Professional skateboard coach and the face behind Chiggy’s Skateboarding, Mat “Chiggy” Chigwidden, has wowed the crowds in Aura over the past few weeks with drop-in sessions at the Farmers Market and coaching programs at Baringa Skate Park.
Chiggy’s portable mini ramp was a natural drawcard for young aspiring skateboarders who came out in droves to take part in the sessions with rave reviews.
And the good news is, Chiggy is sticking around in the 4551 postcode.
“We have regular lessons every week as well as workshops at Baringa,” Chiggy said.
Dates of the Baringa workshops are:
December 2024
Saturday 14th 9am-3pm (12 and under’s)
Monday 16th 9am-3pm (12 and under’s)
Friday 20th 3pm-8pm (12 and over’s)
January 2025
Saturday 12th 9am-3pm (12 and under’s)
Thursday 16th 9am-3pm (12 and under’s)
Friday 17th 3pm-8pm (12 and over’s)
Friday 24th 3pm-8pm (12 and over’s)
Chiggy said skateboarding offered kids the opportunity to learn crucial skills such as balance and coordination, social skills, confidence and the ability to overcome fear.
“They don’t need any skills, we can provide them with all the necessary skills in just one day within our workshops or a few of our lessons,” he said.
Chiggy himself got started as a skateboarder at the age of eight.
“A friend of mine from school offered me a board to sit down on it and bomb a hill – I was hooked instantly,” he said.
“I had an opportunity to teach when I was 21 and I was also hooked instantly.
“I knew right there and then that this is what I was supposed to do as it brought me so much joy and still does today.
“The smile on peoples face when they learn and overcome challenges you have assisted them with is the ultimate fulfilling experience.”
Chiggy said the Baringa Skate Park had the bones of a top-notch skateboarding locale.
“It is an ideal place for skateboarders however it would be nice to be able to add some transition to the park to make it more diverse and create more flow,” he said.
Chiggy and his coaches work with emerging skateboarders from beginner to advanced skill levels.
For more information on Chiggy’s regular sessions head to www.chiggysskateboarding.com.au.
