Sharing the stoke is a passion for many surfers, and the idea of turning that passion into a surf school or instructional opportunity is a common one. But what does it actually capture to make that dream a reality? Veteran surfer and matriarch of the surf community, Dibi Fletcher, addresses this question and others in her latest advice column, offering a realistic look at the challenges and rewards of teaching the sport she loves.
From navigating permits and insurance to defining a target audience and maintaining safety standards, Fletcher lays out the groundwork for those considering a career in surf instruction. She also explores alternative paths, such as working with established resorts or offering personalized coaching, providing a range of options for aspiring surf educators. Beyond surf schools, Fletcher also tackles questions about writing a book based on North Shore experiences, assessing the value of vintage surfboards, and appraising a collection of Surfer Magazine issues.
Launching a Surf School: What’s Involved?
For those envisioning a full-fledged surf school, Fletcher emphasizes the significant investment required. “If you’re thinking about a surf school that would require obtaining the necessary certifications, local and municipal permits for beach access, investing in equipment and liability insurance,” she explains. Defining a clear target audience is also crucial, as is establishing a robust safety plan. Fletcher recommends maintaining a 1:5 instructor-to-student ratio to ensure adequate supervision and personalized attention. A strong online booking presence is also essential in today’s market.
Building a successful surf school isn’t just about the logistics, however. Fletcher highlights the importance of strong community relationships and the potential for collaboration with charities dedicated to sharing the surfing experience. “This would take some investment capital, time and strong working relationships in the community, but you’d be building something to last and the opportunity to collaborate with charities who are doing a fantastic job sharing the surfing experience,” she notes.
Alternative Paths to Surf Instruction
Not everyone is ready to commit to the full-scale operation of a surf school. Fletcher points out viable alternatives, such as seeking employment with resorts that offer surf lessons. This provides a less permanent option with established infrastructure and support. Another avenue is one-on-one coaching, which often requires a pre-existing reputation within the professional surfing world.
“There’s also working for a resort that offers surf lessons if you prefer something less permanent or coaching on a one-on-one basis which usually depends on having built a solid reputation in professional surfing that you’re able to share with potential clients,” Fletcher advises. She stresses the importance of thorough research and a well-defined plan tailored to individual long-term goals.
Turning Experiences into Stories & Valuing Surf History
Fletcher also addressed questions about preserving and sharing surf culture. One correspondent inquired about writing a book based on experiences on the North Shore. Fletcher acknowledged the challenge of crafting a compelling narrative, emphasizing the importance of dedication and revision. “Writing like everything else in the novel world of social media seems so easy, the craft that makes the written word a structure that has created the greatest literature…is not easy, it’s work,” she stated. She encouraged aspiring authors to read widely, seek honest feedback, and be prepared to invest time and resources into the project.
The value of vintage surf memorabilia was also a topic of discussion. Regarding a Herbie Fletcher surfboard from the 1980s, Fletcher cautioned against inflated expectations. “Herb made a lot of production boards that were sold during the ‘80s and so the value of many that can be purchased online is nominal,” she explained. However, boards ridden by Fletcher himself hold significant collector value, though discovering one “undiscovered” is rare. Similarly, a large collection of Surfer Magazine issues could be appraised by experts at the Surf Heritage and Culture Center, which works with appraisers familiar with surf memorabilia.
Fletcher’s advice emphasizes a blend of practicality, passion, and respect for the history and community of surfing. As the sport continues to grow, the need for qualified instructors and dedicated preservationists will only increase, offering opportunities for those willing to put in the work.
What questions do you have for Dibi Fletcher? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going.
