2024 International Lifeguard of the Year

Today marks a historic milestone for ISLA as we proudly present the first-ever International Lifeguard of the Year award! This honor celebrates an exceptional lifeguard whose expertise, humanitarian dedication, and unwavering commitment to ocean safety set a global standard for lifesaving. We are thrilled to present this prestigious inaugural award to Sierra Casper from San Diego Lifeguard Services.

With over eight years as a lifeguard for the City of San Diego, Sierra has participated in four ISLA Operations, serving as both a lifeguard and instructor trainer. Alongside her lifesaving career, she’s a multi-sport athlete, having competed in national championships for three sports, including surfing as a UCSD Surf Team member and snowboarding semi-professionally with sponsorship from Monster Energy. Beyond the beach, Sierra’s sense of adventure has taken her to the Mt. Everest Base Camp and to Maui, where a childhood dream inspired her to become a sailor on a Hawaiian sailboat despite having no prior experience. Her EMT training came to the forefront during her time at sea when she expertly treated a coworker who sustained serious injuries after a fall through the cabin top.

A published researcher with a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from UC San Diego, Sierra also pursued her Diploma in Dive and Marine Medicine, including work on pregnancy and wilderness travel. In 2024, she was accepted into the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah. Her dedication to saving lives shines especially in her heroic on-duty CPR efforts, saving a child at Mission Beach.

Sierra embodies everything the 2024 International Lifeguard of the Year award represents—excellence in water safety, leadership, and a remarkable commitment to serving others. ISLA and her peers celebrate Sierra’s achievements and look forward to her continued impact, as she inspires and protects with passion and skill.