The Beach Chiefs Association was formed in 1983 to promote professionalism within Florida’s ocean lifesaving agencies. The founding members recognized the need for increased cooperation and communication among Florida’s professional ocean lifeguards. Worthwhile projects began to emerge from the ‘Chiefs’ including public education, promoting legislation related to ocean lifesaving, and raising standards of training and certification. The “Lifeguard of the Year” and “Beach Patrol of the Year” awards were created to honor the best lifeguards and lifeguard agencies in the State of Florida.