Skater of the Month May: Willow Parker
May we introduce our Skater of the Month for May!
You might have seen Willow cruising around the West coast spreading the stoke with her local chapter in Bend, Oregon, or perhaps crossing the states to coach her unique style at various camps and clinics! Either way, if you don't know her, nows your chance to get to know the one and only Willow Parker!
Full Name: Willow Parker
Skater Name: Sometimes my skate pals call me Mama Willow
Instagram: @willowparcoeur
Chapter: Chicks in Bowls Bend
How did you come into roller skating?
In high school, I found out our little town had a sports complex where they held open skate nights. One thing led to the next and I found myself in Junior Roller Derby. When I turned 18, I transitioned into adult league but only played off and on for about a year and a half. I fell in love with being on eight wheels, but I never thrived in the competitive atmosphere.
My friend had a mini at their house after high school. After seeing a video of Estro, I thought, hey that’d be cool to try and I dabbled here and there pumping and carving. Years passed and it wasn’t until February 2017 that I got over my fear of being at the skatepark by myself & decided to give it a real shot. I’ve been park skating ever since.
Whats your favourite thing about skating in a bowl or ramp?
It’s in those moments I feel true freedom. I love the wind blowing through my hair, the sound of my wheels ripping around the transitions, and my blocks clicking when I hit the coping. Whether the day is going your way or not, you leave all your problems outside of the park. It’s amazing how you can let go of your worries when skating - it’s just you, your skates, & wherever the park takes you.
What does ‘Spread the Stoke’ mean to you?
Spreading the stoke means being encouraging and supportive when you’re laced up (and even when you’re not!). It is so easy to be afraid of what others think and want to give up, especially in the beginning phases. It’s important to celebrate every little victory as each skater progresses, through the fails & the successes.
I also find it important to be welcoming and open to all types of skaters. Theres no form of “skating” that allows us to treat anyone different than your CIB crew or good friends.
If you had one piece of advice to new skaters what would it be?
Have no expectations. It’s inevitable compare yourself and your skate style to those around you and on instagram. But the truth is, everybody has their own style! Nobody skates like you! Enjoy the journey and the progress you see in yourself from skating often. Don’t expect big results in a day, a month, or even a year. We all learn at our own pace and what you put in is what you get out.
Describe your skating in 3 words!
Floaty, fast, & powerful!
Fun Fact:
I was a “mathlete” in high school. Though I dropped out of college, and I can’t compute diddly squat nowadays (lol), I competed in regional competitions all four years before graduating. I even had my own version of Kenny G’s rap from Mean Girls!
Blog Photos: Ben Mah
Banner Photo: Regularman photography
Banner Photo: Regularman photography