Legendary Siesta Key lifeguard Scooter of the Beach retires

For 41 years, Scot Ruberg, better known as Scooter of the Beach, has been a fixture of Siesta Key Beach from his seat in the lifeguard stand.

Yet earlier this week, Ruberg announced his retirement from the role he has held since 1984, a decision he reached after nearly six months off duty following an injury. 

"I'm ready, man," he said. "Something told me it's time, and I got a little taste of that time off when I was with the injury, and I kind of liked it."

Courtesy image

Ruberg says he will miss the daily interaction with the families, kids, concession workers, sheriffs and maintenance workers he has befriended across the years.

However, there's something Scooter's fans can continue to look forward to: his morning "beach report" videos on social media, where he has gained many thousands of followers.