13 August 2024, Uluwatu – Bali:  The Asian Surf Cooperative together with Kala Surf Camp Uluwatu organized and completed a comprehensive ISA (International Surfing Association) Surf Instructor Certification program from August 7-11 at Uluwatu, which included the Level 1 Surf Instructor course, the Aquatic Rescue course, and the practical training program.  This program was a big win for the local surfing community, with 14 participants (Kala Surf Camp instructors and surfers from the area) completing the intensive program. The course was organized by the Asian Surf Cooperative (ASC) and led by ISA Presenter, Jonni Morrison-Deaker.

Lisa Marie Bruggemann, Director of Kala Surf Camp Uluwatu, was very satisfied with the program, saying: “I’m thrilled to have hosted the ISA Surf Instructor course at Kala Surf Camp Uluwatu! This was an incredible opportunity to provide our local surf instructors with a world-class education that’s usually out of reach. By bringing this course to our community, we’re not only sharing valuable knowledge, but also helping to grow the sport of surfing right here in Bali. I’m super happy to support our local talent and watch them thrive in their surfing careers!”

The week-long course covered everything from wave analysis and surf conditions to effective coaching techniques, water safety, and surf etiquette. Participants also completed 20 hours of hands-on teaching practice—a crucial step toward earning their certification.

First-time ISA course participant Kimi, a surfer from Germany, had this to say:

“I’ve been surfing for the past 5 years, and it’s my first time joining the ISA course. I’m planning to be a surf guide in the future and I didn’t have much teaching experience, so this is a great first step to get me there. I would definitely recommend it to anyone. Jonni is a great instructor and explainer. I have learned a lot of things I wasn’t aware of, such as safety, the beginners’ perspective, and other considerations. It was really helpful.”

In addition to surf instruction, the course focused heavily on aquatic rescue techniques—an essential skill for service to the community. Trained surf instructors often step in as lifeguards at local beaches where dedicated lifeguards are scarce or non-existent.

Participants dove into a mix of classroom theory and physical training that included stretching, swimming, pool drills, and ocean activities like run-swim-runs and board rescues. They also practiced CPR, evacuation procedures, and crafted lesson plans tailored to different skill levels and wave conditions. Safety was a top priority, with all participants completing at least 20 hours of practical surf lesson training.

Febri Anggriawan, a surf coach at Kala Surf Camp, shared his experience:
“I’ve been surfing since I was 8 years old, and have been an instructor for the past 2 years here at Kala Surf Camp. But I’ve learned so much from this ISA course about everything, waves, conditions, coaching… Jonni is a great presenter, he knows everything, and I know that this ISA course will help me achieve my future goals!”

ISA programs like this are key to the ASC’s mission of growing and supporting surfing across Asia, from beginners to professionals.