The US Freediving Federation (USFF) is proud to operate under the international authority of CMAS (cmas.org) the official worldwide governing body for freediving and all underwater sports. Since joining CMAS in March 2018, the USFF has remained committed to growing and advancing the sport of freediving across the United States, and the momentum continues to build.
Over the past several years, the USFF has steadily expanded its reach, strengthened its foundation, and delivered impact across the community. Notable achievements include:
Supporting U.S. athletes in their journey to CMAS Indoor and Outdoor World Championships since 2018
Hosting competitions in Hawaii and sanctioning two CMAS competitions on the island of Dominica
Sanctioning the CMAS Depth World Championships in Roatán
Bringing key freediving product partners into the U.S. freediving ecosystem
Establishing both national and international judging programs
Launching grassroots fundraising to help athletes travel and compete on the world stage
Certifying a full set of CMAS National Records under USFF here in the U.S.
Celebrating numerous World, Continental, and National Records set by our members
Spotlighting Rachel Novak as commentator for several CMAS World Championships
Welcoming Dr. Juani Valdivia as USFF Medical Director
Appointing Francesca Koe as Technical Director
Featuring Mitch Brown as official underwater photographer at various CMAS events
Driving growth and storytelling via Sara Saito, USFF’s social media lead and designer
Advancing funding initiatives under the leadership of Christina Sours, Fundraising Director
Appointing Talya Davidoff as Senior Team Captain for 2024 and 2025
Appointing Avi Kleyman as Masters Team Captain for 2025
Growing to a nationwide community of 500+ members and counting
When I first launched the US Freediving Federation after an unexpected meeting with the President of CMAS in Turkey in 2017, I had no idea this kind of growth and achievement was possible. I’m deeply grateful to every athlete, volunteer, leader, and community member who has helped build this movement.
A Major Milestone: Welcoming Avi Kleyman to the CMAS Freediving Commission
It’s with great pride that we announce a historic development: Avi Kleyman has been appointed to the CMAS Freediving Commission — making him the first American to hold a seat on this global governing body.
The CMAS Freediving Commission is a 4-year appointment and plays a critical role in shaping the future of our sport. From competition standards and education to judging programs and development strategies, this group steers the direction of freediving worldwide.
Avi has long been a cornerstone of the U.S. freediving community, especially in the Los Angeles area. He’s traveled internationally to support and compete, holds multiple national records, and has been instrumental in preparing and unifying the Masters team for 2025.
Please join the US Freediving Federation in congratulating and welcoming Mr. Avi Kleyman to the CMAS Freediving Commission. His experience, dedication, and leadership make him the ideal representative for the United States and for the values the USFF stands for.
We couldn’t imagine a better ambassador at this moment in our journey.