Tom Carroll – The Power Pocket Master
“Compact, Explosive, Unstoppable”
🌊 Basic Info
Full Name: Thomas Victor Carroll
Nickname: Tom, TC
Born: November 26, 1961 – Newport, New South Wales, Australia
Nationality: Australian
Surfing Stance: Goofy
Favorite Surf Spots: Pipeline, Sunset Beach, Bells Beach, Narrabeen
🏆 Career Highlights
Championships & Titles:
2× World Champion (1983, 1984)
3× Pipe Masters Champion (1987, 1990, 1991)
Inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame – first surfer to receive the honor
Notable Competitions:
Pipe Masters, Bells Beach Classic, Op Pro
Was part of the historic rivalry between Australia and the rising American surf movement in the 80s
Best Performances:
1991 Pipe Masters – scored two perfect 10s in flawless barrels
1984 season – sealed his second world title with an unmatched level of consistency and raw power
His 1980s power hacks on the face of Sunset and Bells became a blueprint for generations to follow
Signature Moves:
One of the most powerful backhand surfers of all time
Known for squatty, low center-of-gravity carves and deep tube commitment
Redefined how to attack steep, critical sections – especially on his backhand at Pipeline
🏄♂️ Surfing Style & Equipment
Board Preferences:
Longtime rider of Simon Anderson and later Jim Banks boards
Often on thicker, shorter boards for extra control in heavy water
Wetsuit & Gear:
Sponsored by Quiksilver through much of his career
Also backed by Red Bull and GoPro during his later years as a big wave charger
Training & Fitness:
Revolutionized fitness in pro surfing – one of the first to train like an elite athlete
Incorporated weights, cardio, balance training, and yoga before it became standard
Wave Preferences:
Thrived in heavy reef breaks – Pipeline was his playground
Loved power waves where he could engage the rail and let loose
🌍 Life Beyond Surfing
Hobbies & Interests:
Big wave surfer post-retirement – surfed massive waves at Shipstern Bluff and Teahupo’o
Enjoys meditation, art, and giving motivational talks
Social Causes:
Strong advocate for mental health, addiction recovery, and ocean preservation
Open about his recovery journey and now mentors others on the same path
Fun Facts:
Turned down a $1 million deal with a rival surf brand in the 80s to stay with Quiksilver – loyalty over money
Was one of the most physically dominant surfers of his time despite his shorter stature
Starring role in Storm Surfers 3D, documenting his post-tour big wave missions with Ross Clarke-Jones
🎥 Photos & Videos
Watch Storm Surfers and classic Pipe Masters footage for TC in beast mode
His backside barrels at Pipeline still hold up against modern surfers
📢 Latest News & Updates
In 2025, Tom Carroll continues to speak at surf events and mental health forums across Australia
Recently featured in a new documentary series on Aussie surf legends
Still surfs big waves on occasion and works closely with surf therapy and addiction recovery groups
