A special post for a special student!
@Matt reached out through the Primal App after seeing a few of our posts and decided to join our Beginner Surf Camp in mid-April here in Las Flores 🌊
Here’s what he said in his first message:
“I’m a beginner yeah. I did one lesson a few years ago but that’s it. I do have a ton of snowboard experience so I think I’ll pick it up somewhat quickly.”
Well... here’s his first wave ever in El Salvador — and his last two waves, one month later. The footage speaks for itself. 🎥👇
So, how did Matthew improve so fast?
I’ve got a few good theories:
- Snowboard skills translate ! balance, edge control, body awareness… and he is a skilled guy, it all helps.
- He took it step by step ! no rushing, no ego :
Started in the whitewash.
Learned wave timing, pop-ups, foot placement, balance.
- Stayed on a foam board to build solid fundamentals.
- Curiosity + Awareness :
always observing the lineup, wave patterns, other surfers. Asking questions. Learning positioning through trial and (a lot of) error.
- He wasn’t afraid to fail.
If you’re not falling, you’re not trying. Simple as that.
- video analysis : break down clips, set new goals and each session he pushed a little more
Yes, sometimes he dropped in on people or ended up in some messy situations, but he always respected the rules and was open to feedback ! and those moments became the best learning opportunities.
So here’s to you, Matthew, for the wipeouts, the wins, and the real progression. You absolutely crushed it, and this is just the beginning of your surfing journey