"Keppler got me started by getting me on my first photo trip ever. When I was 13 we went to Hawaii... And because of that trip, I got my first ads, with Body Glove and Volcom. Having Keppler take me on my first trip gave me a world view of the people in surfing, and I was very humbled by it... I am still humbled to this day. The waves, for number one, the power and sheer intensity. Also the vibe. We stayed at Jamie O’Brien’s house, right at Pipeline, (Jamie’s the 2003 Pipe Pro Champion), so there was a huge personal connection between him and all his friends. I got a clear understanding, and gained a respect for the Hawaiian waves, due in part by surfing with Jamie and all his friends, also having Keppler on the beach telling me what to do, and what NOT to do! Keppler is very patient. He has a plan of what he wants to do, which is to help any up-and-coming kid that has talent and that has a good head on his shoulders. Keppler really does anything humanly possible to get them to that point... I’ve witnessed it, seen it and have come to respect it! Keppler has been the most inspirational, uplifting part of my surfing so far... I remember he called me the night before (NSSA) Western Champs and he let me know, all I have to do is my BEST, which is what I did and I ended up WINNING... He sets a good example, that you’ll wreap the benefits of what you put into anything that you do... Oh, and Keppler definitely helped me learn how to strut for the ladies, and truly flaunt my character!" - Alex Gray