UF Surf & Skate Clubs’ Annual ‘King of Clubs’ Unites Collegiate Surfers

By Olivia Lockett

The air was filled with saltwater and the buzz of competition as the UF Surf Club hosted its 8th annual ‘King of Clubs’ surf competition on April 5 at Jacksonville Beach.

College surfers from across North Florida gathered to battle it out in the waves for the top spot, but the event offered more than just athleticism— it was a celebration of community and culture that lasted long beyond the competition into an overnight celebration.

“KOC [King of Clubs] is the highlight of every surfer’s year,” said former Flagler student Ben Giufurta. “It’s as fun as it gets. The waves almost always suck, but that never stops us.”

With over 150 spectators lining the beach, the competition saw top surfers from University of Florida, Florida State University, University of North Florida, Flagler College and more.

King of Clubs is divided into men’s and women’s divisions, with competitors battling not only the waves but also the unpredictable conditions that challenge their skill and technique.

“I’ve been hearing about this event since I was 16 years old, but this was the first year I got to be a part of it,” said Flagler sophomore Isabella Morello. “It definitely lived up to the hype.”

Flagler freshman Maggie Demsey won the women’s competition, and recent Flagler graduate Jay Carvalho took home first prize for the men’s.

Students were beyond proud of their school’s wins, adding to the excitement of the day.

After the last wave was ridden, the festivities moved to the Dutton Island Preserve campground for an overnight celebration.

Live music by local bands kept the crowd entertained as they mingled around campfires, reflecting on the day’s action and meeting new people.

“The bands from all the schools came and gave us a whole bunch more fun. It’s never a bad time camping, and it’s one hell of a way to spend a night,” Giufurta said.

As the night went on, the sounds of music and laughter echoed beneath a starlit sky, creating a perfect backdrop for surfers and spectators alike to unwind.

“I really felt like I was part of a community,” Isabella Morello said. “We all came together to be a part of this event, build relationships with one another, enjoy the music and be in nature.”

A mix of students, local surfers and music lovers enjoyed an evening of camaraderie, reminiscing about the day’s waves and the powerful performances of both the athletes and the bands.

“I couldn’t pick a better way to spend my birthday weekend. King of Clubs has become a must-see event for me,” said Flagler sophomore Bridgette Harrington. “Enjoying the live music had to be my favorite part.”

While the waves may have calmed by the time the sun set over Dutton Island, the energy remained high well into the evening.

“The day starts high-paced, and it only gets more entertaining from there as the night goes on,” said St. Augustine resident Tre Evans.

The ‘King of Clubs’ event proved once again that it’s not just about competition— it’s about celebrating the culture, community and spirit of surfing that makes it all worthwhile.

“It’s such a great way to connect with not only the people but also the world around me,” said FSU senior Ava Thompson. “I’ve enjoyed attending every year, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for King of Clubs.”