When COVID-19 first started, I didn’t realize how much it would affect my skate life. But, with the help of online skate classes, virtual skate parties, and random Zoom happy hour parties, I’m able to stay connected to my skate family.
Since roller rinks are shut down until further notice, skaters have found creative and clever ways to keep roller skating alive. From creating new content and skate challenges, we’ve created unique virtual experiences. Of course, it’s not the same as hitting the wood floor and vibin’ out to the music from the DJ booth, but it helps develop a sense of community.
With the absence of our rinks, I will appreciate the rink even more after this madness is over. I’ve heard a few skaters say, “I will never complain about the skating rink ever again!” (I know y’all are lyin’ because as soon as the DJ plays the same songs, the complaints will come back, LOL!)
Throughout my timeline, I see a lot of skaters adapting to this change and hosting small gatherings at local parks to have mini skate sessions. Now, I know this goes against the social distancing rule that the government wants us to follow, but the urge to roll out with skate fam can be irresistible. My message to all skaters is just be careful because COVID-19 is real and raging havoc everywhere.
I can’t help but think about what skate life will be like from this point on.
- Will national parties be the same?
- Will coordinators limit the number of people in the rink?
- Will the rink owners allow big skate events again?
A little part of me is grieving how life used to be. I feel like the new generation of skaters will get ripped off the excitement of what skate life was like before the Rona.
As the country begins to open up slowly, the excitement of being able to go inside the rink and glide effortlessly across the floor becomes more and more desirable.
I cannot wait for things to go back to normal.
Comment below and let me know what you are doing to keep our skate culture alive. What changes to do you foresee happening in the world? I’m curious to know!