A Santa Cruz surfing icon has died. Robert Thomas Scott, known affectionately as “Doc,” passed away at Dominican Hospital. He was 97 years old.
Doc was a man of medicine, dedicating his life to serving others from his time as a medic during WWII, to a private practice in Santa Cruz. But he also was a dedicated surfer. Among his contributions to the sport, Doc sponsored competitions, helped establish competitive surfing bodies still around today, was an environmental advocate, and developed ProPlugs to combat surfer’s ear.
Upon the news of his passing, the tributes began trickling in.
In the Santa Cruz Sentinel, Doc’s surfing laurels were remembered:
“Upon moving to Santa Cruz in 1969, his passion for surfing held no bounds. A philanthropist for the sport he cherished, Doc sponsored surfing contests worldwide… Always accompanied by his loving wife Janice, the couple visited and surfed destinations around the globe. He will be remembered for his generosity and his compassion for helping and healing his fellow man. Doc surfed until he turned 80, and was the inventor of 'Doc’s Proplugs' used by professional surfers, divers, and musicians, and sold by ENT’s around the world…Doc helped establish and served as President of the International Surfing Association, as well as the Western Surfing Association.”
Among his influence on surfer’s health and competition, Doc was also an environmental advocate. From the Santa Cruz chapter of the Surfrider Foundation:
“Doc Scott helped pass the ‘Environmental Branch’ in 1976, which would go on to become the Surfrider Foundation. His dedication to protecting our coasts and improving the sport for future generations has left a lasting legacy.”
Per Hotline Wetsuits, the flamboyant neoprene operation out of Santa Cruz, which was founded by Doc’s daughter and former World Tour competitive surfer, Brenda Scott, they’re asking for submissions from folks touched by Doc – “whether it’s a quick story, a surf session, or a moment he made a difference in your life.” Submissions can be sent to docstoked@gmail.com.
A memorial paddle-out will be held at 10:00am on Monday, June 30th at Pelton Avenue in Santa Cruz.
Rest in peace, Doc.
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