Courtesy/ Evan Arraut
Appealing to students looking for a casual club experience, Grand Valley State University’s Skateboarding Club encourages skaters to practice the sport, learn tricks and enjoy each other’s company.
Skate Club, which began last academic year, was refounded this semester. After last year’s warm weather dissipated, the group formally dissolved as a Registered Student Organization. However, new skaters have started the club up again, and have plans to explore further skating opportunities.
The group is open to anyone with an interest in all forms of skateboarding, and places an emphasis on personal skating growth.
“Our primary focus is on skateboarding, (and) facilitating the standard popsicle-sized board that lets skaters ‘pop’ their board,” said Peter Berdo, the club’s president. “(This) allows for more complex tricks.”
By engaging in the hobby at weekly meetings, members are able to carve out recreational time from their busy schedules. For students busy pursuing academic and professional goals, it often takes a concentrated effort to set aside time for personal enrichment. The club provides a space for students looking to create stability, and relax through skateboarding.
“Our club keeps things simple,” said Membership Officer Alex Hein. “Each week is a bit different depending on the group’s mood. We might stay and skate in the parking lot, or head out and explore campus together. It’s a relaxed setup that lets people drop in, have fun and enjoy the time together.”
Since winter is approaching, the group won’t be able to meet outside anymore. However, Berdo noted his excitement about transitioning to an indoor space once it gets colder.
“I personally look forward to finding an indoor space (where) we could continue to hold Skate Club meetings,” Berdo said.
Both Berdo and Hein highlighted that drawing more awareness to the group’s activities will help foster the evolving skateboarding community at GVSU.
“People are drawn to the easygoing, supportive atmosphere we offer,” Hein said. “We believe skating should be accessible and fun for everyone, so there’s no pressure to be the best. Just come as you are, improve at your own pace and enjoy the community. It’s a space to connect, relax and skate in a positive environment.”
The skateboarding scene outside of GVSU is known for both competitive and casual events that evaluate a participant’s ability to perform tricks successfully. Events are usually held at skate parks, which include structures designed to facilitate various maneuvers. Tricks performed on ramps, rails and slopes help skateboarders improve their skills and test their limits.
While Skate Club emphasizes its relaxed nature, this growing group of skateboarders is excited to branch out and explore new opportunities. One of the student organization’s goals is to take part in various skateboarding events in both Grand Rapids and Grand Haven. By generating more interest in the club, skateboarders at GVSU will have the ability to travel to these events, progress in the sport and connect with the wider skateboarding community.
“We’re excited to grow,” Hein said. “There’s a lot of potential to make this club something really special at Grand Valley. Whether it’s bringing in new members or taking part in events, we’re looking forward to expanding what we do, and meeting more people who share our love for skating.”
GVSU’s Skateboarding Club meets every Thursday from 6-8 p.m. outside the Calder Fine Arts Center.