A Night of Purpose at the Waterman’s Ball

Our Community

The surf industry has always been about more than the products it creates. At its core is a shared commitment to the oceans, beaches, and waves that bring this community together. This year’s Waterman’s Ball was a powerful reminder that when the industry comes together, it can create lasting impact beyond surfing itself.

NRI was proud to sponsor and attend this year’s event, standing alongside brands, partners, and advocates who share a passion for protecting the places that inspire us all. Hosted by the Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA), the evening celebrated leaders whose work has shaped the surf community while raising critical support for ocean conservation efforts.

A Night of Purpose at the Waterman’s Ball

Honoring Those Making a Difference

Matt Biolos | Waterperson of the Year

Known throughout the industry as “Mayhem,” Matt Biolos was recognized as SIMA’s 2026 Waterperson of the Year. As the founder of Lost Surfboards, Biolos has spent decades pushing surfboard design forward while helping define modern high-performance surfing. His influence reaches from the world’s best athletes to everyday surfers, combining innovation, craftsmanship, and an unmistakable personality that has left a lasting mark on surf culture.

Greg MacGillivray | Lifetime Achievement Award

Greg MacGillivray received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of an extraordinary career in surf and documentary filmmaking. As co-founder of MacGillivray Freeman Films, his work has inspired generations to appreciate the beauty and importance of our natural world. Beginning with the iconic surf film Five Summer Stories and continuing through more than 50 large-format films, many produced for IMAX, MacGillivray has helped bring the world’s oceans, coastlines, and wild places to audiences across the globe.

Save The Waves Coalition | Environmentalist of the Year

SIMA honored Save The Waves Coalition as Environmentalist of the Year for its ongoing commitment to protecting surf ecosystems and preserving coastal access worldwide. Through advocacy, scientific research, conservation initiatives, and strategic partnerships, the organization continues to safeguard the beaches, waves, and coastlines that are central to surf culture. Their work reinforces an important truth: protecting surf breaks also protects thriving ecosystems, local communities, and the future of our oceans.

“The ocean has shaped our lives, our livelihoods, and our sense of wonder. May our gratitude be measured by what we choose to protect.”

More Than a Celebration

The Waterman’s Ball is more than an evening of recognition. It’s a gathering of people who believe the surf industry has both the opportunity and the responsibility to care for the environments that make it possible. Every conversation, every partnership, and every contribution helps strengthen that mission.

Thank you to SIMA for hosting another inspiring event, and congratulations to this year’s honorees for the incredible example they continue to set. NRI is grateful to support an organization that continues to unite the industry around environmental stewardship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to protecting our oceans for generations to come.