ABOUT THIS EPISODE
GameDay RX #10
This podcast episode (Rhody Strength Podcast #121) features Sid Abbruzzi, a legendary figure in the Rhode Island surf and skate community and owner of the iconic shop Waterbrothers.Sid discusses the history of his shop, from its early days on the beach in the late 70s to their current, unique constructed shop location in Middletown with the @kirbyperkins team.Sid details his integral role in creating the world-class indoor facility Skater Island in Middletown, which famously appeared in the @tonyhawk Pro Skater video game. He also reflects on the early days of building backyard ramps and the local surf-skate culture, which he likens to the Dogtown scene.Sid shares the story behind the documentary @waterbrotherfilm : The Sid Abbruzzi Story, which involved digitizing two physical miles of his personal film archives from the 60s and 70s to preserve local skate & surf history.The conversation covers the legal battles to keep the famous Ruggles surf break accessible and the efforts to protect the reef from destructive construction projects.Sid discusses his lifelong commitment to sports, his father’s (Lou Abbruzzi) career in professional NFL football (The Boston Yanks) who was also signed by the MLB (Detroit Tigers) , and who was a long time coach at Rogers Vikings . His uncle (Pat Abbruzzi) who played for URI Football was drafted by the NFL (Baltimore Colts) and then played 10 years in the CFL with Montreal Alouettes . And also his uncle (Jim Abbruzzi) who was a professional boxer in Providence. He talks about his recovery from double hip surgery, and his ongoing passion for surfing and staying active at nearly 75 years old.Was truly an honor to get Sid on the podcast. Special thanks to Sid & Danielle for making this one happen.
