Free Skate Workshops For Young

Are you a skater - or want to be? Your chance may be closer than you think. Totem Collective will be at Young Skatepark on Friday, July 8.

Hilltops Council has arranged for Totem to come along and conduct a series of free learn-to-skate classes for skaters from beginners to intermediates.

Hilltops Council’s Youth Engagement & Inclusion Officer, Georgia Thomaidis said the Totem Collective had been working with youth services and local and state government across the country for the past 11 years. “Working closely with councils and community services to activate skatepark environments through skateboarding programs with a strong focus on community building,” Ms Thomaidis said.

“These types of events help break the stigma around skateparks by bringing the community together and teaching our young people etiquette around skateparks. The Hilltops Youth Action Group will be cooking up a free sausage sizzle for all those that come along to participate/view on the day.”

“Totem skateboarders will be conducting demos throughout the day between the workshops so there will be something for us all to do.”

“Slate (the skateboarding store in Young) will also be donating some skateboards for those participating on the day to win. They will also be there with a tent set up to purchase anything needed to get you started.”

Ms Thomaidis said they held a similar event at Boorowa Skatepark last year which was very successful. “We had over 100 people turn up and about 60 participants,” she said. “If this event proves success, we would be seeking grants to run this event again at one of our skateparks.”

The workshops are funded by NSW Government Regional NSW.

Totem combines physical and creative elements of skateboarding, giving students the opportunity to try out and practice a comprehensive and unique variety of skills to build self-esteem in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. Skaters are encouraged to go at their own pace under the skilled guidance of Totem’s coaches.

Registrations begin at 10am and the event is open to skaters from 6 years of age upwards. If you are unsure as to which class would be most suitable for you or your child, Totem has created a simple guide to help.

The beginner class is for skill levels 0 to 1. A level 0 skater is a newcomer to the sport with no experience. They may have had a try, but are uncomfortable. Level 1 skaters are beginners. They’ve skated a few times, have limited experience and need to build their skillset and confidence.

Level 2 is a transition into intermediate. A level 2 skater knows the foundational skills and wants to start exploring tricks.

Level 3 is intermediate - these skaters are confident on a skateboard. They know the foundational skills and a few tricks and are now looking to advance to the next level.

Classes involve professional-grade equipment, including skateboards, helmets, and safety pads. Skaters with their own equipment are welcome to bring it along. Numbers are limited, so email Totem at bookings@totemskateboarding.com and register early.

• Topics:

• Workshops
• Skateboarding