Skateboarding isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. I discovered skateboarding during my teenage years, and it wasn’t long before skateboarding became a huge part of who I am. The rush of nailing a trick that I’ve been working on for months is something words can’t completely capture.
I chose skateboarding because I’m passionate about it. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of landing a trick after months of practice. It’s this rush that kept me tied to the sport for years. Moving to California to skate and enjoy the sun was one of the best decisions I ever made. California’s skate culture is vibrant and full of life; it’s like the skateboarding capital of the world.
For 15 unforgettable years, skateboarding was my main gig. Whether it was dodging cracks on the pavement or skating on a homemade ramp, I loved every minute of it. I hear people dismiss skateboarding as a kid’s game, but they’re wrong. Skateboarding is for anyone who’s healthy and clear-minded. Age has nothing to do with it.
It’s all about dedication—the time you spend, the falls you take, and the tricks you land. The sense of accomplishment from landing a new trick makes all the bruises and scrapes worth it. Even now, with my bones not quite as strong and the countless injuries, I still look back at those years with a smile on my face. This sport—this lifestyle—kept me grounded and gave me purpose.
The Reality Check: Struggles and Setbacks
Turning 41 brought a harsh reality. Osteoporosis hit me like a ton of bricks, leaving me in constant pain. The bones aren’t what they used to be, and that’s made a significant impact. Unfortunately, skating, heavy labor, and even driving became out of the question. I had to make some tough adjustments.
Injuries were part of the game. I’ve broken my arm twice and my elbow once—each time was brutal. That first broken arm? I hit a stone and went flying. The elbow injury happened on a half-pipe. The surgeries were painful, the recovery even more so, but each setback was followed by a return to the board, at least until the next slam.
Adjusting to life without skating was tough. I still crave that rush every day. It’s a longing that doesn’t just fade away. Watching others skate brings a mix of joy and a bit of heartache. I’m happy for them, but it’s hard not to feel left out.
For anyone out there dealing with similar setbacks, remember: passion doesn’t disappear. Finding alternative ways to stay connected to what you love is key. Whether it’s through watching competitions, supporting the community, or even sharing your experiences, keep that passion alive. I’m learning new ways to cope and stay involved, and that’s been helping a lot.
Shifting my focus to affiliate training has been a new chapter. It’s not skating, but it’s another way to channel my energy and stay connected to the skateboarding world. Life will throw curveballs, but with the right mindset, you can keep rollin’—in one form or another.
Skateboarding’s Evolution and Influential Moments
Skateboarding started humble, just a piece of wood with wheels. But from that humble beginning, it went on to become an iconic part of California culture. In the early days, it wasn’t about sponsorships or tournaments. Kids in California grabbed their boards and skated like there was no tomorrow, inventing tricks in empty swimming pools and makeshift ramps in backyards.
Over the years, skateboarding evolved into something much bigger. The 70s were a pivotal time, with skaters pushing boundaries and creating a scene that drew attention from around the world. From homemade ramps to the first dedicated skate parks, these developments marked a progression that turned skateboarding into a globally recognized sport. It was no longer just a pastime; it became a lifestyle.
The culture of rebellion played a huge role. Skating wasn’t just about tricks and competitions; it was about defiance and freedom. This spirit of rebellion attracted many to the sport, offering a sense of community to those who didn’t fit into the conventional boxes.
One of the most significant changes came with the introduction of different skating styles. Street, park, and vert categories emerged, each with its unique appeal and set of challenges. I always leaned toward street skating, loving the creativity it allowed and the way it utilized urban landscapes. Street skating is raw and real, a true test of skill and imagination.
With the rise of competitions and televised events, like the X Games and, more recently, the Olympics, skateboarding has cemented its place in mainstream sports culture. From the pioneers of the 70s to today’s elite athletes, the sport’s evolution showcases incredible talent and dedication. It’s been a fascinating ride, watching skateboarding grow from something that parents frowned upon to a respected global phenomenon.
If you’re new to skating or thinking about picking it up, dive into its history. Understand where it came from and how it’s grown. Appreciating its roots gives you a deeper connection to the board and the culture. Every skater stands on the shoulders of those who came before them.
Styles of Skateboarding: Diversity Within
Skateboarding isn’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Over the years, three main styles have solidified their places in the skating world: street, park, and vert. Each style has its unique flair, challenges, and thrills.
Street skating is my favorite. It’s all about utilizing urban architecture—rails, stairs, benches, anything you can find. The creativity needed to turn everyday objects into a skater’s playground is what makes street skating so captivating. Balance, precision, and a bit of daring are key. You’re not just doing tricks; you’re performing art on concrete.
Park skating brings a different vibe. Skateparks are designed with smooth surfaces, ramps, and bowls specifically for skating. It’s a controlled environment where skaters can push their limits without worrying about traffic or passersby. This style is all about fluidity and speed, transitioning seamlessly from one trick to another.
Then there’s vert skating, the adrenaline-pumping discipline where skaters ride huge vertical ramps. It’s like defying gravity. Seeing a skater soar up a half-pipe, catch air, and land gracefully is awe-inspiring. Vert skating demands courage, timing, and a refined sense of balance. Some of the biggest names in skating history started in the vert scene.
My early days included trying out different styles, but street skating won my heart. Skating in old, dried-up swimming pools or finding hidden spots around town—those were the days. Each style brought its own set of challenges and joys. Trying different forms gave me a deeper appreciation for the sport and its versatility.
For anyone starting out, don’t limit yourself to one style. Explore all three—street, park, and vert. Each offers something unique and teaches different skills. As you experiment, you’ll discover what suits you best and what makes you feel alive on that board.
Skateboarding as a Community and Industry
The sense of community in skateboarding is undeniable. When I started, it wasn’t just about the tricks; it was about the people I met and the friendships I forged. The skate park was a melting pot of different backgrounds and stories, but once you’re on that board, everyone’s equal. Skating together, cheering each other on, pushing boundaries—it’s a collective experience that binds skaters together.
Skate contests began appearing in the 70s, marking a new era in the sport. These events showed the world that skateboarders were serious athletes. The rise of competitions like the X Games and the Olympics transformed skateboarding into a billion-dollar industry. What started as a few kids goofing around became a global phenomenon, impacting everything from fashion to music.
Skate parks turned into the breeding ground for future pros. It wasn’t rare to see kids with worn-down boards dreaming of becoming the next Tony Hawk or Nyjah Huston. My local park was no different. I’d often see young skaters grinding away, their boards nearly falling apart. Feeling for them, I used to give away my boards after a few weeks of use, trading them for a couple of Red Bulls. Nothing beat the joy in their eyes.
Watching the skate park community grow and thrive was fulfilling. The mix of amateurs and pros, learning from each other, pushing each other—it was like watching a family. Despite no longer active skating, being part of the scene as a mentor or a supportive observer was rewarding. The knowledge and passion I shared with younger skaters helped keep the flame alive in the community.
Skateboarding’s reach extends beyond just the skaters. It’s influenced culture, fashion, and even business. The rags-to-riches stories, the evolution from an underground activity to a mainstream sport—the impact is huge. It’s incredible to think how far it’s come from those early days of simple wooden boards with wheels. Being a part of that journey, however small, is something I’ll always cherish.
Reflection and Looking Forward
The last skate contest I watched was the Olympics. To see skateboarding on such a grand stage was surreal, showcasing the sport I love to the world. But I couldn’t help but feel a bit of sadness watching from the sidelines. The thrill of skating is unmatched, and being unable to participate is tough. However, staying connected through watching videos and competitions keeps the spirit alive.
Memories of my dad flood back when I think of skateboarding. He never really liked the sport and worried about my injuries. Yes, I got hurt—a lot—but that was part of the journey. I remember crafting a solid five-foot rail in his backyard. Welding that piece and then tearing it apart with tricks gave me a sense of achievement like no other. Losing him in 2017 was incredibly hard, but the memories we shared, even the disagreements, are priceless.
These days, I channel my skateboarding passion differently. Catching up on the latest Street League Skateboarding (SLS) events and watching my favorite skater, Nyjah Huston, keeps me engaged. I may not ride the board anymore, but the love for the sport is still strong.
For those passionate about skateboarding or any other pursuit, remember that adjustments don’t mean the end. There are always ways to stay involved and connected. Whether it’s mentoring young skaters, engaging with the community, or even shifting your focus like I did with affiliate training, your passion can find new forms of expression.
The itch to step on a board is still there, and maybe one day, I’ll give it a go—gingerly, of course. For now, I’ll continue cherishing the journey I’ve had, sharing my knowledge, and celebrating the sport that shaped a big part of who I am. Life has its twists, but the passion never fades.
