Sandro Maximiliano: Lusófona University Surf Club

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University sports play a crucial role in the training of athletes and coaches worldwide. Most top athletes emerge from schools and universities, making it essential to encourage and invest in these training hubs. Within this dynamic, the Lusófona University Surf Club has stood out as one of the main agents in the development and training of the sport, supporting students on this challenging journey and their future ambitions.

Sandro Maximiliano, a representative of the club, explained that the project was conceived to provide students with an environment conducive to practising the sport and developing technical and pedagogical skills. One of the club’s main distinguishing factors is its coach training programme, which has played a key role in improving surf teaching standards in Portugal. "There has always been a need to offer a structured teaching and qualification programme, focusing not only on the athletes but also on the professionals who guide their development. Our goal is to enhance the quality of work of these trainers, ensuring that they leave university with solid knowledge and practical experience," says Sandro.

To strengthen practice and teaching, the club has established partnerships with various entities, such as other schools, federations, and academic institutions. "We work together to provide high-level training and offer students real opportunities for entering the job market. We create personalised training programmes, workshops, and public events to promote surf culture," Sandro explains. These initiatives also include academic studies on the impact of sport on physical and mental health.

Coaches face challenges such as the need for continuous training, professional regulation, and working conditions. In this sense, the club plays a key role in providing the necessary support to keep these professionals up to date and prepared for market demands. Future plans include expanding training courses, establishing new international partnerships, and creating a reference training centre. "We want to become a centre of excellence for surf coach training in Portugal," Sandro reveals.

Promoting diversity in surfing is also on the agenda. "We aim to make the sport more accessible by encouraging the participation of different groups," he points out. With innovative and dedicated work, the club is consolidating itself as a reference in the academic and sporting scene.

Production
Ana Azevedo

Images and interview
Catarina Castanheira and Cristo Chikale

Editing
Cristo Chikale