Women In the Waves
Women only board rider clubs are still not all that common, despite a huge increase in both the numbers of women taking up surfing and the profiles of the top women surfers. Even less common are women only clubs that have been running for 21 years. Women in the Waves can make that claim.
2007 is the 21 st birthday year for the Central Coast’s Women in the Waves club for female board riders. Started in 1986 at Avoca, NSW, by 3 young women seeking company, fun and support when they went surfing, the club has operated continuously at the same beach since that time.
Following a successful 10th birthday party and reunion at Copacabana in 1996 and 15th at Shelley Beach in 2001, the club is celebrating its birthday this year with an increased program of activities. Traditionally club members have competed on the morning of the first Sunday of each month, from February to November inclusive, in front of the huge pine trees which grow between Avoca SLSC and Shark Tower at Avoca Beach. Find us under the blue tent with a “Women in the Waves” banner.
The recent membership has ranged in age from 6 years to over 60, with short and longboards being ridden. The skill range is from beginners to members who graduate to national titleholders, the World Championship Tour and World Masters (eg Sandra English). Two former WIW members are Amee Donohoe and Rebecca Woods, both professional surfers with years of competition at the highest levels and a continuing affection for their old club. Other members compete regularly at the increasing number of major girls’ events around the state, with respectable results.
Among new activities in 2007 is a beginners’ group of mature women – the generation who missed out. The WOW Girls (Wave of Wisdom) project was conceived and is being delivered by founding WIW member, Yvonne Lamont. From January to March, nine classes have been organised at 3 venues on weekend and weekdays, with a huge response. Over 60 women from 15 to 62 are currently enjoying their introduction or re-introduction to surfing. Their smiles and laughter say it all! This group also balances out the bulk of the previous years’ members, who are generally under 18 with a strong competitive edge in the club’s 4 divisions (A, B, C and Malibu).
Other new events planned during this anniversary year will be club trips away: to Sandbar for surfing in April and to the NSW snowfields in August. “Just have a go” must be our unofficial motto. DVD sessions showing members and professional women surfers will also run during winter. On contest days, a new coaching program will operate in conjunction with the main surf schools in the region, using video replays to help members understand how they can improve their surfing.
Looking to get involved? Contact the club on 0409329416 or by email at sandy@surfcoaching.com.au.