Former professional surfer turned chef Matt Hoar saw a gap in the market on the South Coast, and has taken big steps to filling it.
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He decided to start the Dalmeny Surf Academy earlier this year to give promising surfers on the South Coast opportunities that he felt he missed out on as a youngster.
Matt spent four years as a professional surfer, and competed in tournaments all over the world in his early 20s.
"I moved back to the South Coast and realised that there are a small number of kids that show potential in that competition area, and I wanted to impart some of my knowledge built up over years of experience competing to those kids and give them as many opportunities as I could that I never had when I was growing up down here," Matt said.
Dalmeny Boardriders president Matt can coach any age or level from beginner to elite, but his main focus is the intermediate to advanced level.
He wants to give people the opportunity to develop their skills, help them understand what is and isn't working, and work with those who are keen to get highly competitive and learn the strategies and psychology that go with competing.
"There's a handful of kids that are pretty competitive and have the potential," he said.
"They're based between Batemans Bay and Merimbula. They're the ones that come week to week."
The academy is open for any age group, however Matt finds the younger crowd more competitive.
"I find those mid-20's and older are less likely to be interested in competing," he said.
"They're more like intermediate level. Most of the kids that are getting into competitions are anywhere from 12 to 18.
They are the most competitive ones and they're the ones that we do heat drills with and work on their competition tactics."
Students of the academy can have the opportunity to practice their skills by participating in competitions held by the Dalmeny Board Riders club.
Matt also coaches those looking at competing at higher levels, as he knows the different strategies needed for each level whether it be club, regional or state.
If you're interested in finding out more information or looking to improve your surfing skill set, contact Matt via Instagram @dalmenysurfacademy or visit his Facebook page, Dalmeny Surf Academy.
