Beach Training Signals New Momentum
The Rip City Surf soccer club, based in Panama City, Florida, is gearing up for its upcoming season with a series of beach training sessions that promise to blend rigorous conditioning with the unique dynamics of sand play.
Guided by head coach Jona Hammond, the workouts are open to any local soccer player who wants to sharpen skills, improve fitness, and experience the camaraderie of training on the shoreline.
Hammond emphasizes that the sand adds an extra layer of resistance, forcing athletes to engage core muscles and balance in ways that traditional grass fields do not.
The sessions, which run several times a week leading up to the first competitive matches, are designed to be inclusive, welcoming beginners and seasoned amateurs alike.
Club matches are scheduled to kick off in early August, marking the start of a season that will see the team face off against regional opponents and participate in statewide tournaments.
Adding to the excitement, several of the club’s standout players have already earned spots on national youth squads within the broader ‘Surf’ soccer brand, showcasing the club’s growing reputation.
Local officials and parents have praised the initiative for providing a healthy, community‑focused alternative to indoor training, especially during the hot summer months.
As the sun sets over the Gulf, the sound of cleats on sand becomes a familiar rhythm, signaling that Rip City Surf is not just preparing for a season — it’s building a lasting culture of sport in Panama City.