Introducing ASI SUP Instructor, Ethan Huff, Mexico

MEXICO. Meet Ethan Huff, ASI SUP Instructor in La Paz, BCS, Mexico. 

Growing up in Missouri, USA, Ethan has always spent time enjoying the outdoors. He discovered his passion for SUP in 2018 after purchasing his first board and realised he wanted to share this passion and pass on everything he had learnt to others, leading him on to becoming a SUP Instructor and opening a paddleboarding school, Ocean SUP Mexico.

We asked him some questions to find out more…

What is your background?
I grew up in Missouri, USA and have always enjoyed being outdoors. Although I never lived near the ocean during my earlier years I still spent many summers on lakes or rivers enjoying fishing, kayaking and many other things. I also really enjoy outdoor sports and competed in Track & Field all the way through college. 

What got you involved in the sport?
My first exposure to SUP was at a friend's lake on a cheap children’s board from Walmart. Let's just say I never stayed standing for more than a second! Later I purchased my first board after I relocated to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in 2018 and started getting involved in the growing Stand Up Paddle community there. 

Why did you become an ASI instructor?
I became an instructor because I'm very passionate about the sport and wanted to grow in my knowledge and abilities in SUP. I also have a desire to pass on what I've learned on to others in Mexico where there's not a lot of options for quality Stand Up Paddle schools. I learned about ASI through a nearby shop in Bucerías where the owner Adam offered classes. I loved the professionalism and layout of ASI and knew it was exactly what I was looking for. 

What are you doing now?
I've since relocated to La Paz, BCS, Mexico and have recently opened a Stand Up Paddle school here called "Ocean SUP Mexico" where I offer classes for locals and tourists. My desire is to create a youth SUP program here where local youth can have the opportunity to learn the sport, grow in community and enjoy their local waters. Our motto is "Learn, Paddle, Repeat."

What do you like about being an ASI instructor?
I love being a part of a larger community of SUP instructors who value quality SUP education and people. I also enjoy being able to pass on the knowledge and practical experience I've gained from ASI on to others around me.

Tell us about funny or interesting or nice situation that has happened to you with instructing?
The thing that comes to my mind is how the majority of people who come to take an intro to SUP class are usually a little intimidated and afraid. One of my most recent clients mentioned this to me and by the end of our class she was smiling and thanking me for helping her conquer her fears of trying the sport. This is why I love teaching SUP to new people and seeing them become more confident in their abilities. 

A huge thank you to Ethan for taking the time to give us some insight into life as a SUP Instructor. 
If you fancy becoming an ASI SUP Instructor like Ethan then click here to find out how to get started and make your dream job a reality!

Check out Ocean SUP Mexico 

Check out Ocean SUP Mexico on YouTube