Launch of Surfing Australia’s new world-class High Performance Academy

CASUARINA, NSW (Monday, 17 October 2022): Surfing Australia has launched a new world-class High Performance Academy for high school students to chase their surfing dreams.

The 12-month program combines year-round performance coaching for boys and girls in years 7 to 12 who are currently competing at a regional or higher level and aspiring to become a professional surfer.

Academy athletes and coaches will have full access to the state-of- the-art training facilities at the Hyundai Surfing Australia High Performance Centre, which is endorsed by the Australian Olympic Committee.

A range of performance services from sport psychology to athlete wellbeing, and physiotherapy are also part of the elite program.

Academy Head Coach, Bede Durbidge, said: “I’m really excited about the prospect of this new surfing Academy and the potential it can have for future young rising stars. Nothing like this has been offered before with access to the world’s best surfing facility. They’ll get the opportunity to train at the HPC alongside the world’s best surfers. I can’t wait to get back to fulfilling my passion to supporting kids to achieve their dreams.”

The Academy has partnered with Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School as its official school-based education provider.

Academy athletes will attend Lindisfarne on a full-time basis with minimal disruption to the normal curriculum, ensuring they receive the highest quality education at a world leading school.

Chris Mater, Surfing Australia CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to launch Surfing Australia’s new Academy for up-and-coming athletes. As well as giving athletes a new approach to making significant performance gains, this program is unlike any in the sport with a priority on an excellent education. It is a great addition to the already outstanding programs offered at the Hyundai Surfing Australia High Performance Centre.”

Applications are now open.

MORE DETAILS:

Academy coaches: Bede Durbidge (Head Coach), James Woods, Michael O’Rafferty, Maddison Phillips and Jared de Thierry.

Who can apply? Australian surfers in high school in 2023 who have competed in accredited events & are ranked on the Surfing Australia Surfing Australia National Rankings.

All applications must be submitted online at the Surfing Australia website prior to November the 11th, 2022.

Applications must be accompanied by a written submission, copies of recent school report cards and a video edit of the applicants surfing.

Academy fees are $12,000 per annum.

Once the application window has closed, Surfing Australia will advise on the total number of academy athletes and grouping of ages and ability levels.