The world of bodyboarding is about to embark on an exciting journey with the introduction of the Association for the Progression of Bodyboarding (APB). This newly formed organization aims to bring a much-needed sense of unity and direction to a sport that, despite its passionate community, has often struggled with fragmentation and a lack of cohesion.
A Unified Voice for Bodyboarding
One of the key figures behind the APB, Mike Stewart, the Godfather of Bodyboarding himself, emphasizes the need for a unified voice. He believes that by bringing together the various independent efforts within the sport, bodyboarding can gain more leverage and support, especially when engaging with surf federations and national bodies.
"There's a lot of different things happening independently...unifying everybody would give us one voice that would speak for the sport." - Mike Stewart
Focus on Youth Development
A crucial aspect of the APB's mission is the development of pathways for youth. Stewart highlights the importance of nurturing young talent and creating programs specifically tailored for their growth. This focus on the future generation of bodyboarders is a key strategy to ensure the long-term vitality of the sport.
Overcoming Cynicism and Building Trust
The bodyboarding community, known for its fierce independence and a healthy dose of cynicism, will need to be convinced of the APB's sincerity. Stewart addresses this by pointing to the organization's transparent structure and principles, which prioritize the sport's interests over personal gain. The APB's not-for-profit status and open foundational documents are designed to build trust and encourage participation.
"We don't have any ulterior motive other than bringing the sport together and unifying everyone." - Mike Stewart
The Olympic Dream and International Opportunities
One of the most intriguing aspects of the APB's vision is the pursuit of Olympic inclusion. Stewart believes that this pathway could benefit smaller nations with talented riders, offering them a chance to compete for medals on the international stage. The APB aims to explore opportunities for bodyboarding's participation in various multi-nation competitions and events, including the ISA and World Championships, as well as the potential Olympic Games cycle in Brisbane 2032.
A New Chapter or More of the Same?
The future of bodyboarding hangs in the balance as the community decides whether the APB represents a genuine step towards unity or just another acronym in a long line of well-intentioned initiatives. The success of the APB will depend on its ability to bring together clubs, promoters, national organizations, riders, and volunteers under one banner, creating a structure that finally allows bodyboarding to move forward without the hindrances of politics and competing agendas.
As we watch this unfolding story, one thing is certain: bodyboarding's future is full of potential, and the APB could be the catalyst for a new era of progress and recognition for this passionate sport.
