7th street grom squad spotlights by Avery Schuyler
7th Street Surf Shop’s team Grom Squad is a group of local young skaters and surfers who absolutely rock it on the waves. Many with the hopes of becoming professional surfers one day, these kids train for hours together every week to perfect their technique, preparing for surf contests while having a blast along the way. Being a part of the Grom Squad gives these kids an incredible opportunity to live and learn from fellow surf monkeys all while under the wing of the 7th Street family. When the energetic Groms aren’t ripping in the ocean on 7th Street beach, they are often seen zestfully romping around one of the 7th Street Surf Shops (located at 7th and Boardwalk, 11th and Boardwalk, and 720 Asbury Avenue). Although young, this amazing group is filled with some of the most passionate and dedicated surfers on the island. The ocean is not only their playground and workspace, but it is their home. Meet some of the team members in our spotlight below.
Cooper Jewell, 12 Why do you love to surf? “I love being in the ocean with my friends.” Give us a fun fact. “I’m really good at ping pong.”
Jeremy Nordberg, 14 Why do you love to surf? “Surfing connects me with nature and different cultures.” Give us a fun fact. “I love pancakes.”
Chris Sardy, 14 Why do you love to surf? “It makes me happy.” Give us a fun fact. “I like the Yankees.”
Jason Stein, 16 Why do you love to surf? “It’s just really fun.” Give us a fun fact. “I got run over by a car and survived.”
Ethan Kimmel, 16 Why do you love to surf? “It’s a very fun escape from the real world.” Give us a fun fact. “I fell off a ski lift and survived.”
Jackson Jewell, 13 Why do you love to surf? “Because I can learn new things and improve while hanging out with my friends.” Give us a fun fact. “I was born in Virginia.”
Stephen Zakroff Why do you love to surf? “I’ve grown up loving being in the water and it brings me happiness.” Give us a fun fact. “I’ve never had a surf lesson.” Groms missing: Cruz Dinofa, Ethan Dunn, Owen Dunn, Matt Dinan, Zach Dinan, Jake Dinan, and Griffin Hageman.
