Underrated: Jon Modica

Oct 10, 2008

Author: Damien LeRoy, Tracy Kraft photo

Jon Modica—where do I start? Jon is, no question in my mind, the best strapless trick rider I’ve ever seen. Every time I see the guy he has a new trick, transition or something that is so unique with his surfboard it blows my mind. He has a great gift for inventing moves, which is hard to come by these days. Most kids copy tricks from others, but he creates them. Don’t count him out with freestyle either; he still can do all the new-school handlepass stuff, but he does it with a smooth, flowing style.
    Jon is quite the ladies’ man off the water—if only some of that could rub off in my direction. Jon’s personality is the first thing you see when you meet him in person. He will go above and beyond to make sure you’re enjoying your day. He’ll make sure you have the right kite in your hands and take time to answer your questions.
    I’m honoured to have Jon as a friend, and I always look forward to the next time we get to share a session on the water. He is not underrated anymore. Congrats, kid. He will be big—very big—so watch out for Jon Modica. We call him lover boy. —Damien LeRoy

Shelter Island, New York, local and Florida transplant Jon Modica is one of the best kiteboarders the East Coast has produced. He won the surf division at this year’s Triple-S in Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Kraft photo

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