"I Just Want to Surf"

Sitting in front of me is our next surfing genius from the 'Nalu. A super-hot surfer with superior talent, a Dane, a Michael, a Kahea and now a Koa-Boy. Kekoa Cazimero, twelve years but surfing far beyond his age. Simple words from Jack Shipley; "this kid is the real deal." Then Jack continues, "Kekoa is a very special athlete with exceptional skills, his tail throwing ability is electric."

Keep in mind that Kekoa is already "somebody". The media predicts greatness. His sponsors are investing in his future. It seems like a done deal.

"How do you handle so much pressure?" I ask. "I don't feel pressure," Kekoa responds.
"No way," I say, as I push for a better answer, "you must feel pressured to win."
"Honest, I don't," Kekoa exclaims with a huge smile on his pre-teen face, "I just want to surf!"

Kekoa goes on to describe the thoughts, feelings, and actions that allow him to do well in school and still surf at his best. Here are his coaching points:

Kekoa on school: "I'm on the honor roll because I do the work and enjoy the results. I don't love school, but I can make it fun. I plan to graduate from St. Louis School."

Kekoa on winning: "I surf for myself, not to impress. In a contest, I just do my best and let the results come."

Kekoa on improving: "I practice hard in difficult and junk conditions, that way my skills stay sharp and I can shine when the waves are good."

Kekoa on mental toughness: "In the water, I work at being calm and confident, relaxed and ready. On land, I set really high standards for myself. I practice visualizing surfing way beyond my ability."

Kekoa on reality: "If I continue to work hard and stay focused, I will have fun, do well, feel good about myself, and my life."

In short, the kid seems to be blessed. A loving family, a private school education, a great future in surfing and the attitude that he expects to succeed.

Keep it Simple: Expectations can be the path to success or the distractions that end a career. Kekoa is dedicated to his path. He will stay stoked and inner-directed: he will stay present when he surfs and clear about his expectations, he will accept the challenges and be aware of the risks, and he will have fun and find the value from his efforts. That's Hilevel!