From June 22–24, 2017, the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), in partnership with the Junior Seau Foundation, hosted its 2nd Annual Youth Adaptive Surf Camp in Del Mar, California—a three-day celebration of resilience, community, and the power of sport.

This immersive camp brought together youth with physical disabilities and world-class mentors for an unforgettable surf experience. The event also marked a historic milestone: for the first time, a team of athletes participating in adaptive surfing competed in the 13th Annual Switchfoot BRO-AM, sharing the same waves and spotlight as pros and amateurs at Moonlight Beach. 

Honoring a Legacy: Junior Seau Foundation Adaptive Surf Program 

The Junior Seau Foundation Adaptive Surf Program, launched with a $250,000 gift in 2016, continues to build on Junior Seau’s legacy of youth empowerment and inclusivity. Designed to provide universal access to surfing for individuals with physical challenges, the program opens the door to the ocean for those who have historically been excluded from traditional surf experiences. 

In its second year, the surf camp delivered expert coaching, mentorship, and a supportive beach environment tailored for learning and growth. 

Elite Coaches with Lived Experience Lead the Way 

Participants trained with an impressive group of athletes who have competed at the highest levels in adaptive surfing and beyond: 

• Alana Nichols – A multi-sport powerhouse and 3-time Paralympic gold medalist, Alana made history as the first American woman to win gold in both Summer and Winter Games. She now brings that same determination to the surf lineup. 

• Dani Burt – The 2016 U.S. Champion in the adaptive division of the USA Surfing Championships and a seasoned competitor at the ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championships. 

• Mike Coots – A professional surfer and shark conservationist who lost his leg in a shark attack and returned to the ocean with a vengeance. He won silver at the 2016 ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championships. 

• Ryan Gambrell – A Team USA representative and ambassador for Little People of America, Ryan continues to push boundaries in the water and raise visibility for athletes with dwarfism. 

These athletes not only provided technical coaching but also embodied what’s possible through perseverance, creativity, and community. 

Breaking Barriers at the Switchfoot BRO-AM 

On Saturday, June 24, the excitement moved to Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, where more than 15,000 fans attended the 13th Annual Switchfoot BRO-AM surf and music festival, presented by Hurley and iHeartMedia. 

In a landmark moment, the CAF surf team competed in the team contest—riding the same waves as pros and amateurs for the very first time. 

“Our goal has always been to give back to organizations making a difference in the sport we love,” said Switchfoot frontman Jon Foreman. “Bringing in Team CAF not only celebrates inclusion—it helps redefine what competitive surfing can look like.”

Expression Session: Spotlight on the Next Wave 

Festival-goers cheered as youth surf camp participants took center stage during the Junior Seau Foundation Adaptive Surf Program Expression Session. The 30-minute heat gave campers a chance to surf alongside legends like Rob Machado and members of GRAMMY® Award-winning band Switchfoot, catching waves and earning medals in front of thousands of spectators.

It was a moment of pure joy, empowerment, and proof that with the right support, barriers can be broken—and replaced with confidence. 

Partnerships That Power Progress 

CAF is proud to partner with: 

• The Junior Seau Foundation, whose support fuels this program’s impact 

• Hurley, a brand committed to inclusion in board sports 

• The City of Del Mar Lifeguards, who help create a safe, accessible beach environment 

Surfing Toward a More Inclusive Future 

The Junior Seau Foundation Youth Adaptive Surf Camp isn’t just a surf lesson—it’s a launchpad. By creating opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities to experience the ocean, CAF is changing perceptions of what’s possible and building a stronger, more inclusive sports community. 

As the surf camp continues to grow, so does the wave of athletes inspired to chase their dreams—on and off the water.