Our Coaches
Head Coach - Andrew Matthews
Andrew Matthews grew up in the less-than-mountainous topography of Yellowknife, NT. Despite this vertical challenge (the lack of mountains, not his height), he pursued a career as a freestyle snowboarding athlete–competing in Big Air and Slopestyle competitions across the world.
Since retiring from competition, Andrew has turned his passion towards giving back to the next generation of riders. After moving to Cumberland, BC, he has been coaching the freestyle program at Mt Washington for four years. Andrew loves being a part of the Coast Club and is excited to be their new Head Coach!
Coach - Api Ihaia
Hailing from New Zealand, Api brings a unique flavour and skill set to his coaching that athletes love. His background includes getting rad and competing in downhill longboarding. More recently, Api has converted a bus to his winter home, which he parks at Mount Washington
Api is one of the most laid-back individuals you'll ever meet. This may contribute to the fact that he can lay out a carve better than anyone we've ever seen.
We're stoked to have Api on our team!
Coach - Giovanni Vanzzini AKA Gio
Born and raised in Mexico, Gio grew up with a passion for the outdoors including team sports and climbing. He discovered his love for snowboarding after moving to Canada two decades ago. After cutting his teeth at Grouse Mountain during the 2010 Olympics and spending six years teaching at Whistler Blackcomb, he now calls Mount Washington home. When he's not sharing his passion for the mountains with the next generation of riders, you'll find him mountain biking, adventuring with his two boys, or serving as a first responder with Comox Fire Rescue. From natural features to park laps, Gio's technical background and adventurous spirit bring a unique energy to our coaching team!
Alumni - Founder: Buddy Shirley
Buddy established The Coast Club in 2022 when he wanted to give his athletes the opportunity to take their riding to the next level. He quickly established the Club as a reputable organization in the BC snowboarding scene with numerous Coast athletes being recognized at the BCSA snowboard events in their first season competing. In addition to getting great results, Buddy's fun-loving nature has set the tone for the Club's warm and welcoming environment. We appreciate the foundation that Buddy created here and are stoked to build on his success!
Alumni - Quinn Fogtmann
Quinn grew up riding Mt Washington and started competing on the BC slopestyle team in his teen years. After high school, he spent a few years riding Whitewater Resort while studying resort management. Quinn has put in time to perfect the craft of his riding. Just take a look at his Instagram page and you'll see what we mean... double nose grabs? Check.
Quinn has helped develop some of Vancouver Island's top talent through his coaching at VI Riders and The Coast Club. We hope to get him up for some guest coaching appearances in between his budding real estate career.
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