Skateboard clinic shows kids the basics

POLSON – About a dozen elementary and middle school-aged children this week learned the ins, the outs, the ups and the downs of skateboarding.

Sponsored by 7th Ave Skatepark, the skate clinic started Monday and will culminate on Friday when the young skaters will put all their newfound skills to the test.

During the weeklong skateboarding camp, instructors Jesse Vargas and Loni Havlovick trained beginner and intermediate campers in the ways of basic skateboarding. The kids also learned trick fundamentals, skate park safety and etiquette. Safety measures included directions on where to stand and how to stay alert while at the park.

“This has been a blast,” said Vargas. “It’s incredible to see the participants go from absolute beginners to making leaps and bounds in their skills.”

Vargas and Havlovick worked to improve the skills of each individual campers based on their experience level.

Beginners were introduced to the basics, including standing on the board, rolling down ramps and performing some simple tricks. The intermediate skaters learned how to control their skateboards and perform more complex tricks.

Both Havlovick and Vargas hope the lessons learned during the skate clinic have instilled an enthusiasm and a lifelong passion for the sport in each of the young riders.