History

Tom started surfing in the mid 60's and shaped his first board in 1967, a 9' 10" noserider.

He glassed it with his brother Gordie & that was the beginning of Rise Surfboards. Friends started asking and the business began to grow. Boards were made in their parent's basement at first, but moved to the 3-car garage as orders increased.  

After 2 seasons in the garage, it was  clear that a larger facility was needed. So, Tom opened a factory with a retail showroom in Long Branch. He had a talented crew working there, Scott Thompson, Joe Schluter, Paul Mindnich, Craig Sprenger & Steve Walker.

The 70's were a fantastic period of change and growth for surfing. Board designs were all over the map and serious surf exploration began. However, the winters are long in NJ and business would typically drop off to next to nothing until spring.  So, Tom sold the factory in 1979 and began shaping for other labels to keep current; Island Style, Ocean Rhythm, Water Borne, Atlantic Coast, Cosmic Bull, SuperB, Lucky Dog, and most recently TE.

Versatility is what keeps Tom active now. From wake surf to fish, mid-length to longboard and SUP, they are all designed for one thing - fun.

--A thought to remember, stay connected with the water and keep our oceans safe!