Surfing, community and connection

ASI Trainer Liam Ahern, manager of Inchydoney Surf School in Cork, Ireland, is featured in a District Magazine article exploring how surfing communities are helping combat rural loneliness in Ireland.

The article looks at how surf clubs and schools along Ireland’s west coast are creating places to belong - bringing together people of different ages, backgrounds and abilities through the shared experience of the ocean.

Liam reflects on how young surfers at Inchydoney often stay after lessons, rinsing wetsuits alongside older surfers and learning far more than wave-reading. Through surfing, they develop communication skills, friendships and confidence - with some of the students he watched grow up now teaching themselves.

He also shares powerful examples of inclusion, from two young girls who met at surf camp and became pen pals, to a special needs student who arrived nervous and, after a few lessons, was confidently taking off on waves.

This is a powerful reminder that surf instruction is about much more than technique. Surf schools can create connection, build confidence, support wellbeing and help people find community in the water.

Read the full article here:

https://districtmagazine.ie/features/in-sligo-surfing-is-combating-rural-loneliness/

About ASI 

ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding. Established in 2003, with our head office in Bondi Beach, Sydney Australia, ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, international career opportunities and adventure.