The Wave Sliders journal
ENTRY # 033
Written By: Fletcher Scheper
We decided to give our readers a fresh take on our monthly Wave Sliders Journal.
At FARO, we're committed to evolution. The Wave Sliders Journal?
It started as a place to reflect on the intersection of surf and everyday life without any fancy BS. We wanted raw, unfiltered stories from the heart.
But here's the deal: sometimes that wide-open format missed the mark. We weren't always getting the gritty details we craved. So, we're switching gears...
For the next few months, we're hitting you with the same 7 questions. How they answer? That's on them…
This format is Inspired by the Indoek book "On Surfing" by Michael Ando and Matt Titone - Respect where it's due.
This month, we hear from Fletcher Scheper, a Virginia Beach-based longboarder, welder, and proud father. Read on to enjoy this interview-style entry with Fletcher...
Who are you?
Share a few sentences explaining who you see yourself as these days...
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My name is Fletcher some know me as Cole, I’m 33, a passionate longboard surfer, welder, and father!
My life is a beautiful blend of adrenaline, creativity, and family joy. Taking it one day at a time I’m proud to say I’m currently 6 years alcohol-free and counting, this journey has been one wild ride filled self awareness and reinventing myself, but I couldn’t be happier with where I’m at and where I’m going!
Whether I'm chasing those first light peelers, welding, or making memories with my girls, everyday is a blessing.
What was your first job?
First jobs reveal a lot about who we were.
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My journey began in the humble role of dishwasher at The Texas Ranch Steakhouse, a family-owned local gem where I earned my first paycheck and discovered a passion for the culinary world.
As I worked my way up from prep line to main line, I had the privilege of learning various cuisines and techniques in several restaurants, even taking the reins as manager in a few. However, as time passed, the thrill of the kitchen began to wane, and my heart shifted towards the blue-collar world.
I found a new sense of purpose and excitement in building things with my hands. Now I currently am a welder/fabricator building trains, and can say that I love what I do.
What have you learned through surfing that translates to everyday life?
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Surfing is an integral part of me, it’s far more than hobby or pastime, but rather a source of inspiration, motivation, and self-discovery.
It's challenging to pinpoint a single lesson, but if I had to choose, it would be the power of consistency. Whether navigating the waves or tackling life's challenges, consistent effort and dedication yield incremental progress, allowing us to improve with each passing day.
It's not about monumental leaps, but rather the cumulative effect of small, steady gains – a 1% improvement each day – that ultimately leads to growth and transformation and success.
What is something you'd like to accomplish in the next 10 years?
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In the next decade I hope to my own welding and fabrication business, where I can unleash my creativity and bring innovative ideas to life. I'm passionate about crafting unique, functional pieces like beach carts, racks, trailers, fishing towers, grills, fire pits, and whatever else I may come up with, I just want creative freedom.
Additionally, I aspire to take my surfing to new heights, earning an invitation to one of the world renowned longboard invitationals or a spot at one one of the WSL LB Tour stops, where I can surf against some of the best in the sport.
What Fletcher Is Stoked On Lately...
Someone in the surf community you are stoked on:
Nick Halleran, Dom Dente, and the entire team at MAR Surf Exchange have welcomed me into their community over the past few years, allowing me to collaborate closely with Nick.
Our discussions about innovative shapes and outlines have led to me riding equipment that not only enhances my skills but also elevates my enjoyment with every session. However, their impact extends far beyond crafting exceptional hand-shaped boards—from mini Simmons to gliders and everything in between.
They are committed to fostering a vibrant surf community here in Virginia Beach, organizing monthly gatherings for local surfers, photographers, friends, and families, as well as engaging in events beyond the waves. These initiatives truly keep the spirit and culture of surfing alive!
Photo from MAR Surf Exchange
A quote you like?
“Always be happy, never satisfied.”
Shared with me by my father, he taught me that happiness is fleeting, while satisfaction can lead to complacency.
This phrase has been a constant reminder to embrace joy while continually striving for growth and improvement.
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Another quote that has had a profound impact on my journey is “one day at a time.” Although I had heard it before, its significance didn't truly resonate with me until I attended my first AA meeting.
The power of focusing on the present moment, rather than getting bogged down by the past or future, has been a game-changer for me.
A place you want to visit that you have not been to yet?
My dream family vacation is to Indonesia, where I can indulge in world-class surfing on legendary right-hand breaks while my girls soak up the breathtaking scenery and stunning beaches.
As well as thrilling adventures like zip-lining and cliff jumping, explore scenic hiking trails, and trying the local cuisine's bold flavors. It would be the ultimate family getaway!
Follow Fletcher on IG @FCSoftheVB
Thanks for reading, ya'll! Look out for the next WAVE SLIDERS JOURNAL coming soon.
- Jack
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