Introducing ASI SUP Instructor Calvin Wei

Calvin Tse-Hsu Wei is a stand up paddle instructor in Taipei.    In 2017, he discovered stand-up paddling (SUP) and fell in love with the sport instantly. What started as a passion quickly evolved into a competitive career as a SUP athlete.  

We find out more about Calvin’s SUP journey…

What is your background?

I was involved in international logistics and marketing in Taiwan before I discovered SUP.

I’m now an ASI SUP Instructor, a water safety training lecturer, and a SUP athlete.  I have competed in Taiwan League series, Paddle games and other competition events.  I’m also actively involved in planning and executing water sports activities.

What got you involved in the sport?

Exercise has always been an important part of my life. I used to participate in triathlons, and after learning swimming skills, I transitioned to water sports. A friend introduced me to SUP and highly recommended it. Since SUP shares similarities with surfing, I picked it up quickly and fully enjoyed the experience.

In the early days, I often stand-up paddleboarded with like-minded friends, going on long trips to explore mysterious sights. I have a deep passion for the ocean, but my love for SUP is even stronger.

Why did you become an ASI instructor?

I wanted to take my paddle skills and knowledge of water safety to a more technical level and share what I had learned. After hearing from Maggie at ASI Taiwan about the training courses available at ASI, I didn’t hesitate to sign up and become a qualified ASI instructor.

I am now eager to share and promote the knowledge I gained from the ASI courses, helping people develop professional SUP skills and make meaningful progress in their abilities.

What are you doing now?

I am currently focused on developing professional SUP talent. Recently, I established a SUP training academy where I teach athletes professional skills and provide real-world experience. I also guide both children and adults through SUP experiences while raising awareness about water safety.

What do you like about being an instructor?

As a SUP instructor, I enjoy sharing my years of teaching and competition experience. I take pride in tailoring my teaching approach to each student’s learning progress, ensuring they receive accurate concepts and proper movement guidance. Teaching requires a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, sharp observation, and effective communication—all of which I find challenging and rewarding.

Tell us about a funny, interesting, or nice situation that has happened to you while instructing.

Seeing my students thrive in various fields gives me a great sense of accomplishment. At the start of my SUP courses, I often see students who are initially afraid of the water. I teach them how to approach the water safely  and apply SUP techniques with ease.

Generally, within 30 minutes, they’re able to stand up confidently and overcome their fear of water.

The most fulfilling part of being a coach is witnessing my students' transformations.  Many students come back for more courses and love sharing their positive experiences with me.

I aim to share my knowledge, especially what I’ve learned at ASI, to inspire and empower others.

After retiring from my career as a SUP athlete, I hope to dedicate even more time to nurturing talented SUP athletes. This has become my life’s mission, and I am committed to giving my very best.

About ASI

ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding.  ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, global opportunities, and adventure.