Dr. Dion Mattison, PhD

Professional Surf Coach | Philosopher | Plant-Based Nutrition Specialist

HOLISTIC SURF DEVELOPMENT

I coach surfers who understand that everything you do affects your surfing—how you sleep, what you eat, how you move, how you think, and how you approach challenges both in and out of the water.

Whether through membership tiers that keep you progressing year-round, intensive experiences that accelerate your development, destination trips that expand your wave knowledge, or targeted one-off sessions (in-water or virtual), my coaching adapts to meet you where you are while pushing you toward where you want to be.

The goal isn't just better waves—it's becoming a better surfer. Someone who approaches the ocean with knowledge, confidence, and style. Someone who understands that every choice either adds to or subtracts from your surfing. This holistic approach means you're always progressing, regardless of conditions or circumstances.

MY BACKGROUND

Born in Monterey, California in 1980, I've been surfing since I was one year old. My academic journey includes a BA in Religious Studies from UC Berkeley, an MA and PhD in Philosophy from The New School for Social Research, and certification in Plant-Based Nutrition from the T. Colin Campbell Institute at Cornell University.

For over 20 years, I've developed expertise in every aspect of surfing practice—from wave forecasting and board design to surf-specific fitness regimens and performance nutrition. My approach integrates the philosophical concept of conatus (the vital force within all existence that strives to persist and flourish) with cutting-edge coaching methodologies.

Based at Rockaway Beach, NY, I coach surfers worldwide through intensive programs, international surf trips, and my exclusive club membership model.

THE CONATUS APPROACH

Conatus represents the vital force within all existence that drives us to persevere and flourish, no matter the obstacles we face.

This philosophy manifests differently in each kind of phenomenon. In human beings, it appears as our drive for homeostasis and flourishing. We never fully achieve complete or perfect homeostasis and flourishing, but we can experience it in glimpses by engaging in activities that increase our powers for agency and human freedom.

Surfing becomes a pathway to strengthen your conatus—building the physical, mental, and spiritual resilience to thrive both in the ocean and in life. The key is knowing the difference between what increases and what diminishes your vital force, then learning from those with more experience in whatever realm you're trying to navigate.

"I came to CSC with very minimal surf experience. After a handful of lessons, and many conversations, I couldn't give higher praise to CSC. My lessons with Dion covered all the foundations of surfing, both in and out of the water. I've learned how to read swells, winds, and weather patterns, which has been extremely helpful. Inside the water, I've learned how to read waves, timing, balance, paddling technique and all the basics I needed to continue practicing between lessons. Dion and CSC are always helpful even after the sessions, helping me find gear, reading material etc. Five stars all around."

-- Zeke S.

HOW I COACH

MEMBERSHIP TIERS

Ongoing coaching relationships that keep you progressing year-round. From weekly Zine tips to fully custom SurfReady365 programming.

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INTENSIVES

Week-long immersive experiences in New York. Accelerated development through focused, transformative periods.

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DESTINATION TRIPS

International coaching experiences in world-class surf destinations. Expand your wave knowledge and skills.

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ONE-OFF SESSIONS

Targeted in-water or virtual coaching sessions. Perfect for when conditions align or you need specific guidance.

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WHAT ATHLETES SAY

"I learned more in one session with Dr. Dion than in three months on my own and with a surf school I will not mention."

-- Hialy G.

"Dion is a great instructor. His passion for surfing is infectious. He has a huge knowledge of the sport, ranging from practical guidance to surfing history and culture."

-- Erica T.

"My surf retreat with Dion allowed me to make tremendous improvement to my surfing in just 5 days... I returned home with a lot of motivation to progress my surfing and put into practice all that I learned."

-- Katie T.

"I heard your voice MANY times while surfing in Costa Rica. There was one distinct wave where your words guided me... It was like you were right out there too, reminding me, 'You have more time than you think you do...'"

-- Bonnie

"My morning lesson with Dion was radically different and worth every penny... I came away feeling like I'd learned a huge amount from a master instructor who cares passionately about teaching the culture, ethics, techniques, and joy of the sport."

-- John

IN THE MEDIA

The New York Times

When Surfing Rockaway, It's Watch Out or Wipeout

March 16, 2018

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The New York Times

Surfing, Remade in the Rockaways

December 22, 2018

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The New York Times

Jonesa Wetsuits: Surfing Shane Jones

July 28, 2023

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Surf Continuum Podcast

Featured Guest Interview

Philosophy, Surfing & Coaching

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Swell Season Surf Radio

Dr. Dion Mattison Interview

Amazon Music Podcast

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