A uniquely Hawaiian sport will now crown a high school state champion after the state's governing body approved surfing for interscholastic competition beginning in 2025-26.
Surfing becomes the state's 21st sanctioned sport and is in the realm of nine other unique championship events around the country listed below.
"This is a monumental day for Hawaii's student-athletes and the sport of surfing," HHSAA Executive Director Chris Chun said. "Surfing is deeply rooted in our culture and way of life, and we extend our sincere gratitude to our legendary surfers who have paved the way for this sport in Hawaii and around the world."
The inaugural HHSAA surfing state tournament will take place in the spring of 2026 and feature boys and girls shortboard championships. The Maui Interscholastic League (MIL) has been hosting competitions since 2014 and will host the first event.
While there is no written record of surfing's origin, it was first observed in Polynesia and Hawaii has become the epicenter of the surfing world.
We can't wait to see what the trophy looks like. Until then, here are nine other unique high school sporting events.
Bass fishingLouisiana is among a handful of states to sanction the sport with
Glenmora taking the title last year.
RodeoMore than 40 states sanction the sport with upward of 12,000 student-athletes participating. Started in 1949, the National High School Rodeo Association holds a national event each year.
RifleThere are more than 2,000 high school rifle programs across the country. The Minnesota State High School Clay Target League is one of the nation's largest.
CricketStill only a club sport, cricket is growing in the Midwest with a new field being built in Troy, Michigan.
FencingThere are more than 60 NJSIAA-affiliated fencing programs in New Jersey alone and nine other states that have programs.
Canoe paddlingWhile most popular in Hawaii, there are high school canoe paddling programs in states as far-flung as Florida, Virginia and Wisconsin.
Skiing/snowboardingWhether in the mountains of the Rockies, the west coast or the New England states, preps can compete in a handful of disciplines.
ArcheryLike shooting, archery is sanctioned in numerous states and the National Archery in Schools Program holds a national championship each year.
eSportsNFHS sanctioned, it's more than "just playing video games." Governed competitions encourage teamwork, communication and critical-thinking skills.
RoboticsTexas, Connecticut and Minnesota have sanctioned it as a varsity sport. A great skill to have in the computer-driven 21st Century, it's now something you can earn a letter in as well.
