Founded in 1988, the Texas Gulf Surfing Association (TGSA) has played a pivotal role in nurturing the surfing community in the Coastal Bend. With a mission to promote, preserve and protect the sport of surfing along the Texas coast, TGSA offers a special space for surfers of all levels. With the longest-running tenure of any amateur surfing organization in the state, the non-profit’s commitment to developing local talent, from first-timers to seasoned riders, sets it apart.
Through competitions, coaching support and youth programs, TGSA trains and mentors curious young surfers to represent Texas in local and national competitions. At the heart of this mission is the TGSA All-Star Team, composed primarily of junior surfers who exemplify dedication, sportsmanship and skill. These young athletes carry the torch for the next generation of Texas surfing while reflecting the pride of the Coastal Bend community.
“We’re not just about riding waves,” shared TGSA President Kristen Darden. “We are about building character, supporting our coast and inspiring a lifelong connection to the ocean.”
In addition to competing, the surfers who make up the All-Star Team participate in fundraising activities and volunteer at events, further implementing the importance of accountability and getting involved with your community. Partnerships with groups such as the Surfrider Foundation bring environmental stewardship to the forefront of the organization.
Special recognition goes to Walter Sohl, Chris Hopkins and All-Star Head Coach Morgan Faulkner for their dedication to the cornerstone of the organization’s purpose. Retired head coach Cliff Schlabach continues educating surfers about environmental wellness and leads youth cleanup events. Schlabach and his wife, both TGSA pioneers, now help run Surfrider Foundation initiatives as the Texas Coastal Bend Chapter Executive Committee’s co-chair.
The influence of TGSA alumni is felt far and wide. Many have gone on to become professional surfers, judges and mentors.
The late John Olvey, an award-winning and widely recognized Texas surfer and artist, fiercely supported the organization. In his honor, the John Olvey Scholarship was established to encourage young surfers to achieve their professional dreams. TGSA identifies a student each season to award the scholarship, with the most recent $3,000 recipient in April 2025 being high school senior Keagan Sohl, who is headed off to college this fall.
TGSA’s events act as celebrations of surf culture, learning and legacy. Backed by dedicated volunteers, local sponsors and a tight-knit surf family, the organization continues to thrive.
“We want people to know that the TGSA is all-inclusive,” Darden explained. “We are an amateur organization that caters to everyone, where they gain an entire surfing family and community.”
