Emma FRY: GB Surfing ED&I Committee Member
When I joined the GB Surfing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) Advisory Group in March 2024, I was inspired by the challenge ahead: How can we make surfing a sport where everyone—regardless of background, age, gender, ethnicity, disability, socioeconomic background, or ability—can participate, feel welcomed, and even compete on the global stage?
Working together as an Advisory Group, the first step was to establish our starting point. To chart a path towards a more equitable surfing environment, we need at GB Surfing a clear understanding of what elite surfing looks like now. Once we knew our baseline position, we can define the milestones and strategy to achieve real progress.
Throughout 2024 we have had invaluable conversations and support from sporting thought leaders and key academics. Notably, Brendon Ferrier, a passionate surfer with a PhD in the biomechanics of surfing, brings a wealth of expertise in surf performance, judging, and research. As the academic lead at the Innovative Surf Lab at the Lost Shore Surf Resort and a lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University, Brendon combines cutting-edge academic insight with a deep personal connection to the sport. Additionally, Belinda Wheaton a Professor at the University of Waikato in New Zealand. She is a sports sociologist with expertise in action sports cultures, equity and inclusion. Belinda has conducted extensive research on action sports cultures inclusions in the Olympics, and has informed national sport policy including in the UK.
Collaborating with the Home Nation surfing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) has also been essential in understanding how our efforts can complement their existing initiatives, while laying a foundation that can be sustained year after year. This partnership has emphasised the importance of creating a process that captures both the diversity of individuals in surfing and their experiences within the sport.
Building a Framework for Inclusive Surfing: Data Collection
Through these discussions, the approach we need to take has become clear. We need to capture both quantitative and qualitative data to develop a comprehensive picture of diversity and inclusion today in elite surfing.
Therefore, our first phase focuses on the collection of quantitative data on demographics to capture diversity. We are now ready to announce our survey which will go live in early February 2025. This survey is targeted at all key stakeholders in GB Surfing and the Home Nations who participate and support the elite level of surfing across Great Britain: athletes, their families, coaches, board members, management teams, officials, and volunteers. We encourage this important group to all contribute fully with complete confidentiality. All data will be held securely at Napier University and will not be identifiable.
This is a critical opportunity to collect essential demographic data across the elite level of surfing, enabling us to identify patterns and trends that reveal the unique challenges and opportunities within our surfing community. Participation is vital, as it will provide a robust foundation for understanding who is involved in the sport currently and thereby inform strategies, to enable increased inclusivity and equality.
Our second phase will be collecting qualitative data to understand inclusion. This will take place later in 2025.
Turning Insights into Action: The Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP)
Once collected, the demographic and inclusion data will guide us in the development of our first Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP). Again, partnering with the Home Nation NGBs, this plan will set out targeted actions based on the insights we gather, ensuring that our collaborative efforts address the real needs of our community. From creating accessible entry points at local beaches to fostering inclusive environments within competitive surfing, the DIAP will outline our commitment to make surfing a sport for everyone and a sport within which anyone has the opportunity to become an elite athlete capable of winning Olympic medals.
Personal Learnings and Reflections
Leading this data collection project has highlighted the value of working closely with a wide range of people, including board members, coaches, and academic partners, reflecting the needs of the whole community. Feedback has been incredibly important, showing how input from different perspectives can help us refine and improve our approach as we go. Being clear and open about the survey’s purpose, how the data will be used, and the steps we’ll take afterwards has helped build trust and credibility. This process has also reinforced that work on equality, diversity, and inclusion is an ongoing journey, where continuous learning and adaptation are key.
As we continue this journey, we invite everyone to engage with us and contribute to building an inclusive future for UK surfing. Together, we can create a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming surfing community that reflects the spirit of the sport – from local waves all the way to the Olympic stage.