The Strength to Speak Out

Following serious allegations involving professional surfer Al Cleland Jr., Noah Klapp's decision to share her experience has prompted an outpouring of support across surfing. SurfGirl reflects on the courage it takes to speak out and the responsibility we share in creating a safer future for women in our sport.

The surfing world has been confronted with deeply troubling allegations involving Championship Tour surfer Al Cleland Jr.

Following the World Surf League's announcement of his provisional suspension, Cleland's former girlfriend, professional surfer Noah Klapp, publicly shared her account of alleged physical, sexual and psychological abuse during their relationship.

Beyond the headlines is something that deserves our attention: the courage it takes to speak publicly about such deeply personal and traumatic experiences.

In her statement, Noah described years of silence, fear of not being believed and the emotional weight of speaking out. Her words will resonate with women within surfing and far beyond it who have faced similar fears.

The response from the surfing community has been powerful, with fellow surfers publicly expressing their support. It's a reminder of the strength of our community when we stand together, listen and refuse to look away from difficult conversations.

Every woman deserves to feel safe, respected and supported, both in and out of the water.

Surfing is built on freedom, connection and community. Those values must extend beyond the waves and into how we treat one another. Talent, success or status should never place anyone beyond scrutiny or accountability.

Speaking out can come at an enormous personal cost. Those who choose to share their experiences deserve compassion, dignity and support.

Noah was incredibly brave to speak out as it’s never easy to talk about these sort of situations. She started dating Alan Cleland when she was 17 years old and says she suffered abuse throughout most of their relationship.

Noah begins her statement by saying, “it is time for me to speak out publicly, I once told Alan Cleland that if I ever found out about another victim I would share my whole truth about our relationship.” So far Noah kept this matter private but then she says, “I turned 23 today and woke up to the news of sexual assault allegations against him and other men towards an underage girl.” This inspired Noah to speak up as her duty to others who deserve all the support they need and because “he was already given a second chance he didn’t deserve and proved that he is still rotten inside.”