When Avril Lavigne sung about Sk8er Boi’s there was likely fewer female skaters on the scene, but soon you’ll see skater girls dropping kickflips, ollies and boardslides all over Albert-Eden thanks to the local board’s involvement
Girls Skate NZ classes help dismantle barriers in skateboarding, such as social intimidation, gender discrimination and the financial burden to ensure skateboarding is more accessible.
In order to provide free classes, Girls Skate NZ reached out to Sport Auckland for funding, and the Albert-Eden Local Board played a helping hand with the application by advocating and writing a letter of support for the funding.
The funding was confirmed, and as a result there are six sessions of free classes during the school holidays, and likely more after the holidays.
Amber Clyde, founder of Girls Skate NZ, says the local board involvement was critical.
“We’re massively grateful for the support of the Albert-Eden Local Board in ensuring our wahine have access to this great sport, which strengthens confidence, resilience and physical and mental wellbeing.”
Chair Kendyl Smith says it’s critical sports are accessible.
“There are many benefits to getting involved in sports, and for many families and children, sometimes there are difficult barriers to overcome. I’ve got a young daughter, and fully appreciate and understand the positives that flow from an all-girl environment, which is less intimidating, and easier to integrate into.”
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