Last weekend, March 7-8, Church beach was the site of weak waves and highly competitive surfing. High schools across California met to battle each other at the annual NSSA State Championships. Teams consisting of 6 boys, 2 girls, and 1 long boarder have been training for months in hopes of claiming the title of state champ. Surfing for Huntington's varsity team was Colton Larson, Eddie Elles, Kyle McGeary, Evan Kane, Shane Nelson, Christian Saenz, Charlotte Dellea, Anissa Gulindo, and Wade Carden. This year, a new division was added to the competition to give younger team members a chance to surf. The new Junior Varsity division gave up-coming stand outs the chance to shine in front of the judges and coaches. Representing the JV team was Tony Bartovich who made the finals and Marco Passaquindici surfed great as well. Young talents Dane McCrystal, Chris Love, Cal Lathrope, Jack Boyes, Shea Barrett and Shanae Dreissen ripped!

Locals from San Clemente High gave HB tough competition throughout the contest, but Huntington gave them a run with 3 guys placing in the final. Blowing up in the final was Evan Kane taking 2nd, Shane Nelson in 4th, and Kyle McGeary making great efforts in 6th place. As scores were tallied at the end of the day it looked as though Huntington's outstanding surfing wouldn't be enough to beat local favorite SCHS. With Nationals right around the corner, Coach Verdone already has surfers training hard for a big win & title.

(03/09/09)