We’re stoked to introduce you to Julie Martin, our fantastic Director of BeachSports Redondo Beach! Julie is a South Bay native who spent her youth attending BeachSports camp and brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the beach each day. When she’s not on the beach, she’s in the classroom finishing up her Masters in Teaching at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, and as a former NCAA softball player – she knows the importance of dedication and hard work.
We recently caught up with Julie to learn more about her background, what she’s looking forward to this summer, her favorite place in the world, and more. Read on to find out!
Hi Julie! First off, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in Redondo Beach, and moved to San Francisco to study Fashion and to play NCAA DII softball for the Academy of Art University. I got really lucky to be able to study my two passions in college, being that AAU is the only art school in the NCAA. After getting experience teaching and working with kids I decided to return to AAU for my Masters in Teaching and Teaching Credential. I have one year left of this degree, and hope to utilize my experience in sports, art, and education as I become a teacher and leader to the next generation!
How long have you been working with BeachSports?
This is my first summer working for BeachSports! Although, I grew up attending and loving BeachSports, so I already have a strong connection to this program and Redondo Beach.
What are you most looking forward to as Redondo Beach Camp Director?
I’m looking forward to being back in my hometown and one of my favorite places in the world, the beach. But most importantly, I can’t wait to interact with the coaches and campers to make sure that everyone is having a fun and positive experience! As the director, I hope to utilize my experience as a camper, as well as the leadership skills I’ve obtained since moving to San Francisco to facilitate an enriching program for everyone.
What’s your favorite beach activity?
My favorite beach activity is swimming in the ocean. I’ve been in Northern California for about 10 years now, and people are always surprised when I brave the colder waters. It’s so hard for me to go without the ocean, so I had to purchase a wetsuit to swim during the really cold months. This past year I’ve also really wanted to get back into surfing, so I hope to get that opportunity this summer.
What are you most excited for this summer on the beach?
I’m most excited to be a part of helping our campers learn new skills! I remember when I was a surf camper growing up, and I’ll never forget the first time I rode a wave after paddling out with everyone. I look forward to being on the other end now, and giving back to our campers and the Redondo Beach community in the best way possible!
Where’s your favorite place in the world?
This is a really tough question, because there are so many places I love! But if I have to choose, I would say Barcelona. I’ve been lucky enough to visit a couple of times with my family and I completely fell in love with the culture, art, and architecture. It’s an amazing walking city, with so much to see, and the food is also incredible!
What’s your secret talent that no one knows?
I’m really good at ping pong! Not many people know this because I don’t get the opportunity to play often, but a friend of mine had a ping pong table in high school and we took it very seriously! I always think it’s funny when people just want to play for fun now and they are surprised when my competitive side comes out.