MEET THE ROOKIE: Francisca ‘Kika’ Veselko – Dreamt she would qualify this year, Growing up in Carcavelos, Thoughts on the EURO FORCE on tour, World Junior Champion, & Mindset on approaching the CT as a rookie
About this episode
Francisca ‘Kika’ Veselko discusses her journey to qualifying for the Championship Tour and her preparations as a rookie surfer.
Francisca 'Kika' Veselko joins Joe Turpel on MEET THE ROOKIE just weeks before her Championship Tour debut, reflecting on the years of persistence that led to her long-awaited qualification. Born in California but raised in Portugal’s powerful beachbreaks at Carcavelos, Kika grew up in a surf-driven family and developed her all-conditions approach early. She shares how her mother inspired her path, and how competing between Europe and California helped shape her belief that she could reach the highest level. After four full seasons grinding on the Challenger Series, Kika opens up about the setbacks, the growth, and the adjustments that finally clicked, including refining her routines, working on consistency, and leaning on the confidence from her World Junior title. She also reflects on the moment she officially qualified, discovering the news while in Hawaii and realizing a lifelong dream. Kika discusses working closely with longtime coach Rodrigo Souza, who has guided her since childhood, and how their partnership will continue into her rookie CT season. She also breaks down her equipment preparation with DHD Surfboards, managing logistics for the demanding tour schedule, and…
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