A team of IKO Examiners launched in 2022 the International Wingfoil Organization (IWO), which is dedicated to teaching and training wingfoil enthusiasts and wingfoil instructors. Among them is Daniele Olivieri, a seasoned watersports expert with over 20 years of experience and the founder of KTS Tarifa. Daniele shared insights into the world of wingfoiling, the mission of the IWO, and what it takes to become a wingfoil instructor.
The Journey to Wingfoiling
Daniele's journey into wingfoiling began in spring 2019, inspired by none other than Robby Naish during a dealer meeting in Tarifa. “Robby Naish inspired me to learn this great watersport,” Daniele recalls. His passion was further fueled when F-ONE released the first wing gear, which he tested in Mauritius in August 2019. Since then, Daniele's dedication to the sport has only grown, leading to remarkable experiences. “One of my best wingfoil experiences was in Jericoacoara, Brazil, where I surfed long, clean, gentle waves. It’s incredible how smooth it is gliding on the foil by the wave's energy.”
The Birth of the IWO
The creation of the IWO stems from a desire to enhance the wingfoil community through shared knowledge and standardized teaching methods. The IWO, an initiative by the IKO, aims to make wingfoiling more accessible and safer for everyone. “The IWO was born to help and educate the wingfoil community,” Daniele explains. The organization focuses on creating safety procedures and teaching standards that benefit both enthusiasts and instructors.
Life as an IWO Examiner and Wingfoil Instructor
Being an IWO Examiner and wingfoil instructor is a unique and fulfilling role for Daniele. It combines his passion for wing riding with the joy of teaching others. “In the last two years, I have improved my skills as a wing instructor and now share all my passion and knowledge with students and new instructors,” he says. The greatest reward for Daniele is witnessing his students' progress and enthusiasm. “My greatest satisfaction is seeing how students learn and enjoy their wing lessons and having the capacity to train future instructors.”
Becoming a Professional Wingfoil Instructor
If you're passionate about wingfoiling and dream of becoming a professional instructor, the IWO offers a comprehensive pathway to achieve your goals. Becoming an IWO Instructor involves a well-structured training program designed to ensure you gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The training includes understanding wingfoil equipment, safety procedures, and effective teaching techniques tailored to various student levels.
By completing the IWO Instructor Training, you'll join a global network of certified professionals committed to maintaining high standards in wingfoil education. This certification not only enhances your credibility but also opens doors to numerous opportunities within the watersports industry.
Learn More and Get Started
For more detailed information on the steps to becoming an instructor, visit the IWO's Become an Instructor page. Here, you can find everything you need to know about the instructor courses, requirements, and the benefits of joining the IWO community.
Join Daniele in one of his pro courses in the famous spot of Tarifa! Find all courses already schedule here or contact the school to request additional dates.
