They Will Surf Again Frequently Asked Questions

The information below should help to address many of the questions participants and volunteers might inquire about. If we are missing an important item, or if you could suggest a question we should answer, please let us know by filling out this form.

Adaptive Surfer Participant Questions

Q. I would like to participate as an adaptive surfer, how do I sign up?
A. Click the sign up button under "They Will Surf Again" on the LRO home page, or by clicking here.

Q. I plan on attending an upcoming event as an adaptive surfer, what type of equipment do I need? Should I bring anything with me?
A. Depending on the time of the year, bring a full length wetsuit and neoprene life vest, if you own them. Also, if you have your own surfboard, bring it. If you don't have any equipment, that is not a problem. We will supply a wetsuit, life vest and soft top board.

Q. I've never surfed before and am not sure I can do it. What limitations would prevent me from being able to participate in the event?
A. For the most part, anyone can participate. Even those who have limited use of their arms or no use of their arms can most likely be accommodated. If you are unsure, just come to the beach and check it out. You might just get inspired on the sand. Ventilator dependent individuals may be difficult to accommodate.

Q. I am actually pretty freaked out about getting "thrown to the sharks." Will there be any training about what I should expect, or how I should react once in the water? When I fall off the board?
A. We will give you a safety brief on the beach. You will be surrounded by very capable volunteers (and a lot of them).

Q. As a surfer, how do I get from the beach to the water?
A. You will be assisted at all times by a group of volunteers. They will get you on your board, push you into the waves and grab you when you reach the end of your ride. We typically also have beach wheelchairs to get you from the parking lot to the water's edge.

Q. What happens when I fall off the wave or the board? How do I get back on the board?
A. In the event of a fall you will find yourself in someone's arms immediately. With so many people surrounding you at all times, you have very little to worry about except having fun. If you are wearing a life vest, it will help you float while a volunteer comes to get you.

Q. As a surfer my safety is very important to me. What type of training and safety do the volunteers have to ensure my safety?
A. Many of the volunteers are lifeguards or ex-lifeguards. There are also lifeguards on duty that will be supervising the event from the beach and/or tower.

Q. If the water is cold enough so that a wetsuit is required, how do I get into the wetsuit? My privacy is an issue.
A. We always choose locations for the event that have changing rooms or restrooms available for dressing and undressing. Even in warm water conditions, we would recommend wearing a wetsuit to protect you and your skin from any potential scratches or unexpected bumps. Surfing has its risks.

Q. I have special needs with regards to how I am lifted, how do I communicate that to the volunteers who are helping me?
A. At the safety briefing, on the shore the day of the event, please speak up about any special needs you may have. However, we will always ask all participants about their special needs at this meeting.

Q. I can't swim. Can I still participate in the event as a surfer?
A. Some of our regular participants cannot swim. We will teach you how to float properly after a fall and how to hold your breath under the waves. You are extremely buoyant so even if you have limited use of your arms, you should have few problems feeling comfortable in the water.

Volunteer Questions

Q. What types of volunteers are needed for TWSA events?
A. We need volunteers on the land and the water. Sign up for the event and notify us of your preference. Water volunteers should be very comfortable in all types of surf. If you would like to donate food and drink, that is always appreciated.

Q. I would like to participate as a volunteer, how do I sign up?
A. Click the 'sign up' button under "They Will Surf Again" on the LRO home page. You can also do it by clicking here.

Q. I have a few friends that want to come down and help out, but they did not sign up on the website. What should I do?
A. Sign ups can be done via www.liferollson.org/twsasignup up to the day before the event.

Q. Do you offer any training on dealing with participants with special needs?
A. We will not be providing you with any training. However, at the safety briefing, we will offer pointers to water volunteers before they get in the water with the participants.

General Questions

Q. Do I need to sign any type of liability waiver to participate in the event?
A. Participants will be presented with a waiver on the beach. You must sign it to participate.

Q. I would like to write an article about TWSA. Can I get photos and access to the event?
A. If you are with the press, with a publication, with a news group of any kind, if you are shooting a film, or a student film, please contact TWSA Program Director, Meghan Schinderle, for clearance to cover the event. Complete the TWSA sign up form and indicate your request.

Q. I have items that I can donate to support the program. What types of items do you need? How do I get them to you?
A. We welcome donations of any kind. We are especially interested in surf equipment donations, food and beverage. Let us know if you can bring your donations down to the next event. If not, we will arrange to have it shipped or to have someone pick it up. Let us know if you have something you would like to contribute.

Q. What other safety concerns or issues should I know about?
A. Read additional information on putting on wetsuits, autonomic dysreflexia and rip tides.

Did we miss something? Let us know and we will add it to this list. Thank you for your support of the They Will Surf Again program of Life Rolls On.