The following are real-life quotes and accounts from prior Surf Coach USA trainees whose experiences have resulted in dramatic athletic and motivational improvements. These surfers are proud to share their life-changing experiences and newfound perspectives! |
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Midget Smith - Professional Surf Judge
"My name is Midget Smith and I am a professional judge. Having head judged for the NSSA, ISA and ASP for 20 some odd years I believe I am very qualified to give you my opinion on Sean Mattison.
First having met Sean in the early '90's when he moved to California to compete in the Bud Tour series it became readily apparent that, on a talent level, he was an outstanding addition to the Pro Tour. He differed from other surfers also by having a polite, respectful manner and a clean cut appearance. As the head judge then I had occasion to deal with many surfers in stressful situations, after all we were affecting the outcome of their careers. |
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| Sean always presented himself in a calm, rational manner. At times he was helping a fellow competitor not just looking out for himself. I have the highest regard for him as a true, professional surfer. This background gives him unique qualifications to steer young surfers in competing, and career management. This has also carried over to his teaching and coaching. Witness him on those cold mornings at Oceanside harbor with students, not just coaching but doing so in a supportive, positive way. Correcting their techniques and at the same time pointing out what they are doing right. With people such as Sean getting involved in coaching, I can only be encouraged about the future of surfing. " |
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Joey Buran - Pipe Masters Champion
"I have known Sean Mattison for almost twenty years and I consider him to be a close friend. Throughout this time I have continually been impressed by his surfing, ocean knowledge, and expertise in the surf industry. Sean is more than a former successful pro surfer; he is a waterman with a tremendous wealth of knowledge on the many issues related to the sport of surfing.
In recent years I have seen first hand Sean's progression from being a local surf instructor/coach in the North San Diego County area to his ascent of becoming a coach for the US National Surf Team. I believe that Sean's role as a surf instructor/coach has given him a great outlet and opportunity to pour his surf knowledge into others. I am confident that he will continue to grow in his skills as a surf instructor/coach as he now begins to dedicate more time and energy to this pursuit. |
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| Beyond his surfing career and his role as a surf instructor/coach, I have observed Sean to be a man of faith, family, integrity with a strong work ethic. It is my conviction that these positive qualities are the things that have made him so successful in all that he has done. I am sure that those who work with him will benefit not only from his knowledge of surfing and the ocean itself, but also gain additional insights to the bigger issues of life that can help set them on a course for success and personal fulfillment. I give my fullest endorsement on behalf of Sean Mattison with full confidence that he will continue to be a benefit to all those who choose to learn from and work with him. " |
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Che Stang - WQS Competitor
"Sean's been a great coach in the way he helps you to read waves and your wave selection. He helps with your surfing endurance and what to work on with your fitness and health. Sean has given me great advice on critiquing my surfing; with the positioning of my arms and body in the way you set up for turns and overall maneuvers. He definitely has been a strong influence on helping me progress in surfing to the level I am at today. " |
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 Photo by: Rob Keaton
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Gabe Garcia - Amatuer Competitor
"Sean is a really good coach! He really inspired me to become a better surfer. He knows so much about surfing and how to best surf a wave. He is super good at teaching people how to become a better surfer. He really helped me to reach the level I am at now. " |
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 Photo by: Rob Keaton
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Heather Jordan - Amatuer Competitor
"Dear Sean, I just wanted to say thank you for everything. I really appreciate everything you've helped me with and for believing in me. I really would like to continue coaching with you, that would be awesome! I feel like I've progressed the most in this year, and learning plus watching your surfing has helped immensely. Thank you so much!" |
