All Swell Surf, a beloved local surf shop, launched its innovative Wave Makers sponsorship program on April 1, 2025, celebrating the first recipients of the award, a group of young girls recognized not for their competitive rankings, but for their community spirit, kindness, and passion for surfing. The announcement took place at a lively event held at the shop on Calle de Los Molinos, where friends, family, and community members gathered to honor the new Wave Makers: Camryn Mills, 13, Brooklyn Bannan, 8, and Willow Brennan, 9.
Owner Jamie Clinard created the program to address a gap she noticed in the surf industry. “We wanted to sponsor girls based on their heart, their leadership, and how they uplift others in their community, rather than focusing solely on competition stats,” Clinard explained. “This program shines a light on the incredible young girls who are already doing amazing things.”
The sponsorship program, which lasts for three months, will feature new cohorts of Wave Makers each quarter. This first group will serve as mentors for future recipients, fostering a sense of sisterhood and continuity among the young surfers.
“The goal is to build a close-knit community within our corner of the surf industry,” said Clinard. “We’re shining a spotlight on girls who exemplify leadership and encouragement both in and out of the water.”
The honorees all share a love for surfing that goes beyond competition. For Camryn, who started surfing at the age of 3, the sport represents a way to connect with the ocean and her community. “Surfing isn’t just about competition,” she said. “It’s about having fun and being with friends.”
Brooklyn, who was introduced to surfing at age 1, was surprised but excited to be recognized. “I’ve never been sponsored before,” she said. “It’s really special, especially because it’s an all-girls program.”
Willow, also introduced to surfing as a toddler, spoke about the deeper connections surfing fosters. “I like helping people learn how to surf and encouraging kindness,” she said, referring to the importance of teaching the “fruits of the spirit” to others.
While their experience levels vary, all three girls share a focus on community and positivity. Their passion for surfing is rooted in a spirit of inclusivity, as they work to encourage more girls to take up the sport. “I helped my friends who are girls learn how to surf,” Brooklyn shared. “I wanted them to know they could do it, too.”
Camryn also expressed pride in getting more girls involved in surfing, saying, “It’s not just all boys out there anymore. I wanted to make it more fun for girls.”
The program aims to support these young women’s development not just as surfers, but as role models within their community. The Wave Makers’ influence extends far beyond the surfboard, inspiring others to find joy in the water and foster a sense of belonging in the surf culture.
Looking ahead, all three girls expressed hopes of continuing to surf as they grow older—not for competition, but simply for the love of the sport and the joy of teaching others. “I hope I can keep surfing when I grow up,” Brooklyn said. “Not for competition, but because I love it, and maybe I’ll teach others along the way.”
In a town known for producing some of the best surfers in the world, these young girls are setting a new standard—one rooted in kindness, leadership, and a deep connection to the ocean. As Camryn aptly put it, “You don’t have to be the best to love surfing. You just have to love it.”
About All Swell Surf
All Swell Surf is a local surf shop in San Clemente, CA, known for fostering community, inclusivity, and a love for surfing. The Wave Makers program is one of many initiatives by the shop to inspire and support young surfers, especially girls, by highlighting their contributions to the sport and community.