๐ŸŒŠ Maddie Stanton Competes at the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final: A Day She’ll Never Forget

January 15, 2024

On January 11, 2024, rising surf athlete Maddie Stanton experienced one of the most memorable moments of her competitive journey — the opportunity to compete at the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final held at the Palm Springs Surf Club. For Maddie, the event wasn’t just another contest. It was a milestone, a chance to surf alongside some of the best young surfers in the country, and a day filled with excitement, gratitude, and unforgettable waves.

A National Final Built for the Next Generation of Surfing

The Rip Curl GromSearch series is known for discovering some of the world’s most promising young surfers. Competing in the National Final is already a major achievement — it’s an invitation reserved only for athletes who have proved themselves through standout performances.

At the Palm Springs Surf Club, an innovative wave pool known for producing high-performance, competition-style waves, Maddie stepped into a world-class arena designed to test precision, creativity, and adaptability.

She delivered strong, committed surfing throughout the day, attacking the sections with confidence and demonstrating why she continues to rise in the competitive ranks.


“A Day I’ll Never Forget” — Maddie’s Experience

Reflecting on the event, Maddie described it as an honor and a moment that will stay with her forever. From connecting with fellow competitors to riding some of the cleanest, most predictable waves in a controlled setting, the entire experience was both special and inspiring.

She also expressed deep gratitude to the event organizers, coaches, and crew who made the competition possible — including Cohen’s Corner, Kekoa Bacalso, Rip Curl, and the entire GromSearch team — acknowledging their hard work in creating a day of world-class surfing.

The Palm Springs Surf Club delivered perfect conditions, sunny skies, and an atmosphere filled with energy, support, and excitement. Maddie embraced it all with enthusiasm and appreciation.


Community, Support, and Acknowledgment

Competitions like this represent more than just results — they’re about community, growth, and moments shared with people who contribute to the athlete’s journey. Maddie made sure to thank the hosts who made the experience memorable — including @redtide83, @_courtneymagnusson, and @bman_alper.

She also gave a special shout-out to Chris Cote and Rosy Hodge, who brought the event to life from the booth with their energy and professionalism.

Their commentary and presence added excitement and connection for spectators and competitors alike.


Growing, Learning, and Looking Toward What’s Next

For Maddie Stanton, the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final marked an important step in her development as a competitive surfer. Events like these sharpen her technical skills, strengthen her mental game, and prepare her for future competitions across the country — and around the world.

With each event, Maddie continues to build momentum, refine her style, and prove that she’s a young athlete to watch in the women’s surf scene.


Follow Maddie’s Surf Journey

To stay updated on Maddie’s competitions, travels, training, and surf content, follow her on Instagram at @maddiestantonsurf. Her journey is just beginning — and each event is another chapter in an inspiring and unstoppable rise.

November 6, 2025
Emerging surf talent Maddie Stanton continues to build momentum on the world stage, earning an impressive 9th-place finish at the WSL Qualifying Series (QS) event in Puerto Rico . The competition brought together some of the best surfers from around the world, and Maddie showcased her power and precision in the warm Caribbean waters. “Thank you, Puerto Rico — great waves, great fishing, great food,” Maddie shared on her social media after wrapping up the event, reflecting both her gratitude and love for the island’s vibrant surf culture.
October 31, 2025
Professional surfer Maddie Stanton continues to make waves in the competitive surf scene, securing an incredible win at the USA Surfing competition held in Morro Bay, California . The victory marks a special milestone for Maddie, whose deep connection with California’s Central Coast makes this triumph even more meaningful. “This was a special win for me,” Maddie shared. “The Central Coast holds a special place in my heart — from surfing, horseback riding, and memories with friends.”
October 10, 2025
Professional surfer Maddie Stanton recently had the incredible opportunity to test the all-new PerfectSwell® wave pool at the Riyue Bay Surf Resort in Hainan, China — a groundbreaking destination designed to redefine high-performance surfing in Asia.
September 25, 2025
The waves were firing and the stoke was high as Oceanside hosted the 2025 Super Girl Surf Pro , part of the World Surf League Qualifying Series. On September 19, Maddie Stanton delivered a performance that turned heads and set the tone for the event.
August 7, 2025
Encinitas’ rising surf star Maddie Stanton has taken her talents overseas—this time to the legendary reef breaks of G-Land (Grajagan Bay) in Indonesia. Known for its long, barreling lefts and raw, untouched nature, G-Land is a dream destination for surfers chasing world-class waves—and Maddie just checked it off her list. ๏ปฟ
July 15, 2025
This past month at Lower Trestles, Encinitas’ own Maddie Stanton added another milestone to her young career. At just 15 years old, Maddie secured an impressive third place in the Girls U18 division at the 2025 Hoag USA Surfing Championships presented by Hurley.
May 15, 2025
Encinitas surf talent Maddie Stanton recently traded her home breaks for a week in one of the most legendary surf destinations on Earth — Tavarua Island, Fiji . Known as the heart-shaped island in the South Pacific, Tavarua is home to world-class waves, crystal-clear water, and the kind of tropical beauty every surfer dreams of.
March 5, 2025
When it comes to world-class waves, Hawaii’s North Shore is the ultimate proving ground. This winter, Encinitas surfer Maddie Stanton spent time on Oสปahu’s iconic stretch of coastline, experiencing firsthand why it’s called the seven-mile miracle.
December 30, 2024
December 2024 ended on a high note for Encinitas surfer Maddie Stanton , who claimed victory at the annual @sneedside event at her local break, Seaside Reef . Known for its fun, rippable waves and tight-knit surf community, Seaside has always been a special place for Maddie — making this win all the more meaningful.
November 20, 2024
In November 2024, Encinitas surfer Maddie Stanton traded California’s cool waters for the warm Caribbean vibes of Puerto Rico — and it did not disappoint. From powerful reef breaks to playful beach waves, Puerto Rico offered the perfect stage for Maddie to showcase her speed, flow, and style.