San Diego, CA., April 9, 2025 — Surf Nation is proud to announce the launch of our newest partner club, Rip City Surf. In the world of youth sports, the Surf brand is renowned for professionalism, elite event management, high-quality coaching, and most importantly, a deep commitment to player development. Surf’s mission is to create experiences and opportunities for players, and we’re excited to grow our presence in the Florida Panhandle and surrounding communities.
Effective immediately, Florida Roots Soccer School will rebrand to Rip City Surf. Led by a team of experienced coaches and administrators with deep ties to the Florida Panhandle, Rip City Surf will continue to offer a high-quality player development environment. Through its integration into the Surf Nation community the club will now benefit from access to Surf Nation’s extensive resources and opportunities—both on and off the field.
“Both organizations have worked diligently throughout the process and we are delighted to welcome Rip City Surf into our community” says Andy Prosser, Surf Nation Director. “We feel there is so much opportunity within Panama City, the Panhandle, and surrounding areas to elevate the experience of youth soccer and deliver our mission. Our work has already started, and we are excited to see what we can achieve to ensure we become the premier soccer destination within our partnership with Rip City Surf.”
“This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for our club. By joining Surf Nation, we’re unlocking pathways that elevate player and coach development beyond the local level. It’s a defining moment for the Florida Panhandle as we create a new home for the ‘Best of the Best’ to train, compete, and grow. Together, we’re building something that will leave a lasting impact on the soccer culture in our community.”
— Jonathan Hammond, Director of Soccer, Rip City Surf
As a member of the Surf Nation network, Rip City Surf players and families will gain access to an expanded suite of support and resources, helping position the club as the premier soccer destination in Northwest Florida. One key benefit is access to Surf Select, an exclusive identification program for players ages U9 through U17. This unique initiative draws from Surf’s vast player pool—spanning from Puerto Rico and Rhode Island to Hawaii and Canada—and provides elite players the opportunity to compete in some of the top domestic and international events in all of youth soccer.
For more information and tryout information, visit RipCitySurf.com.
About Surf:
For over 47 years, Surf has been one of the founding organizations in youth soccer. With over $12 Million in charitable donations, 20+ national championships, and countless professional, collegiate, and international players, we are forever striving to be the “Best of the Best.” Rip City Surf joins our 55+ Surf National Affiliates to comprise what we’re proud to call Surf Nation.
