That was Sick!: Thrasher and New Balance Shred Mooresville

Photo: Omar Raza

Thrasher Magazine and New Balance pop out at the local Mooresville Skatepark, bringing twelve pro skaters, people from all over the country, and insane tricks!

by MVL Guest Contributor & Local Journalism Student, Omar Raza

August 19th marked an incredible day for the skaters of Mooresville. The sounds of punk music, kickflips, and excitement filled the local skatepark’s air as droves of spectators began to enter the area. The skatepark, originally developed in 2008, had provided a fostering environment for skaters in the area. However, the park was revamped in December of 2022, skyrocketing its popularity, and attracting skaters from all over the state. “It was kind of amazing, this is probably one of the largest skateparks in the southeast. Thrasher did a story on it, they called us, and they were excited about the park. I’m not a big skater but I have a heart for the youth to have more things to do” said town commissioner and lifelong Mooresville native, Thurmon Houston.

The event, sponsored by Thrasher Magazine and New Balance, brought a host of twelve professional skaters, including skateboarding legend Andrew Reynolds and 2017 Skater of the Year winner Jamie Foy. The event had the pros demonstrate their skills within the new park, allowing fans to watch live and actively participate with them as well. Along with demonstrations, chances for skaters to interact with their favorite pros, and sponsored giveaways, all of the revenue generated by the event was donated to the Charlotte Skate Foundation. However, fiscal revenue was not the only profit. This event truly fostered what makes Mooresville so special – a true community bonded together by acceptance. “The biggest change I see is in the skateboarders,” said Mooresville resident James White, a local who has skated at the park since its inception in 2008. “The kids who rode that park are now adults, they still shred, they still ride. Some of those dudes helped build this park.” Despite the stereotyped rebellious or disrespectful nature of skateboarding, one of the most resounding themes found at the event was the mass feeling of acceptance. “Everybody comes as one. It doesn't matter what race you are, everyone comes together as one big family. I can't tell you how many times I’ve come to the skatepark and met new people and now I call them my family,” says Charlotte resident Camilia Pearson. “When I first started skating, there were not a lot of female skaters, like ever. I used to be really shy, but over time, I’ve seen so many girls come out, put in work and effort… it’s pretty great to see that.” The event even attracted Brian Segal and his crew, passionate skaters who came all the way from Ohio. “I love the community of it. We all have one common interest. It’s not a normal sport where you’re on a team, it’s all on yourself, but you can also be with friends. It makes it so much better.”

Photo: Omar Raza

The investment in skateboarding is an investment in building a community that accepts everyone, no matter who they are. It is an investment in the youth who are our future, providing a creative outlet where lifelong connections are made. Professional Skateboarder Jamie Foy puts it best, “There are no barriers. Once you grab a skateboard, it can be any board. You come to the park, you start meeting friends, you start to get introduced to a new community that has no bias other than the love of skateboarding.”