Skate Like a Girl, the Elk Valley’s new female-focused skateboarding club, wrapped up this year’s last session of kick flips and drop ins this past Monday.
Though predominantly a male-dominated sport, a total of 13 eager girls from Fernie and Sparwood attended the three skill-based sessions hosted at the Sparwood Skatepark this month.
The lessons were overseen by local skater, Layne Leskosek, who encouraged the young girls to step outside of their comfort zones, make new friends, and empower themselves in a supportive and inclusive environment.
“We definitely had a lot of fun and it was so nice getting to meet a bunch of girls,” said Leskosek.
Adorned in knee pads and colourful helmets, in a mere three session the girls worked on a variety of skills while becoming better acquainted with skatepark etiquette. But besides learning to ride, the sessions inspired the young ladies to believe in themselves, giving them the confidence needed to keep skateboarding.
“I’m super happy with the turn out and with all the girls,” said Leskosek.
“Everyone was great and listened super well. It’s a good little crew.”
Following the success of this year’s group, Skate Like a Girl hopes to pick up where they left off in 2021.
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