Rhode Island's Soul & Santa Clara's Surf Club: Community Waves
There’s something special about the surf communities that pop up along the coasts of the US. They’re not just about catching waves; they’s about the people, the stories, and the shared stoke. This week, we’ve got two tales that perfectly capture that spirit: one from the resilient surfers of South County, Rhode Island, and another from the eager beginners at Santa Clara University.
First up, let’s talk about the Rhode Island surf scene. In the latest episode of Hometown Hype, filmmaker TJ Trhan dives into what makes South County unique. As Trhan describes it, Rhode Island has two distinct surf vibes: Newport with its shortboard focus and South County, a haven for longboards and alternative craft. What sets South County apart is the people—‘salt of the earth’ types who endure brutal winters and then welcome everyone with open arms when summer rolls around. You can catch the premiere of the film at The Ocean Mist in South Kingstown on November 6th. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves surf culture and the power of community.
Meanwhile, down in California, the Santa Clara University Surf Club is making waves of a different kind. On October 18th, they hosted their second beginner surf session at Private’s Beach in Santa Cruz. With boards and wetsuits provided, eager students like Arianna Borhan and Ethan Rogers got their first taste of surfing. The club’s executive team, including President Ella Gilbert and Co-President Robert Wang, were right there in the water, pushing the newbies into waves. It’s heartwarming to see the next generation of surfers getting hooked, especially when sessions like this sell out in under a second. The club’s Instagram and GroupMe were buzzing with interest, proving that the surf stoke is alive and well on campus.
These two stories, from opposite ends of the country, show what surfing is all about: the connections we make and the joy we find in the water. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, the surf community has a place for you.