Learn to Skateboard like a Pro!
w/Brian Mank

Written By Michael Mendoza

Imagine your child having the opportunity of learning how to skateboard from a professional skater! The thrill of skating along side an expert would be extraordinary for anyone wanting to learn how to skate or take it to the next level. Ollie’s, kickflips, drop-ins, riding on ramps and rails or simply learning the fundamentals; the possibilities would be endless!

I recently had the opportunity of visiting Mank Skateboard University in Santa Ana, CA. to watch Brian Mank, a professional skater and ramp builder, teach kids how to skate. When I walked into his shop, some of the students were strapping on their safety gear as parents relaxed and prepared to watch their kids learn how to skateboard.Brian’s positive combination of encouraging words and motivation energized the kids to jump on their boards and start riding.
I was surprised to see how well these 9 year old kids were skating. Casually riding up and down the ramp, turning their heads, and rotating their skateboards 180 degrees as they rode to the next ramp. I wondered how long these 4th grade kids had been riding. I was surprised to find out that they were only in their second lesson! Prior to that, they never rode before. They were skating so well!

As I walked around the shop to scan the hand written thank you cards,pictures, and drawings that were posted on the wall, I began to appreciate Brian Mank’s passion for skateboarding. His enthusiasm for skating exceeded his personal aspirations and transferred into the lives of his dedicated students. Everytime a student performed a trick, a casual glance and eye contact with Brian Mank was sure to spark a smile. That’s what being a mentor is all about; kids having fun and learning while becoming skilled at a hobby that they love. The energy level was also exciting as parents cheered for every trick performed.

Students were encouraged to keep on riding while Brian’s positive approach sparked supportive comments: “That’s what a skateboarder does; he goes for it!” When practice time came to an end, students were surprised to find out that practice was over and couldn’t wait until their next class. Brian encouraged them to spend time gearing up before riding and having fun performing the new tricks they learned After a few more encouraging comments, students were anxious to get home to show their new skating tricks to their friends. Parents were sure to thank Brian for igniting and maintaining their kid’s interest in skating.

Keeping kids active in a hobby that they love is extremely important. Whether you are a parent who wants your child to be active in a competitive sport or a guardian looking to fulfill your child’s desire of taking skateboarding lessons, keeping kids active enhances their physical skills while making friends, having fun, and improving self-esteem. The lessons learned during children’s sports will help form principles and manners necessary for adult life.