Early in 2026, Christian Surfers United States introduced the new CSALT director for the U.S., Chad Coons. The program is in the development phase, intending to accept its first students in the summer. Since we thought you might have some questions about the new academy, we’ve compiled a few topics to introduce you to this new program in the U.S.

What is CSALT?

Christian Surfers Advanced Leadership Training (CSALT) is an internship program for up and coming leaders within our surf communities. The mission of CSALT is to journey with young surfers in a rich blend of adventure, community and teaching. The academy will help young adults deepen their relationship with Jesus, grow as leaders and impact surfing communities across the United States.

Why is CSALT important?

CSALT is paramount to developing the faith of young adults. At a stage where they are asking big questions about their faith and discovering who they are, CSALT provides an environment where we encourage students to wrestle with the tough questions within the safety of their relationships with one another and key leaders. The goal is to help them build a thoughtful and robust Christian worldview.

Studies show that after graduating from high school, many young adults leave the Christian faith. CSALT provides an environment where young adults can be grounded in their identity in Christ, develop a personal and resilient faith, and rediscover the value of the local church and Christian community.

Is this new?

In the U.S., yes, this is a new program. Although it’s new in the United States, CSALT has existed for years in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand through Christian Surfers International. Those programs have been successful, and we will partner with them to launch a similar CSALT here. The goal is to implement a proven discipleship model that is contextualized for the U.S.

How is this different from Foundations Training?

Good question! Foundations Training is a week-long intensive young adults leadership program. This program centers on developing leaders within CS who can go back to their communities and invest in them. CSALT Academy has a similar vision of developing young leaders who will contribute long term in their local communities. However, CSALT is a live-in discipleship program structured to align with the U.S. academic calendar, with spring and fall semesters. This structure mirrors traditional timelines and enables students to participate without long-term disruptions to their education pathways.

What’s it like in a day of a CSALT student?

The academy follows a similar format to those established by CSI. It will start with prayer and devotionals in the morning, followed by lectures. The afternoons will be used for hands-on learning through serving local CS chapters, community events and partner ministries. Core curriculum will include topics on biblical narrative, spiritual formation, pastoral care, leadership development and foundational Christian doctrine.

When do applications go live?

The goal is to have applications for people to enroll in CSALT in early spring.

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