The owners of a local surf and skateboard shop want to sponsor a skateboard team and are looking for local skateboarders to fill the roster.
The Totally Board Surf Company is holding team tryouts for skateboarders age 12-18 on Tuesday, June 14 at the Gyro skatepark.
Pre-registration starts at 6:15 p.m. and competition goes at 7 p.m.
Helmets and protective gear are mandatory.
Once chosen the three-member team will be outfitted with supplied with equipment, discounted gear and competition entry fees.
The team’s first competition will be in Tofino on the July 1 weekend.
Supporting the Valley’s skate scene and advocating for an improved skate facilities are behind the move.
“We want to support local skaters and the kids want this,” shop owner Tracey Chester said.
There’s no shortage of skateboarders, although there could be more female enthusiasts, Chester said.
But the existing park is limiting for those skateboarders ho want to up their game and enter competitions.
“They have to travel to Nanaimo, Ukee or Ladysmith to use more challenging parks,” Chester said.
A public private partnership is one option to build a better park, Chester added.
reporter@albernivalleynews.com