Keen to get your little one on a surfboard? We spoke to Luke Campbell, Micro Groms manager at Scarborough Boardriders, about programs for kids under 12. You never know – you could have a future pro surfer on your hands. 

Tell us about Scarborough Boardriders Club.

The club was established over 25 years ago and caters for all ages. We get together 11 times a year at our local beaches from Stanwell Park to Thirroul.  Our club is run by an incredible bunch of volunteers and has a range of past, present and future surfing stars… and Micro Groms is where many of them started!

What are the programs you offer for kids, from ages five (or younger) to 12?

We run the Micro Groms program, which encourages kids up to 12 years to get in the water and have a go. The younger kids go under ‘parent/carer assist’, where their parent/carer accompanies them in the water. Depending on their age/ability, the older kids can go in the water on their own, but still under supervision. Once the kids turn 12, they graduate into the Junior Competition, which is where they compete in official heats and are scored.

For the smaller kids, what swimming/surfing capabilities would you expect from a new recruit?

All kids need to be able to swim and be confident in the water, you can be a first-time surfer as long as you have a parent /carer who can accompany you. Often the youngest kids just have fun catching waves laying on the board with their parents. It’s all about getting the kids in the water and onto their surfboard even if they don’t stand up.

Do they need to bring their own boards, or do you provide them?

We don’t provide any surfboards, so all kids need to bring one. If you have a keen grom and need a board – DP Surfboards in Thirroul have some great boards for beginners and all levels.

How often do you meet?

We meet on the first Sunday of every month, although this does change due to the conditions, we do have to be flexible as it can change month to month and sometimes, we have to cancel a round due to the conditions but aim to reschedule when we can. Our priority is the kids' safety so that always comes into our decision making if we need to cancel a round.

Why would you recommend parents sign up their children?

Our club is all about having fun. Micros is the perfect intro to surfing with no pressure. Our aim is to encourage kids to surf no matter what the level and most of all have fun with friends and family whilst doing it. The kids are not scored but they do get to wear an official heat jersey, which they love. We know we have many future pro surfers in the club, and we are so stoked to get them on their way!

Follow the Scarborough Boardriders Facebook page and/or Instagram page for 2023 registration updates in the new year