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Career Profile
Rochelle Ballard
Professional Surfer
Job Title: Professional surfer
Employer: Sponsors: O'Neill, Swatch, Angel eyewear, Reef, JC surfboards
Education: Undergraduate: high school diploma, massage
license
1. How many years have you been competing?
Professionally for ten years and as an amateur for seven.
2. What were your greatest accomplishments in your careers?
a)
Placing fourth on the World Championship tour in 1998.
b)
Winning the world qualifying series in 1997, only women to score two perfect 10's in one heat.
c) Winning the surfer poll in 2000.
d) Winning several pro events.
Forming
IWS (International Women's Surfing) in 2000.
e)
Organizing the first ever all girls surf camp in Hawaii 2001
(Working with the kids has been more inspiring to me than anything I've ever done).
3. Have you gained any other work experience during your playing days? If so, what?
I was the female rep on the Association of Surfing Professionals, ASP, executive board for four years. I also established the
International Women's Surfing, IWS, organization in 2000 and was elected President. Being in a board position for five years,
has given me the experience and understanding in marketing, event production, writing, speaking, politics of sport, establishing a non-pofit corperation, and tv production. I also
4. What steps have you taken along the way to prepare yourself for a career after playing?
I have opened the door to a variety of positions within the surfing industry from professional organizations to corporations.
5. Do you have an updated resume?
No
6. Who has been the most influential person in your career?
My husband
7. What advice would you give current athletes about preparing themselves for a career in the future?
Finish high school and go to college. If your sport gives you the opportunity to go to college and become a professional athlete,
follow through on your interests. If you love writing, keep a journal and get involved with the media. If you love photography,
take a camera with you and learn it. Being an athlete gives you an advantage that most people don't have. You are given special privileges so take advantage of them.
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