The Kirk Cottrell Pavilion

Last year the City of Deerfield Beach announced the remodel of the North Beach Pavillion. For years, this has been the main location where we have used for our free surf lesson program and camps.

Kirk G. Cottrell, the original founde of Island Water Sports, passed away in 2001 during a surfing accident in South Africa.

Cottrell, who owned IWS, was also a pastor. He was very involved in the community and even ran for the mayor of Deerfield Beach. In 1997 he and his family moved to Cape Town to start a church. He planned to live there indefinitely. But, while Cottrell was living on the other side of the Atlantic, IWS employees say Cottrell was always there if anyone needed him.

Cottrell was a well-known figure within the surf community. 

“In his own way he was a pioneer,” says Lost President Joel Cooper.”He was like the heart of surfing for 30 years. After being such an aggro guy in his youth, he became a father figure for many young surfers — both in Florida and in South Africa.”

He was loved by many. We are so happy that the City of Deerfield Beach has decided to continue to share his legacy with future generations through this project. Construction is expected to last 10 months with the New pavilion opening to the public in August of 2020.

The Kirk Cottrell Pavilion redevelopment project is the final component of Beach Enhancements in the CRA Plan. The project includes upgrades in support of beach sporting and leisure events including expanded bathroom facilities, a customer service counter, an interactive digital kiosk screen, ocean rescue storage, new showers, special facilities to store and wash surfboards and pavilion amenities for passive enjoyment of the beach. The facility includes sustainable features such as a green roof that will cool the facility and increase onsite landscaping as well as an underground cistern to collect onsite storm water. The project will include a public art component with a surfboard theme.

GROUNDBREAKING

Last weekend, the official groundbreaking took place with the Cottrell family pitching in to honor their father.

(From Left to Right) Kathy Cottrell, Lisey Cottrell, Curren Cottrell, June Cottrell and Cheyn Cottrell.

The official groundbreaking with the Cottrell family and Deerfield Beach City Officials for the new Kirk Cottrell Pavilion.

Kirk's mother June who still is involved with Island Water Sports today.