Interview with Jean Ferreira
By Vinny Agusta

Jean, what was the first thing that went threw your head when you where officially crowned Atlantic Bodyboarding Association Champion?

I am glad with my first title in the United States, after that a lot of people became more familiar with my board and web site www.jeanferreira.com.

What are some of the main differences between body boarding media coverage in Brazil compared to the United States?

The television company’s in Brazil support big body boarding events, and always have them as a feature program. Brazil has one major magazine, and great web sites promoting the sport. The United States has to major Magazines, and a new one coming on the way. America has great web sites as well, and online magazines. The only thing the United States can improve on is TV support for BodyBoarding.

Who are the major inspirations in your life?

My Mother and Father are a major part of my life for sure. People who inspire me in BodyBoarding are Mike Stewart, he rides the huge waves and barrels. Also Tamega and Hubb for doing sick maneuvers in awesome waves.

When you got your first sponsorship, can you remember that moment and how you felt?

I got my first sponsor in my first year into BB(1988), I was very happy because the guys paid my entry-forms in my first year in competitions. A year later they gave me some tickets and more support.

What made you feel like professionally competing in bodyboarding, and what pushed you to get you where you are today?

My first event as a professional Bodyboarder was in 1993 Brazilian Tour. Every thing changes when u decide to turn pro. We have to concentrate all in one division, but after I got my signature board I felt great like a part of the industry.

When it is all said and done, what would you like to have accomplished in BodyBoarding?

I came from a country where Bodyboarding is very popular. They are doing a national tour and also each state has there own tour as well. Bodyboarding competitions are so important in Brazil than free ride.

If you could pick out one event you competed in, what would be your most memorable?

When I beat Ryan Hardy in the Jenks Pro 2005. For sure will be my first time competing in Pipe and Honolua this December 2005, and next January 2006.

One word that describes you best?

Love

Being a 5 Times Overall Pro Champion in Paraiba State in Brazil, how do you use that status to help promote the sport of body boarding?

I'm a competitor, I like Bodyboarding competitions, I like to show people how important it is for the Bodyboarding industry.

Jean being a top bodyboarder in Brazil and the United States most be real stressful, and most of the time you pick up a board you are competing or promoting the sport. How do you just leave all of that pressure behind, and just peace?

I like to work out everyday, except Sundays(I have mass at the Saint Patrick Cathedral). I'm into in Capoeira too, this help me to keep my equilibrium in my life. Also when I am not competing, I just like to take my board out and have some fun with the waves.

What was your scariest moment while body boarding?

When I was out in Pipeline 2001 and the set came, I felt my heart pulse very very fast.

Worm, Crystal Coast BodyBoarding Administrator Asked “For someone who might be thinking about moving to NY, what is the bodyboard scene like?”

Looks good, just bring the full suit, gloves, socks and hood and enjoy the best waves in the east coast.

Renato Scarpatti Asked “What’s better, Brazilian women or the waves?”

Both are very hot and make u happy.