NFL Star Raheem Mostert Grew Up Surfing the Shark Bite Capital of the World

Dashel Pierson
·2 min read
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On the field, Raheem Mostert is known as a lightning fast running back.

But before he entered the NFL, and dedicated his life to football, Mostert grew up surfing. And he did so in the shark bite capital of the world, New Smyrna Beach, FL.

Speaking more about that surfing upbringing, and the shark situation at his home spot, Mostert recently appeared on The Lineup podcast with Dave Prodan.

“Honestly, it was the community [that got me started in surfing,” Mostert said. “It was a group of guys, one being Evan Geiselman. Me and him are the same age; we went to school together. We hit it off and became really good friends. And then, of course, I was introduced to his brother, Eric, and their dad. I saw what they were doing, and being from New Smyrna, you’re always going to be going towards the beach anyway. Once you gravitate towards the beach, you see surfing, and you’re catching a wave, like myself.”

As for Mostert’s inherent athleticism, did that help with his surfing?

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A post shared by Raheem Mostert (@raheemmostert)

“It took me a little bit to raise up off the board,” he said. “But once I got it down, I feel like it was a little bit easier since I am a little more athletic than a normal human being. I started getting better, and next thing I know Billabong reached out to me, and they offered me a contract to surf for them.”

Clearly, Mostert didn’t go the pro (or sponsored) surfer route. Instead, he went to Purdue University, then now, plays for the Miami Dolphins.

Related: Watch: Mick Fanning Fumbles a Wavepool Football Pass

But how ‘bout them sharks?

“Every time I go into the water in New Smyrna, it puts you on edge.”

Plus, being the offseason, the Dolphins don’t want their star running back getting attacked; so, unfortunately, he won’t be surfing any time soon.

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