BY SUFIAN MOHIDIN
KUCHING: Clear clouds accompany the energy at the park as the lesson continues.
“Look ha, see here, okay…yeah, again ha!” an animated Denny demonstrates a “Pop-shuvit” move repeatedly.
Some attempts were clean, some weren’t but when the moves were done correctly, the crowd responded enthusiastically.
After several more demonstrations, Denny speaks again. “You guys saw the trick, now go skate.”
The students brace themselves and shout the words, “Skate of mind!”
Joy and excitement fill the air as they head to their stations.
Jerry Ho and Mohammad Hamzah observe each group and then all three coaches switch and shift their attention towards those who need a little bit more help.
“Our youngest student is a five-year-old boy, an adorable tough kid and just recently we had our newest female skater AhMoy, 37, our most senior student.
“As for the others, the committed beginners and experienced skaters put together, 10 of them maybe learning how to fall, another 10 fixing their balance while another group figuring the best foot techniques in pulling the most stylish kicks,” Denny explained.
“Ultimately, if you’re a coach for any sport you must have the last three skills set by ESPN.
“According to ESPN’s must-have values for a coach, the last three are listening, discipline and respect. “Based on the performances of students from 2019, 2020 and 2021, 70 per cent had shown the development of strength, acuteness and balance; 20 per cent growth in year one, 30 in the second year, and they achieved 50 per cent skate confidence.
“20 per cent are showing impressive growth in terms of skillset, ability to learn, feet coordination and attitude.
“When compared to when they first started, some of them had low self-esteem, lack of confidence and were attached to their mobile phones.
“For the remaining 10 per cent, I am confident that they are enjoying their time 100 per cent.
Parents love that their children are spending time here rather than being immersed in their smartphones and mobile games.”
