‘The sea can test you, but it never judges you. When life gets stormy, the sea brings you calm, no matter what the conditions.’

To celebrate International Surfing Day, we asked The Wave Project team what surfing and Surf Therapy means to them.

Happy International Surfing Day! Celebrated annually on the third Saturday of June, we’re marking the occasion with a look at what surfing means to the team here at The Wave Project. First up is David, our awesome Project Coordinator in Dorset.

‘Surfing has been a huge part of my life since I started 38 years ago. It’s great exercise, great community and great for well-being.’

David continues with a wonderful analogy: ‘Life can be stormy and calm, as can the sea. The sea can test you, but it never judges you. When life gets stormy, the sea brings you calm, no matter what the conditions.’

The surf also brings joy to David on a personal level: ‘It brings a smile to my face and to those I meet in the sea.’

‘Surfing is such a joy!’

Jaz, our wonderful Project Coordinator in North Devon, described her feelings on getting in the sea: ‘Surfing is such a joy. It’s a lovely way to connect with this beautiful bit of coastline. It’s a great way to find a bit of space and a sense of calm in my brain and also for my body.’

She continues: ‘Myself and my volunteer team know first-hand how good it can be for us to keep getting in the water and to enjoy all the benefits of being in blue spaces. But we know that there are challenges and barriers in the way for some people.’

Jaz describes the benefits of Surf Therapy at The Wave Project for the young people we support: ‘Our amazing Surf Therapy sessions make it safe, fun and accessible for all young people to come and enjoy the ocean.’

But we need your help. ‘We want as many young people as possible to be able to come and enjoy learning, to build their confidence, make new friends and to leave our sessions feeling better about themselves. And your support can really help us do that.’

Make a difference this International Surfing Day and donate to The Wave Project.