The Aliso Niguel High School surf team closed out it’s 2025 season with an impressive showing at League Finals, held on Nov. 12 and Nov. 19 at Trestles Beach and Salt Creek Beach. With strong individual performances, standout heats and consistent teamwork, the Wolverines ended their competitive year on a high note.
This year’s League Finals highlighted the depth and determination of Aliso Niguel’s athletes. All six shortboard qualifiers advanced from their quarterfinal heats into the semifinals. The qualifiers included Ryder DeMichele (9), Guarin Bruni (12), Zeke Gonzalez (12), Porter Ellsworth (12) Luke Schiber (12) and West Maxon, grade 12. Senior captain Zeke Gonzalez also placed fifth in longboard.
Beyond results, the surf team is known for its close bond and supportive culture. Surfers push one another through early practices, changing conditions and the pressures of competition. Many athletes describe the team as a supportive community built around friendship and a shared love of the ocean.
Maddy Chao (12) stood out throughout the season and during League Finals. She earned first place in both longboard and shortboard. In the shortboard division, she scored a 9 out of 10 on one of her waves to secure the win. Chao trains year-round to stay competitive and is known for her dedication both in and out of the water.
“Since surfing was a hobby before doing it as a sport, it’s always been something that I enjoy doing and being on the team motivates me to do my best,” Chao said.
Gonzalez served as a captain and mentor during the season and in the off-season. Along with his performance at League Finals, he helped guide the team through competitions and strategies.
“As an athlete and the captain of the surf team I have helped guide the team into competitions and help them strategize the best positions. Training in the off season is surfing every other day constantly no matter the conditions. We always practice and always give it our all,” Gonzalez said.
Freshman Ryder DeMichele also made an impact at League Finals. He won first place in shortboard by a margin of only 0.5 points and earned the title of Capistrano Coast League boys champion. His success highlights the strength of the team’s younger athletes and signals a promising future for the program.
“My favorite part about being on the surf team is all of the friends I have made and that we get breakfast after a good surf session,” Chao said.
Aliso Niguel’s surf team did an amazing job representing the school and worked hard to be at the level they train at. With memorable performances, strong finishes and a close-knit team culture, the Aliso Niguel surf team wrapped up its 2025 season with pride and momentum for the year ahead.
