At just 14, Maizy Gordon is already carving out space in a sport where Black girls have long been underrepresented—and she’s doing it with confidence, discipline, and joy.
The Oceanside, California–based surfer, drummer, and young writer has emerged as one of the most promising youth surfers in the U.S., earning national recognition for her competitive success and her growing presence in Southern California’s surf scene.
In May 2025, San Clemente Times named Gordon its “Grom of the Week,” spotlighting her rapid rise through the amateur surfing ranks. Currently an eighth grader at Coastal Academy School in Oceanside, Gordon began surfing in 2020 after being inspired by her older sister, Veronica.
“My older sister Veronica who surfs inspired me and pushed me into my first wave,” Gordon said. “I was hooked after that.”
Rising to the Top of Competitive Surfing
Since then, Gordon’s progress has been swift and impressive. She competes in Western Surfing Association (WSA) events and the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) Explorer division, where she is ranked No. 1 in the NSSA Southwest Explorer Girls season. She also recently joined the Salt Life team, marking a significant milestone in her young career.
Among her proudest achievements is finishing her first full NSSA Explorer season ranked at the top—a feat she described as “pretty amazing.” She has also made multiple finals appearances in both the Under-14 and Under-16 categories.
Gordon regularly surfs at Oceanside Pier, Oceanside Harbor, and Lower Trestles, and trains with respected coaches including John Daniels of LTR Surf, Julia Christian Surf, and Ryan Simmons. She credits her cousin, Makani Walker in Hawaii, with helping her overcome early fears of paddling out and building confidence in the water.
Beyond the Board
Outside of competition, Gordon’s life reflects a balance of creativity, community, and curiosity. She plays the drums, enjoys writing, participates in flag football, and spends time with friends and family—including her two poodles, Teddy and CoCo.
Her outlook remains grounded and grateful.
“I love surfing and the ocean,” she said. “I love spending time with my friends and family. Thank you to my family, who love and support me always. Grateful for them and for this beautiful life.”
A Bigger Meaning for Representation
For many observers, Gordon’s rise carries significance beyond trophies and rankings. As a young Black surfer thriving in competitive spaces, she represents a growing wave of girls of color reshaping who is seen—and celebrated—in surf culture.
At just 14, Maizy Gordon is not only mastering maneuvers and chasing titles. She’s quietly expanding the possibilities of where Black and brown girls belong—and proving that the lineup is one of them.
