We are a group of local skaters from the Zuidoost, specifically, from the Kraaiennest DIY Skatepark. Skateboarding has given us so much: new friends, bodily and mental strength, knowledge of ourselves. It is the only time during the day when we can let go of the daily stress and be fully present in the moment. Now, we want to give back to the sport that means so much to us and grow our community even further!
Ryan
An Olympic level snowboarding coach with over 15 years of experience. Coached the Brazil, China and Canada national teams. Started skating as an alternative to snowboarding and became very passionate about the sport once he made the move to the Netherlands. Continues his coaching work in indoor slopes and skates with his son in his free time. Volunteer at the New Wave Zuidoost indoor skatepark.
Robin
An insanely talented skateboarder from the Zuidoost with years and years spent on the board. Has parts in multiple videos and photos in multiple magazines. His deep bag of tricks is matched only by his experience with giving skateboarding lessons. He has been a teacher for about 5 years, giving lessons to kids as well as adults. Stylish on an off the board, interested in fashion.
Jan
Born on a board. Windsurfing since age 7, snowboarding sine age 11, longboarding since age 14, skateboarding since age 20. From Warsaw, Poland, moved to the Netherlands to pursue education at the UvA. One of the newest members of the Kraaie Crew, helping organizing skateboarding events at the Skatepark DIY Kraaiennest and the mastermind behind the Nest Skateschool.
AJ
Began their skateboarding journey in the New Wave Skateschool as a student. As they got better at skateboarding, they took more and more responsibility within the skateschool, eventually helping Rex run the classes. Graduate of the Sports Academics Bachelor, giving them both theoretical and practical experience with running skateboarding lessons.
Rex
Athletic background in running, skater of 2 years. Co-president of the Women Skate the World non-profit, which focuses on the empowerment of marginalized identities through skateboarding. Volunteer and teacher at the New Wave Zuidoost indoor skatepark, giving skateboarding lessons as part of the New Wave Skateschool. Previously involved in Project Fearless – a sports initiative aimed at women, as a skateboarding coach.
