Huntington Surf and Sport: HSS, which sits in prime position for access to the best waves and talent Huntington has to offer, did everything in their power in search of a finals birth in 2006. And they found one. With an extremely solid roster led by Brett Simpson, this shop finished just a few points behind National Champions Sunrise, and a half-point behind runner-up Revolution in the National Finals. They’ve clearly got what it takes, now they need to put the pieces together if they want to reach greater heights.

Jack’s Surfboards: Blending local knowledge with local talent, this team is always one to keep an eye on. Located at the base of the Huntington Pier, year-round waves give them the perfect training ground, as well as a deep talent pool with which to draw the best of what North Orange County has to offer. Last year, they finished a disappointing fourth in the Southwest Regional division, behind HSS, Froghouse, and Laguna Surf and Sport. But don’t be surprised if they return to competition in 2007 reinvigorated and with their eye on a berth in the National Finals.

Froghouse: Led last year by competitive veterans David Giddings and Richie Collins, Froghouse barely survived their first heat in the Southwest Regional Qualifiers. But drawing on the experience of its two mainstays, the team pulled it together and eventually finished runner-up behind HSS. Now, in 2007, they’ll try to do themselves one better, and steal the show in the process.