overall rankings with 3 events remaining on the regular season schedule. 

Age

17

Hometown (City, State):

Encinitas, California 

School and grade:

San Dieguito Academy: 11th grade

Favorite subject:

Computer Programming.

Sponsors:

PsychoTuna, Chris Borst Designs, Xcel, Creatures of Leisure, Spy, Leus and Surfride.

Equipment:

5'7" Chris Borst Designs, Epoxy Model.

Coach / Trainer:

Taylor Clark and John Daniels.

Age you started surfing:

Age 9. I started on an old 6 foot Rusty. My parents took me out to Ponto.

Local surfing spot:

Seaside.

Local heroes::

Taylor Clark, Taylor Knox and Jake Marshall.

Surf crew:

Eeli Timperi, Kyan Yang, Lukas McMahon and Wheeler Hasburgh.

Favorite pro surfers::

Griffin Colapinto, Ethan Ewing and Mason Ho.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Pickle Ball and hanging with friends.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Ethan Ewing.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

The people that have pushed me the most have been all the Seaside Groms and the Original Crew as well.

Fantasy superpower:

Definitely teleportation. I could have infinite surf checks!

Dream wave:

I would love one day to surf Lakey Peak in Indo.

Something people don't know about you:

When I was little I wanted to be a monster truck driver haha.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Going to NSSA contests is like going on a little surf trip with all your good friends. Everyone is surfing waves we wouldn't normally surf and competing in those waves.

Contest playlist:

A lot of punk bands and some old school rap.

Goals for this season:

My biggest goal is to win a National Title.

Special people you would like to thank:

I want to thank my parents and coaches for always supporting me and all of the boys at Seaside for keeping the contests fun!

 

Surfer of the Week

KOLBY KEKOA AIPA

Contest / Result:

Kolby has won three straight events in the Southwest Conference Explorer Season!

1st Place Explorer Juniors (17U) Event 2 at Ponto.

1st Place Explorer Juniors (17U) Event 3 at Huntington Beach Ninth Street.

1sr Place Explorer Juniors (17U) Event 4 at Huntington Beach Ninth Street.

Age

17-years-old.

Hometown (City, State):

Huntington Beach, California

School and grade:

Huntington Beach HIgh School; 12th grade.

Favorite subject:

Surf Class and Math. 

Sponsors:

Aipa Surf, Dakine, HSS - Huntington Surf and Sport, Cobian Footwear, Zevn, Hula Girls Shaved Ice and Naked Viking Surf.

Equipment:

Aipa 5’9” x 18.7” x 2.90” 27.6 L. The Butcher Model.

Coach / Trainer:

My High School Coach - Coach Verdone.

Age you started surfing:

I really got into surfing around the ages of 6 and 7. 

Local surfing spot:

Huntington Beach Pier.

Local heroes::

My grandpa Ben Aipa. 

Surf crew:

Dzaz, Dkook, Jake, Cam, Tanner, Nikoi and Kyle.

Favorite pro surfers::

Andy Irons and Kelly Slater.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Skateboarding, Snowboarding, Fishing and Hacky Sack.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Andy Irons.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My Mom and Dad; and everyone at the HB Pier.

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation.

Dream wave:

Cloudbreak.

Something people don't know about you:

I also like to longboard. 

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Surfing with and against my friends.

Contest playlist:

Biggie Smalls.

Goals for this season:

I would like to travel. 

Special people you would like to thank:

My Mom, Dad and Coach Verdone.

 

Surfer of the Week

MADDIE STORRER

Contest / Result:

Northwest Conference Open Womens division sweep in events 3 & 4!

1st Place Open Womens (all ages) event 3 at Steamer Lane on November 5th.

1st place Open Womens (all ages) event 4 at Steamer Lane on November 6th. 

2022/23 Northwest Conference Open Womens Season Champion.

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

Santa Cruz, California

School and grade:

Ocean Grove Charter School. 11th grade.

Favorite subject:

English and Spanish

Sponsors:

O'Neill Surf Shop, Sharp Eye Surfboards, Merge4 Socks and Creatures of Leisure.

Equipment:

5'6" Holy Toledo from Sharp Eye Surfboards. 

Coach / Trainer:

Andre Gioranelli and Christian Saenz.

Age you started surfing:

At age 11, I joined the school surf club with my friends and started surfing at Capitola Beach.

Local surfing spot:

Pleasure Point

Local heroes::

Autumn Hays, Ashley Held and Laura Anderson.

Surf crew:

My sisters, Olivia and Emery Storrer and Zoe Chait.

Favorite pro surfers::

Stephanie Gilmore and Filipe Toledo.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Wakeboarding, wakesurfing, snowboarding and I actually like reselling items and used clothes online.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Stephanie Gilmore

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

Zoe Chait has pushed my surfing. She is such an incredible athlete and friend.

Fantasy superpower:

To be able to breathe underwater.

Dream wave:

Keramas

Something people don't know about you:

My younger sister and I share the same birthday date. She was born six years after me on the same date!

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Hanging out with friends and getting to surf great waves with only a few other people out.

Contest playlist:

Chance the Rapper

Goals for this season:

To get my surfing to be at the QS level.

Special people you would like to thank:

I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me and my dreams. I would like to thank my coach Andre for developing my surfing and mindset. And to my coach when I head south; Christian thank you for helping me continue to become a better surfer. And thank you to my sponsors for always supporting me.

 

Surfer of the Week

MAKAI CASTLE

Contest / Result:

WHAT A PERFORMANCE FOR MAKAI! HIS BEST YET!

1st place Boys 14U Division, Southwest Explorer Event #3. Event 3 final heat total 19.50 on wave scores of 9.83 & 9.67.

1st place Boys 14 U Division, Southwest Explorer Event #4.  Event 4 final heat total 15.10 on wave scores of 8.97 & 6.93.

Age

13

Hometown (City, State):

Huntington Beach, California

School and grade:

Cabrillo Point Academy. 7th grade.

Favorite subject:

Math

Sponsors:

Matuse, Huntington Surf and Sport, Carver, Sessions West Coast Deli, Prolite, Bubblegum Surf Wax

Equipment:

5'2" T Patterson, Pato Model

Coach / Trainer:

Christian Saenz- Orange County Surf Coaching

Age you started surfing:

Age 5. My dad took me to River Jetties in Huntington Beach. He pushed me into the first wave and I stood up. I remember even going surfing before preschool some days!

Local surfing spot:

Huntington Beach Pier

Local heroes::

Brett Simpson

Surf crew:

My brother Finn Castle, Nehemiah Willmer, Jesse Rapp and the Meza's.

Favorite pro surfers::

Jack Robinson, Griffin Colapinto and Ethan Ewing.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Video editing and skating on my Carver.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

If I could surf like anyone in the world it would be Griffin Colapinto. I would want to surf like Griffin because he has such sick carves and blow-tails and he also has an insane air game.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My brother Finn, Jesse Rapp and other kids my age who compete in the NSSA's.

Fantasy superpower:

Teleportation

Dream wave:

Snapper Rocks, 4-6 ft barrels.

Something people don't know about you:

Something people don't know about me is that I was so afraid of the ocean from around age 8 to age 10 that I could hardly even walk on the pier. One scary experience in the ocean had me spooked for a while.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

My favorite thing about competing in the NSSA contests is getting to surf against kids who push my level of surfing.

Contest playlist:

Sometimes Rage Against the Machine or Lose Yourself by Eminem.

Goals for this season:

My goals for this season are to win the Nationals and the Southwest Explorer Boys conference title.

Special people you would like to thank:

Thank you to my mom and dad for sitting on the beach and watching my brother and me surf. Huge thanks to my coach Christian Saenz, who has helped my surfing develop so much and to all of my sponsors who believe in me and support me. So thankful.

 

Surfer of the Week

JORDY COLLINS

Contest / Result:

Southwest College Event #1; 1st place College Mens out of a field of 216 competitors!

Age

23

Hometown (City, State):

Vista, California

School and grade:

Westcliff University - Freshman

Favorite subject:

English

Sponsors:

None right now!

Equipment:

5’10" Chris Borst Designs

Coach / Trainer:

Coaches Kyle and Chelsea from Westcliff University

Age you started surfing:

I started surfing around 5 or 6 years old.

Local surfing spot:

Ponto in Carlsbad.

Local heroes::

Josh Kerr, Taylor Knox and Josh Collins.

Surf crew:

PTC

Favorite pro surfers::

John John for sure!

Hobbies other than surfing:

Clubbing

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

It would have to be John John. There is nothing he can’t do.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

A lot of the up and coming kids from San Diego probably push my surfing the most. There is so much talent here it’s insane.

Fantasy superpower:

It would be sick to be able to breath underwater so you wouldn’t have to worry about drowning.

Dream wave:

Cloudbreak

Something people don't know about you:

Probably there are people who don’t know that I just took a two year hiatus from surfing because I was serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Missouri and Kansas.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

I always just love competing in general. It’s fun to push yourself and see what you can do when you put the jersey on. I love how coming back and competing at a NSSA contest just feels like home to me. I have made so many friends here over the years and had such good memories.

Contest playlist:

Maybe some King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard!!

Goals for this season:

Have fun!

Special people you would like to thank:

My parents, everyone at Westcliff University and Jesus Christ!

 

Surfer of the Week

MAKENA BURKE

Contest / Result:

2022/23 West Coast College Season event 1 at Blacks: 1st place College Womens. Won back-to-back season openers. 2022 College Womens National Champion. 2022 College Womens State Champion. 2021/22 West Coast College Season Champion.

Age

19-years-old.

Hometown (City, State):

Ventura, California.

School and grade:

University of California, San Diego Class of 2025

Major: Health w/ a Concentration in Medicine Sciences

Career Goal: Medical professional (still deciding between physician, dentist, or PA)

Favorite subject:

Biology

Sponsors:

O'Neill Women's, Revolution, Betty Belts

Equipment:

5’9 x18 3/16 x 2 1/8 CI Pro

Coach / Trainer:

N/A

Age you started surfing:

Age 6. My first wave ever was on a family vacation to Hawaii.

Local surfing spot:

Black's Beach.

Local heroes::

Sage Erickson

Surf crew:

Maddie, Soleil, Anna

Favorite pro surfers::

Owen Wright, Yago Dora and Ethan Ewing

Hobbies other than surfing:

Running, mountain biking and golfing.

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

I would like to surf like Yago Dora.

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My twin brother.

Fantasy superpower:

Breathe underwater.

Dream wave:

Desert Point. 

Something people don't know about you:

I have a twin brother!

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

Hanging with friends.

Contest playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/

6tHd9XioUK1ltIpYNUyWjp?si=9iB5tb5IRp6ld91SIsFSYA

Goals for this season:

Help the UCSD Surf Team place 1st in a contest.

Special people you would like to thank:

Mom, Dad and grandparents for supporting my education!

 

Surfer of the Week

Luke Tema

Contest / Result:

NSSA Hawaii event #1 at PKs. 1st Open Mens, 1st Explorer Mens, 2nd Explorer Juniors

Age

16

Hometown (City, State):

North Shore, Oahu

School and grade:

Penn Foster, 10th grade

Favorite subject:

PE

Sponsors:

Hurley, HIC, K Tokoro Surfboards, Leus, Sunbum, Dragon Alliance, Nixon, Mokulele Airlines

Equipment:

5’11" Hi•Per Model

Coach / Trainer:

Kid Peligro & Yadin Nicol

Age you started surfing:

4 years old at Suis.

Local surfing spot:

V Land, Pipeline, Suis.

Local heroes::

John John Florence, Seth & Josh Moniz.

Surf crew:

Nalu, Maddix, Keone & Nolan.

Favorite pro surfers::

Ethan Ewing & Griffin Colapinto.

Hobbies other than surfing:

Golf

If you could surf like anyone in the world, who would it be:

Ethan Ewing

Who has pushed your surfing the most:

My Dad

Fantasy superpower:

To breathe underwater.

Dream wave:

Kandui

Something people don't know about you:

I golf a couple of times a week.

Your favorite thing about competing in NSSA contests:

The contest locations & competing with friends.

Contest playlist:

A mix of music, mostly rap & rock.

Goals for this season:

Do well in a QS event, win States & have a good ranking in HSA & NSSA.

Special people you would like to thank:

My family for their support and being at all the contests. 

 

Surfer of the Week

DAVID O'KEEFE AND SARA FREYRE

Contest / Result:

David - 2022 National Open Mens Champion; Sara - 2022 National Open Womens Champion

Age

David: 17; Sara: 15

Hometown (City, State):

David: Newport Beach, Ca; Sara: Huntington Beach, Ca

School and grade:

David: Futures Academy 12th grade; Sara: Huntington Beach High School 9th grade

Sponsors:

David: Body Glove, Etnies, Surfside Sports, LXD Eyewear, Stamps Surfboards. Sara: Hurley, Jacks Surfboards, Surface Sunscreen, Sambazon, Channel Islands Surfboards, Sticky Bumps, Future Fins, Prolite

Equipment:

David: Stamps Surfboards Sara: Channel Islands Surfboards

 


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