Watch out WSL, here come the Schnetler brothers

GEORGE SPORT - Like father like sons.

Mishka (12) and Maverik (6) Schnetler, two of Eden Surf Riders’ brightest young talents, are carving their paths in the surfing world.

Their dad, Dayne, is a competitive longboarder and popular figure in the Eden surf community, and by the looks of it, the apples didn’t fall far from the tree.

Their mother, Jacqui, relays how Miska’s connection with the ocean was instant. “From the moment he could walk, Mishka was drawn to the ocean.”

His dedication is starting to pay dividends as he recently qualified for and competed in the boys u.12 division at the Sea Harvest Grommet Games held at Muizenberg on March 22 and 23.

Colloquially known as the Grom Games, this grassroots surfing event that focuses on participation and development of young surfers between the ages of eight and 16, is where it all starts for aspiring surf pros in South Africa.

This was Mishka’s second go at the regional Grom Games, and while he got knocked out in the semi finals, he has his gaze firmly set on a future gold medal at this event.

Maverick Schnetler with his feet in the wax at the recent Sea Harvest Grommet Games held at Muizenberg. Photo: Craig Wilson

Meanwhile, his younger brother, Maverik made it through the Eden trials to crack the regional team and compete at the Muizenberg Grom Games in the u.8 category as a six-year-old. Defying expectations, he also finished third in his age group.