Professional Surfer Resume Examples & Templates
6 free customizable and printable Professional Surfer samples and templates for 2026. Unlock unlimited access to our AI resume builder for just $9/month and elevate your job applications effortlessly. Generating your first resume is free.
Professional Surfer Resume Examples and Templates
Amateur Surfer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong community engagement
The resume highlights Michael's commitment to ocean conservation through organizing beach clean-up events. This involvement demonstrates a strong connection to the surfing community, which is vital for a Professional Surfer role.
Relevant experience in competitions
Michael's participation in local surfing competitions, achieving top 10 finishes, showcases his competitive spirit and skills. This directly aligns with the expectations for a Professional Surfer, emphasizing performance in events.
Clear educational background
The degree in Environmental Studies adds value by showcasing knowledge of marine conservation. This understanding is crucial for a Professional Surfer, as it connects surfing with environmental awareness.
Diverse skill set
The skills section effectively lists key competencies like Surfing Techniques and Ocean Safety. These are essential for a Professional Surfer, enhancing Michael's suitability for the role.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Vague job title
The title 'Amateur Surfer' may not resonate with the Professional Surfer role. Consider using a more impactful title, like 'Competitive Surfer' or 'Surf Advocate', to better reflect the desired position.
Lacks quantifiable achievements
While top 10 finishes are mentioned, adding specific numbers (e.g., 'finished 3rd in the XYZ competition') would strengthen the impact. Quantifying achievements can make the resume more compelling for a Professional Surfer.
Limited professional experience
The work experience primarily focuses on amateur events. Gaining more competitive experience or endorsements would enhance credibility. Consider pursuing more high-profile competitions to boost the resume.
Missing a targeted summary statement
The introduction is a bit generic. A focused summary emphasizing Michael's goals as a Professional Surfer and what he brings to the table would provide a stronger opening to the resume.
Junior Professional Surfer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong competitive results and progression
You show clear competitive progress with top-8 finishes in six events and advancement to two QS qualifying rounds. That record proves performance growth and competitiveness. Recruiters for a junior pro role will see you compete reliably at national and emerging international levels.
Clear sponsor representation and activation experience
You list measurable sponsor outcomes like 150k impressions and a 30% boost in local event attendance. You also represented Red Bull at public events. Those points show you can promote brands and deliver activation value to sponsors.
Relevant cross-functional skills and certifications
Your skills combine surf strategy, ocean safety certification, coaching, and content creation. You also hold a B.Sc. in sports science and a surf coaching certificate. That mix supports both performance and community outreach duties in the role.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Summary could be tighter and role-focused
Your intro lists many strengths but reads broad. Tighten it to two short sentences that state your competitive level and what you want from the junior pro role. Mention readiness to travel and represent sponsors to match the job description.
Add more quantifiable competition metrics
You give top finishes and event counts, but you lack win rates and ranking changes. Add exact rankings, win-loss heat records, or points earned. Those numbers help selectors compare you to other junior pros quickly.
Boost ATS keywords for this role
Your skills list reads well but misses some likely keywords like 'QS events', 'contest strategy', and 'sponsorship deliverables'. Sprinkle those terms across experience bullets and the summary to improve matches with recruiter searches.
Professional Surfer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong competitive experience
The resume highlights over 50 competitions with 15 podium finishes. This showcases the candidate's competitive edge, which is essential for a Professional Surfer role, demonstrating both skill and dedication to the sport.
Effective coaching background
With experience as a surf coach, the candidate developed training programs and organized surf trips. This hands-on experience in coaching aligns well with the responsibilities of promoting and teaching surfing skills, a key aspect of the Professional Surfer role.
Clear passion for ocean conservation
The resume emphasizes the candidate's commitment to environmental advocacy and ocean safety. This focus not only enhances personal branding but also resonates with the values of the surfing community and potential sponsors.
Relevant skills listed
The skills section includes important areas like Coaching, Ocean Safety, and Brand Promotion. These are directly relevant to the Professional Surfer role, making it clear that the candidate has the necessary expertise.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Vague job descriptions
While the experiences are relevant, they could benefit from more specific achievements or metrics. For instance, mentioning how many participants improved their skills would strengthen the impact of the coaching role.
Missing a summary statement
The resume lacks a concise summary statement that ties together the candidate's experience and goals. A powerful summary could emphasize the candidate's unique value and aspirations in the surfing world.
Limited quantification in coaching role
The coaching experience could be more compelling with quantifiable results, such as the number of surfers trained or success rates of participants. This would provide clearer evidence of effectiveness in the role.
No mention of networking or community involvement
Including details about involvement in surf communities or networks could enhance the candidate's profile. Networking is crucial in the surfing industry for sponsorships and collaborations.
Senior Professional Surfer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong competitive background
Your ranking in the top 10 of the World Surf League for three consecutive years showcases your competitive edge. This is a significant achievement for a Professional Surfer, demonstrating both skill and dedication.
Effective use of quantifiable results
You effectively highlight your impact with quantifiable results, like increasing brand visibility by 50%. This not only reflects your marketing skills but also aligns well with the expectations for a Professional Surfer.
Relevant skills listed
Your skills section includes critical areas such as 'Brand Management' and 'Social Media Marketing'. These are essential for a Professional Surfer looking to attract sponsorships and engage with audiences.
Community involvement
Conducting over 20 surfing clinics for youth shows your commitment to community engagement. This aspect is vital in building a positive image as a Professional Surfer and can enhance your appeal to sponsors.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks a compelling summary statement
Your introduction is strong but could be more engaging. Consider adding a personal touch or specific goals that resonate with potential sponsors or fans in the Professional Surfer community.
Limited detail on media appearances
You mention media appearances but don’t elaborate. Adding specific examples or metrics from these appearances could enhance your profile as a Professional Surfer and attract more attention from sponsors.
No certifications or awards listed
If you have any certifications or awards related to surfing or coaching, include them. This can add credibility and strengthen your resume for a Professional Surfer role.
Work experience section could be more detailed
Your work experience is solid, but including more specifics about your roles or challenges you overcame would paint a clearer picture of your journey as a Professional Surfer.
Surfing Coach Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong impact in experience section
The resume includes quantifiable results, like a 95% satisfaction rate and a 40% increase in student enrollment. These metrics highlight Laura's effectiveness as a surfing coach, which is essential for a professional surfer role.
Relevant skills listed
Laura's skills such as 'Surf Coaching' and 'Ocean Safety' align well with the demands of a professional surfer. This shows she possesses both the practical and safety skills required in the surfing industry.
Compelling introduction
The introduction succinctly presents Laura as a passionate and experienced surfing coach. It establishes her commitment to safety and environmental awareness, which are important qualities for a professional surfer.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Limited use of industry keywords
While the skills section is good, including more specific surfing terminology or certifications (like lifeguard training) would enhance ATS compatibility and show deeper expertise relevant to a professional surfer role.
Lacks a clear summary of achievements
The resume could benefit from a summary that highlights key achievements in surfing competitions or personal accomplishments. This would provide a clearer picture of Laura's qualifications for a professional surfer role.
Experience could be more detailed
While the experience is strong, adding more details about specific techniques taught or challenges overcome would further demonstrate Laura's expertise and adaptability in diverse surfing conditions.
Surfing Ambassador Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong community engagement experience
Your experience in organizing community surfing events shows your ability to connect with local surfers and promote the sport. Attracting over 500 participants highlights your effectiveness in fostering community involvement, which is crucial for a Professional Surfer.
Quantifiable achievements in marketing
Your work with brands demonstrates a solid understanding of marketing strategies. Increasing brand visibility by 30% through social media campaigns showcases your impact and aligns well with the promotional aspects of a Professional Surfer's role.
Relevant educational background
Your Bachelor of Arts in Communication is a great fit for a Professional Surfer. It indicates that you have the skills necessary for media relations and community engagement, which are important for promoting your surfing brand.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Missing specific surfing achievements
While you mention organizing events and clinics, adding specific surfing achievements or competitions you've participated in would enhance your credibility as a Professional Surfer. Highlighting awards or notable performances can make your profile stronger.
Skills section could be more targeted
Your skills section lists valuable competencies, but consider including more surf-specific skills or certifications. Adding keywords like 'competitive surfing' or 'surf coaching' may improve your alignment with the Professional Surfer role.
Intro could be more focused
Your introduction is engaging but could be tighter. Focus on your unique selling points as a surfer and how they relate to the Professional Surfer title. This will make a more compelling first impression.
1. How to write a Professional Surfer resume
Finding your way into the professional surfing scene can be tough, especially when you see so many talented surfers vying for the same sponsorships. How can you make your resume grab attention? Hiring managers want to see your specific achievements, like competition placements and impact on brand visibility. However, many surfers often get caught up in generic statements rather than showcasing their unique skills and experiences.
This guide will help you craft a resume that emphasizes your standout moments in the water and your dedication to the sport. You'll learn to turn simple phrases into compelling narratives, such as transforming "Competed in events" into "Achieved 1st place in the 2023 World Surf League Championship." We'll focus on key sections like your work experience and skills. By the end, you'll have a resume that clearly reflects your surfing journey and potential.
Use the right format for a Professional Surfer resume
When crafting a resume for a Professional Surfer, the best format is typically chronological. This format helps highlight your progression and achievements in surfing over time. However, if you have gaps in your career or are transitioning from another field, a combination or functional format could work better. It's crucial to keep your resume ATS-friendly, using clear sections and avoiding complex graphics or tables.
Here’s a quick overview of formats:
- Chronological: Best for showcasing steady career progression and consistent participation in competitions.
- Functional: Focuses on skills, ideal for those with gaps or changing careers.
- Combination: Merges both formats, highlighting skills while listing experiences in order.
Craft an impactful Professional Surfer resume summary
A resume summary is a brief overview of your skills and achievements. For experienced surfers, it should highlight your years of experience, specialization in certain surf styles, key skills, and top achievements. For entry-level surfers or those changing careers, an objective statement outlining your passion for surfing and eagerness to learn would be more appropriate.
Here's a solid formula for a summary: '[Years of experience] + [Specialization] + [Key skills] + [Top achievement]'. This formula helps you convey your value effectively.
Good resume summary example
Professional surfer with over 10 years of experience in competitive surfing, specializing in big wave surfing and performance under extreme conditions. Known for winning the National Surf Championship in 2022 and securing multiple sponsorships.
Entry-level surfer eager to grow skills and compete, with strong dedication to training and a passion for ocean conservation.
Bad resume summary example
Surfer with some experience looking to improve and compete.
Highlight your Professional Surfer work experience
List your work experience in reverse chronological order. Each entry should include your job title, the company name, and the dates you worked there. Use bullet points to describe your accomplishments, starting with strong action verbs. For a Professional Surfer, quantifying your impact—like your competition placements or sponsorship deals—can set you apart.
Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your bullet points. This method helps you show the context and results of your actions clearly.
Good work experience example
Achieved 1st place in the 2023 World Surf League Championship, increasing brand visibility for sponsors by 30% through strategic social media campaigns.
Bad work experience example
Competed in various surfing events and represented sponsors.
Present relevant education for a Professional Surfer
When detailing your education, include the school name, degree, and graduation year if applicable. For recent graduates, you may want to highlight your GPA, relevant coursework, or honors. If you have more experience, keep education less prominent, and consider listing relevant surfing certifications in a dedicated section.
Good education example
Oceanography Degree, University of California
Graduated: 2018
Relevant Coursework: Marine Biology, Wave Dynamics
Bad education example
High School Diploma, Local High School, 2010.
Add essential skills for a Professional Surfer resume
Technical skills for a Professional Surfer resume
Soft skills for a Professional Surfer resume
Include these powerful action words on your Professional Surfer resume
Use these impactful action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities:
Add additional resume sections for a Professional Surfer
Consider adding sections for Projects, Certifications, or Volunteer Experience, which can showcase your dedication and skills. For a Professional Surfer, highlighting any surf-related projects or environmental initiatives can make a strong impression on potential sponsors and employers.
Good example
Project: Surf Clean Initiative
Led a community project focused on ocean cleanup, resulting in the collection of over 2,000 pounds of trash from local beaches in 2022.
Bad example
Volunteered at a local beach cleanup.
2. ATS-optimized resume examples for a Professional Surfer
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools that help employers manage the recruitment process. They scan resumes for keywords and relevant information, often rejecting those that don’t meet specific criteria. For a Professional Surfer, optimizing your resume for ATS is crucial because it increases your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers.
To make your resume ATS-friendly, use standard section titles like 'Experience', 'Education', and 'Skills'. Incorporate keywords from job descriptions related to surfing skills, competitions, sponsorships, and any certifications you hold. Avoid complex formatting, such as tables or images, as these can confuse the ATS. Stick to readable fonts and save your resume in common formats like PDF or .docx.
Some common mistakes include using synonyms instead of exact keywords found in job postings. Also, avoid relying on headers or footers that the ATS might not read correctly. Missing critical keywords related to your surfing achievements or skills can cost you an opportunity.
ATS-compatible example
Skills: Competition Surfing, Wave Forecasting, Sponsorship Management, Ocean Safety, Surf Coaching
Why this works: This skills section uses relevant keywords that ATS looks for in a Professional Surfer role, making it easier for the system to recognize the applicant's qualifications.
ATS-incompatible example
Surfing Expertise: Great at riding waves and understanding the ocean.
Why this fails: This section uses vague language and lacks specific keywords. An ATS may not recognize 'riding waves' or 'understanding the ocean' as relevant skills compared to more standard terms.
3. How to format and design a Professional Surfer resume
When crafting your resume for a professional surfer role, consider choosing a clean and straightforward template. A reverse-chronological layout works best here, as it allows you to highlight your surfing achievements and competitions in a clear manner. This layout is not only easy to read but also friendly for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Keep your resume to one page if you're at the entry level, but if you've been in the sport for years with plenty of wins and sponsorships, two pages can be appropriate. Just remember to keep it concise and focused on your most impressive accomplishments.
For font choice, stick with professional options like Arial or Calibri in 10-12pt size for body text and 14-16pt for headers. Ensure there's enough white space around sections to avoid a cluttered look. Simple formatting beats flashy designs since both recruiters and ATS prefer clarity over creativity.
Common mistakes to avoid include using overly complex templates that confuse ATS, excessive colors, and non-standard fonts. Also, make sure you have clear section headings so recruiters can easily navigate your resume.
Well formatted example
Heath Bergnaum
Professional Surfer
Competitions: World Surf League, X Games
Achievements: 1st Place at the Hawaii Pro 2022
Sponsorships: Brand A, Brand B
This format uses clear headings, a professional font, and lists achievements in a way that’s easy to read. It emphasizes relevant experiences without unnecessary clutter.
Poorly formatted example
Lura Turner
Surfing Experience: Competed in various events, sponsored by some brands, went to beach a lot. Enjoys surfing.
This example lacks clear structure and does not highlight specific achievements or competitions. It may not catch the eye of a recruiter or ATS, making it harder to showcase Lura's skills.
4. Cover letter for a Professional Surfer
Writing a tailored cover letter for a Professional Surfer role is essential. It complements your resume by showing your passion for surfing and your dedication to the sport. A well-crafted letter helps you stand out and connect with potential sponsors or teams.
Start with a header that includes your contact information, the date, and the company's details. In your opening paragraph, clearly state that you’re applying for the Professional Surfer position. Share your enthusiasm for the sport and the specific company, and mention any notable achievements or competitions you’ve participated in.
In the body paragraphs, connect your experience with the requirements of the role. Highlight your surfing accomplishments, such as competition results or sponsorships. Emphasize your technical skills, like wave reading and board control, and soft skills like teamwork and resilience. Tailor your content to the company and include keywords from their job description.
- Include specific projects or competitions you excelled in.
- Share quantifiable achievements, like rankings or titles.
- Show how your values align with the company's mission.
Conclude your letter by reiterating your interest in the Professional Surfer role. Express confidence in your ability to contribute to the team. Include a call to action, such as requesting a meeting or a chance to discuss your application further. Thank the reader for their time and consideration.
Keep a professional yet enthusiastic tone throughout. Customize each letter to avoid sounding generic and increase your chances of making a great impression.
Sample a Professional Surfer cover letter
Dear Surf Team,
I am excited to apply for the Professional Surfer position at Wave Riders Inc. I have been passionate about surfing since I was a child and have competed in numerous national and international competitions. My recent win at the National Surfing Championship has motivated me to pursue this opportunity with your esteemed brand.
Throughout my surfing career, I have consistently ranked in the top 10 in various competitions. My ability to read waves and execute complex maneuvers has set me apart from my peers. In addition to my technical skills, I thrive in team settings, often collaborating with fellow surfers to enhance our performances. I believe my values align perfectly with Wave Riders Inc., as I aim to inspire others to embrace the surf culture.
I am confident that my dedication and experience make me a strong candidate for this role. I would love the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to Wave Riders Inc. I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to the possibility of working together.
Sincerely,
Jordan Taylor
5. Mistakes to avoid when writing a Professional Surfer resume
Creating a strong resume as a professional surfer is key to landing sponsorships and opportunities. You want to show your skills and experience clearly. Avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference.
Attention to detail really matters. Make sure to present your accomplishments in a way that stands out to sponsors and event organizers.
Don't be vague about your achievements
Mistake Example: "Participated in various surfing competitions."
Correction: Be specific about your accomplishments. Instead, write: "Placed in the top 5 at the 2023 World Surf League event in Hawaii."
Generic applications can hurt your chances
Mistake Example: "I'm a skilled surfer looking for sponsorships."
Correction: Tailor your resume for each opportunity. For instance, say: "I'm seeking sponsorship from brands focused on ocean conservation, aligning my surfing with my passion for environmental advocacy."
Typos and grammar mistakes can undermine your professionalism
Mistake Example: "I surfed in many countrys and won several awards."
Correction: Proofread your resume. Correct it to: "I surfed in many countries and won several prestigious awards, including the 2022 National Surfing Championship."
Overstating your skills can backfire
Mistake Example: "I'm the best surfer in my region and can out-perform anyone."
Correction: Be honest about your skills. Instead, say: "I consistently rank among the top surfers in my region, earning recognition for my technique and style."
Avoid irrelevant information
Mistake Example: "I have experience in customer service and retail jobs."
Correction: Focus on relevant experiences. You could write: "Worked as a surf instructor, teaching over 100 students and promoting safe surfing practices."
6. FAQs about Professional Surfer resumes
Creating a resume as a Professional Surfer can be unique and exciting. You'll want to emphasize your experiences, competitions, and skills that set you apart in the surfing world.
What skills should I highlight on my Professional Surfer resume?
What skills should I highlight on my Professional Surfer resume?
Focus on skills like wave reading, endurance, and agility. Also, mention any coaching, sponsorship experience, and competition results.
What format is best for a Professional Surfer resume?
What format is best for a Professional Surfer resume?
Use a clean, simple format. Highlight your surfing achievements at the top, followed by experience and skills. A chronological layout works well.
How long should my Professional Surfer resume be?
How long should my Professional Surfer resume be?
Keep it to one page. List your most important achievements and experiences concisely.
How can I showcase my surfing projects or media appearances?
How can I showcase my surfing projects or media appearances?
Create a section for media features or sponsorships. Include links to videos or articles showcasing your surfing.
What if I have gaps in my surfing career?
What if I have gaps in my surfing career?
Be honest about your gaps. You can mention training, travel, or personal projects related to surfing during those times.
Pro Tips
Include Your Competition Results
List your best competition finishes. This shows your skill level and commitment to the sport.
Highlight Any Sponsorship Deals
If you've worked with brands, mention them. This shows credibility and recognition in the surfing community.
Focus on Unique Experiences
Share any unique surfing experiences, like traveling to different surf spots or participating in charity events. These can set you apart.
7. Key takeaways for an outstanding Professional Surfer resume
Writing a strong resume for a Professional Surfer can really set you apart in this competitive field. Here are some key takeaways to consider:
- Keep your resume format clean and professional. Make sure it's easy to read and ATS-friendly.
- Tailor your skills and experiences to highlight your surfing accomplishments, competitions, and sponsorships relevant to the role.
- Use strong action verbs like 'competed', 'achieved', and 'demonstrated' while quantifying your achievements, such as the number of competitions entered or titles won.
- Incorporate keywords from job descriptions naturally to optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems.
Remember, using resume building tools or templates can help you create a standout presentation of your surfing journey. Good luck with your job search!
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