April O’Gorman to Represent the U.S. in New Zealand

Posted On: September 24, 2025

From the beaches of Volusia County to the shores of New Zealand, Lifeguard April O'Gorman is making waves on the international stage. This November, O'Gorman will don the red, white, and blue as she competes for Team USA at the International Surf Rescue Challenge in New Zealand. This marks her eighth time representing our nation in international competition and proves once again that Volusia County produces some of the world's finest ocean athletes.

O’Gorman earned her spot on the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) National Team through outstanding performances at this year’s USLA National Championships, where she captured first place in the Board Race and Taplin Relay, and placed second in the International Ironwoman and the paddleboard relay.

Born in Honolulu and raised in Volusia County, O’Gorman grew up with the ocean as a constant in her life. A competitive swimmer from an early age, she found that the water came naturally to her. Becoming a lifeguard gave her the chance to turn that passion into something bigger – a career devoted to protecting others. She has served as a Volusia County lifeguard since 2015.

O’Gorman follows in a strong tradition of Volusia County lifeguards competing at the national level. In recent years, Lucy Noble and McKenzie O’Keefe represented the U19 National Team, while Hallie Lynskey (formerly Petersohn) raced for Team USA from 2015 to 2018. Earlier generations also included Thomas McGibney, the most decorated American surf lifesaving athlete in international medal count.

Her selection highlights the exceptional skill and training of Volusia County’s lifeguards, who are consistently recognized among the best in the state. This summer, the Volusia County Lifeguard team placed first overall at the Southeast Regional Lifesaving Championships held in July in Daytona Beach, competing against more than 20 teams from across the region.