The Hawaii Surf Team (HST) Junior program remains the definitive proving ground for the islands’ most elite young talent. Under a legacy that spans decades, the program continues to identify and shape the next generation of top surfers, emphasizing not just technical prowess, but the core values of community, sportsmanship, and the “Ambassador of Aloha” spirit.
The Coaches
Jason Shibata | Program Director & Head Coach
There’s hardly a moment that Jason Shibata is not wearing a smile on his face. Voted as the “Ambassador of Aloha,” in Freesurf Magazines Manulele Awards his huge competitive knowledge and adherence to the aloha spirit makes him a great teacher and mentor for Hawaii’s kids. A former Hawaii Surf Team standout and 1998 alumnus, Jason Shibata returned to lead the program in 2022, bringing with him decades of experience as a professional surfer and industry leader. During his competitive career, Jason was a mainstay for iconic brands like T&C Surf Designs and later transitioned into a pivotal role as a team manager and director for Vertra and Volcom.
As a coach, Jason is renowned for his holistic approach. While he demands high-performance results, he is equally focused on the character of his athletes. He believes that personality and sportsmanship are what truly distinguish a surfer on the world stage. Under his leadership, the team has reclaimed its position as a global powerhouse, securing multiple gold medals with individual riders over the past few years and a silver-medal team finish in 2023 and 2024.
Barak Maor | Assistant Coach
Supporting the team’s strategic development is Assistant Coach Barak Maor. With ample competitive experience and local knowledge, Maor is deeply integrated into the Hawaii surf scene, which is vital for the Hawaii Junior Team’s mission of “spreading aloha” and maintaining the legacy of Hawaiian watermen.
Tiger Abubo
(U18 Boys)
Home Break: Pine Trees, Kauai
Background: A seasoned veteran of the HST Junior program, Tiger is making his fourth team appearance. After winning bronze in Peru last year, he bypassed tryouts with an automatic seed. Known for a devastating backhand and refined rail work, Abubo is as consistent as he is powerful, capable of busting out progressive moves on command.
Kingston Panebianco
(U18 Boys)
Home Break: Ho’okipa, Maui / North Shore, Oahu
Background: A tactical asset who can handle the raw power of solid waves and though he is the tallest athlete on the squad he is cunning, quick and progressive in smaller surf as well. His ability to open heats with high scores makes him a major threat in all conditions.
Given Goodwin
(U18 Boys)
Home Break: Kepuhi Point / Haena, Kauai
Background: The son of professional surfers, Given made the team this year after three years of persistent effort. This year Goodwin showed Top form, strong moves and great strategy to make the roster. He brings a mature rail game to the squad.
Nao Clifton
(U18 Boys)
Home Break: Ewa Beach, Oahu
Background: A first-time team member, Naʻo Clifton is a solid Hawaiʻi junior competitor with strong local results, consistently ranking near the top of his age divisions.
Hayden Flores
(U16 Boys)
Home Break: Pine Trees, Kauai
Background: A 14-year-old National Champion is known for incredible speed and adaptability. His resilient work ethic in combination with his fast explosive style makes him a threat in any heat. This is his first time representing Hawaii on the world stage and don’t be surprised if this young man creates a few upsets en route to the finals.
Merrik Mochkatel
(U16 Boys)
Home Break: North Shore, Oahu
Background: Merrik Mochkatel is a young North Shore–based junior surfer from Hawaiʻi who’s been steadily coming up through the island and U.S. junior contest ranks. With a strong contest background and a solid all-around shortboard game. He’s one of the younger Hawaiʻi kids making noise in the junior ranks and already showing he can mix it up with older competitors in heavier waves.
Uilani Nakao
(U16 Girls)
Home Break: Kealia, Kauai
Background: A multi-sport athlete who brings a smooth and active style to the lineup. A straight-A student who views making the HST as the fulfillment of a primary career goal.
In His Words: “I’m proud to be representing Hawai’i. This is one of my dreams, and it’s coming true! I just can’t wait to travel with the team and surf with the world.”
Manalani Cazimero
(U16 Girls)
Home Break: Hanalei Bay, Kauai
Background: Only 12 years old and already a back-to-back State Champion. “Mana” gained massive confidence last year competing in the U18 division in Peru and is known for her stylistic power.
In Her Words: “I just really wanted to earn my spot on the team. Last year… I gained confidence in myself that I can compete with the best juniors in the world.”
Zoey Kaina
(U18 Girls)
Home Break: North Shore, Oahu
Background: One of the most decorated juniors in the program. A copper medalist from the 2025 ISA World Juniors and a WSL Pro Junior winner. Zoey is a highly strategic and explosive competitor who thrives under pressure.
Skai Suitt
(U16 Girls)
Home Break: Sunset Beach, Oahu
Background: A North Shore standout who recently claimed the Stab High Ladybirds title in Australia. Skai balances artistry with athleticism. Small in stature yet fierce in her approach Suitt has a knack for solid moves with good style. While plenty able to be consistent and put forward great scores, she is a weapon when she successfully pushes the boundaries of women’s aerial performance.
The Character: A “determined smolder of ambition,” Skai surfs because the ocean feels like home.
Leah Turner
(U16 Girls)
Home Break: Kauai
Background: A consistent podium threat with a strong vertical attack. Leah represents the immense depth of the Hawaiian girls’ program. This will be her second time making the team roster.
Elliamna Grubbs
(U16 Girls)
Home Break: Princeville, Kauai
Background: The “silent assassin” of the group. Quiet on the beach but fierce in the water, she is known for technical skill and total commitment in the lineup. Elliamna also traveled with the team last year.
