Italo Ferreira – BRA, G                      Rank:  26            Proj:   24

Here’s a guy that you’re going to have to go with your gut instinct in early in 2015.  Italo (EE-tah-lo) Ferreira put together an outstanding 2014 QS performance, with some highlights including a 5 REA, 14.16 AHS, and a 32 QSF for 892.17 TFP.  That’s a hefty total, and he made 3 F, but never won an event.

Ferreira is a manufacturer, reminiscent of Mick Fanning but without the power displays.  We’ve seen this strategy work with other Brazilian surfers (Adriano de Souza) who understand the game.  This knowledge of what the judges seek could help Italo in the long stretch.

What he’s got to prove to us – and you – is that he can keep up that >13 AHS in the CT.  Don’t look for him to win any events at the this level (he couldn’t pull one off in the QS), but as long as he stays in the bottom tiers, it won’t be long before he can put up big value for his price.  Hold off on Italo until Brazil this year.

2015 Bold Prediction:  R2 upset before Rio Pro, BRA