ESA SNC’s Christian “Meep” Castiglione during his first Haleiwa session. Photo: Jack Weyer
The Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) All-Stars arrived on the North Shore of Oahu to begin their three-week training trip at some of the world’s most iconic waves with the best professional coaches. The guys arrived on Sunday for their 10-day session and will be followed by a group of gals.
“It’s a training program unlike any other,” said ESA executive director Michelle Sommers. “We offer ESA All-Stars the opportunity of a lifetime to stay at the world-famous Rip Curl house at Off the Wall and work with top coaches including Rainos Hayes, Kalani Chapman, Chris Gallagher, Josh Moniz and others.”
Coaching sessions with Rainos Hayes started off the trip on Monday and Tuesday with multiple surf sessions as different surf spots while the swell came up.
“It’s been incredible listening to Rainos Hayes while he helps our All-Stars navigate through some very difficult line-ups out there,” said ESA All-Star coach Jason Motes. “This guy is amazing!”
View of Backdoor & Pipeline from the All-Star’s deck. Photo: Michelle Sommers
Hayes travels the world with professional surfers who compete on the World Surf League’s Championship Tour. When he heard that surfing legend Tamayo Perry worked with the All-Stars each year, he didn’t hesitate to step in to give these kids an experience they will never forget.
This annual trip is invite-only for All-Stars who are proud to represent the ESA and have proven that they want to learn from the best. For many here this year, it is their first time traveling to Hawaii.
The house where the team members are staying is an oceanfront house at Off the Wall, which is next to Pipeline and Backdoor. Rip Curl houses its team members at this house when events are going on. As with many North Shore houses that are located on the seven-mile-miracle stretch of waves, it’s nearly impossible to rent one unless you are invited.
Along with several surprise visits from pros and others in the surf industry, the All-Stars will also learn about traveling, respecting the local culture and community, surf media and various others life lessons. A half day of volunteerism is also being planned.
Only two days here and Virginia Beach’s Lliam Maloney said, “this is the best trip of my life!”
“It’s so awesome to surf all the waves that we have only ever seen on video,” said New Jersey’s Noah Desimone.
Wrightsville Beach’s Christian “Meeps” Castiglione summed it up by simply stating, “Hawaii is heavy!”
Be sure to follow ESA’s social media over the next three weeks for lots of Hawaii updates!
ESA’s Outer Banks All-Star Thomas Meekins surfing behind the house. Photo: Jack Weyer