Surf Select

Surf Select Youngers (U9–U13) – Ongoing Evaluation

• Tryout Process: Players are evaluated year-round during training, league play, and club events. Based on performance, the Technical Director and coaching staff recommend athletes for the regional tryout in Spokane, WA. Top athletes from the regional tryout will be invited to attend the Surf Select National Tryout in Del Mar, CA, in February.
• Selection Timeline: Regional invitations are extended in late June/early July. National invitations are extended following the regional camp.
• Why This Approach? Young players develop at different paces. Continuous observation allows us to identify those ready for the regional tryout while minimizing pressure. Once at the regional tryout, athletes will learn how to approach tryouts and become comfortable with the evaluation process.

Champions League – Open Tryouts (U-14 only)

• Tryout Process: Players are evaluated throughout the season by the Montana Surf Technical Director and coaching staff.
  
• Selection Timeline: Recommended athletes will receive an invitation in November/December 2025
• What to Expect: Players will be placed on a team with the “best of the best” from Missoula Surf, Montana Surf and Glacier Surf. Together our athletes will face off against Surf Clubs from across the United States at the renowned Surf Cup Sports Park in Del Mar, California. During this event athletes will be evaluated for spots on Surf Select National Teams.

Surf Select (U15–U17) – By Invitation Only

• Nomination Process: Players are evaluated throughout the season by the Montana Surf Technical Director and coaching staff. Nominations are based on consistent performance, attitude, leadership, and readiness for elite-level play.
• Selection Timeline: Player nominations will be requested by Surf Nation during fall of 2025. Surf Select athletes will be chosen in the following ways:
  • 1.Surf Nation selection committee reviews nominees and they are added to teams (we will request video and coach feedback)
  • 2. Surf Select / College ID Camps that will give players a chance to be coached/scouted by college coaches with Surf Select staff scouting at these events. There will be one in San Diego and one on the East Coast – Montana Surf athletes would attend the San Diego event. 

           Surf Select team invitations will be sent out by Surf Nation in late 2025. 

• Why This Approach? At this age, Surf Select is focused on identifying athletes who are ready for high-level national exposure. Evaluating players locally over time gives us the most accurate picture of their development, consistency, and potential. Incorporating coach feedback, film and high level coach evaluation helps the national selection committee make the best decisions.

Have Questions?

We know tryouts can be a stressful time for families, and we’re here to help. If you have questions about your athlete’s pathway or eligibility, please feel free to reach out to our coaching staff or email competitivedirector@montanasurf.org.