Come and meet the team of experienced, adventurous contributors who make WaterSportsWhiz possible.
Our team lives and breathes water sports. With over 115 combined years of hands-on experience, we’re not just writers – we’re passionate kayakers, divers, kite boarders, stand up paddlers, and anglers!
We pride ourselves on being true enthusiasts who stay up to date on the latest trends and developments in the industry. We purchase and test the products we review, and use the gear we recommend
We’re here to provide you with honest, trustworthy advice based on personal experience – coming from time spent practicing what we preach. Let our decades of collective expertise guide you on your own water sport pursuits!
Our Editorial Staff
Sam
Founder, Kayak & Paddle Boarding Expert
Hey there, I’m Sam, the man behind Water Sports Whiz! I’ve been kayaking, paddle boarding, and scuba diving for more than 20 years.
Now, as a Sea Scout leader and the founder of WaterSportsWhiz, I’m on a mission to help you navigate your own aquatic adventures.
Trust me, if I can teach my dog, Sausage, and my 8-year-old son to paddle, I can show you as well!
Nessa
Senior Writer & Kayaking Expert
Hey there, I’m Vanessa, but you can call me Nessa!
As an ACA-certified instructor who has helped over 500 people learn to kayak and paddle board, I’ve earned my stripes with over two decades of hands-on experience.
I used to write for SunShineKayaking, and now I can’t wait to share my passion for water sports with you here at WaterSportsWhiz. Let’s get paddling!
Simon
Writer and Fishing Expert
Hey, I’m Simon, Sam’s brother! You’ll usually find me behind the scenes, but my work is all over WaterSportsWhiz.
I’ve been fishing since I was 8 years old. At 39, that’s over 30 years of fishing experience! I’ve turned my lifelong love into a business, Taylor’s Lead Lounge. I’ve fished waters around the globe and tested enough gear to send a sane person mad.
So, if you see me talking to myself while fishing, don’t worry – I’m just discussing tactics with the fish!”
Tim
Writer, Diving and Kite Surfing Expert
Hey, I’m Tim! I’ve been involved in water sports in some shape or form for over 25 years, getting wet and wild – quite literally.
I started as a commercial diver – but these days, you’ll mostly find me running a wake-board park in Thailand or taking on extreme kite surfing challenges. I was a part of an emergency dive rescue team, too.
So, if you’re into pushing limits like me, stick around; we’re going to have some fun!
Jim
Writer and Globetrotting Adventurer
Hey, I’m James, but feel free to call me Jimbo! I’ve spent years trotting the globe, from kayaking in remote rivers to hiking in untouched forests.
My most transformative journey was a 2018 expedition through the Amazon rain forest. I’m a trainee paddle sports instructor and a passionate advocate for nature conservation. Now, I’m stoked to share my adventures and insights with you here at WaterSportsWhiz.
Let’s explore and protect the great outdoors together!
Marketing and PR
Kayleigh
Outreach Manager
Meet Kayleigh, our brilliant outreach guru who shares our passion for water sports – and Sam’s “better half.”
She brings over a decade of marketing experience to her role behind-the-scenes at WaterSportsWhiz. Kayleigh has been instrumental in transforming our business operations.
Like Sam, she has a deep love of watersports that played a part in sparking their relationship.
Whether crafting marketing campaigns or conquering rapids in a kayak, Kayleigh approaches everything she does with passion and positivity. She’s the ultimate team player you want on your side!