CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism held its first Skateboard Camp last week at Skate Depot Park downtown, giving children a chance to learn skateboard basics.
Snack breaks under nearby shade trees were frequent due to the summer heat, but participants were eager to continue learning.
Instructor Montgomery Miller, after day one, wrote, “Every kid learned something new today. Every kid left eager to learn more. Every kid decided they think skateboarding is fun. One kid even told me he loved me and hugged me periodically throughout the 4 hour session.“
On Friday, June 26, when asked about plans for a future camp, Miller stated, “It’ll probably be one-on-one sessions unless I’m asked to do the camp again.”
He explained that with a large group of children, you work with different skill sets as these sessions allow for better training. He advised that the first step of the camp was ensuring everyone could balance on their boards.
“Half of them couldn’t even stand on a skateboard the first day and now they’re all skating down hills now,” he smiled. “I just guide them to do what they want. I get as many into a group as I can of similar skill sets and teach them from there.”
He said that to adjust his teaching style for each child he asked them what tricks they thought were cool and what they could see themselves learning. This provided insight into their confidence levels and determination.
Miller assigned each child a trick to try that was within their skill level and, if the children attempted the trick, they were awarded a Tech Deck mini skateboard.
“If they achieved it while holding my hands they still got a Tech Deck, but they picked theirs after the children that did it without,” he said.
As far as safety, Miller advised helmets are most important. Knee pads are the most important pads to have, though he suggested for those who are still learning to maintain balance and are accident prone – all pads are great!
“When my daughter started I made her wear elbow pads, knee pads, wrist guards and a helmet the entire time we were at a skate park,” he said.
Those interested in one-on-one sessions can contact Montgomery Miller at www.facebook.com/montgomery.miller.9.
