Surf Nation is comprised of like-minded coaches and administrators dedicated to our Surf mission to provide the best experiences and opportunities for their athletes. Since 2017, Valley Surf has been a proud partner of Surf Nation, and we have thoroughly enjoyed the partnership. We have watched their amazing club grow and seen them take full advantage being a part of the Surf brand.
What is the greatest benefit to Valley Surf being part of the Surf Nation community?
Surf Nation provides Valley Surf with a true national platform and network. It connects our players and coaches to best practices, competitive opportunities, and shared resources we wouldn’t have in isolation. Each week, we connect with dozens of other Surf affiliates, from Monterey to El Paso to Sunrise, to share ideas and solutions that strengthen player development. We have access to coaching education calls with Gary Curneen, digital assets created by Surf Nation, and reliable, experienced support whenever we need it. While we don’t always use every resource, when the need arises, Surf Nation is there and ready to help.
As the 2025/2026 season kicks off, what excites you the most? Do you have any goals for this season as a club?
The most exciting part is seeing how far our player pool has come since 2021. This year, we’re raising the bar with a more disciplined and demanding environment across all teams. Our primary club goal is to elevate the standard of development by focusing on process and long-term growth. We hold players accountable for their commitment, performance, and overall development. When the development process is done right, results and wins follow naturally.
Valley Surf has a proven track record of developing players for the next level, whether that is the collegiate ranks, international training centers, or the pros – what do you attribute this to?
Even with our success compared to other local clubs, we are just scratching the surface. We don’t cut corners and focus on long-term development rather than short-term results. Equally important, our staff invests in truly knowing our players and guiding them on the right pathways, whether that’s college, professional opportunities, or international training programs. In recent years, our players have trained and competed with IDA in Valencia, Spain, gaining unparalleled international experience. Hundreds of our players have participated in our Surf Select program over the past four years, giving top players opportunities to compete in elite domestic and international events. Others have had chances to tryout and train with USL and MLS academies. Now, with ECNL and ECNL RL, our players compete in the nation’s top youth development platforms, where every match is challenging and meaningful, and they now have opportunities to attend the top college recruiting events across the country.
Together, these pathways give Valley Surf players access to the very best opportunities for growth and advancement. A lot of work has gone into getting here, and Surf Nation has been a great partner and ally along the way. For anyone looking to be part of a larger soccer community, seeking support, or wanting to enhance player development, I encourage you to reach out to Andy Prosser, our Surf Nation leader. Surf isn’t for everyone, but for those looking for community and connection, it’s an excellent fit.
Learn more about Empire Surf at www.valleysurf.org
