Skating Towards Community: Women’s Empowerment on Boards in Austin
On a crisp Wednesday evening in November, a vibrant group of women gathers at a small patch of concrete near a bike trail in East Austin. Among them is new skateboarder Amanda Batchelor. She stands next to a cheerful banner that reads “Austin Womxn’z Skate,” a reminder of both community and inclusion. As she chats with fellow skaters, it’s clear this gathering is about more than just mastering tricks; it’s a space for connection, laughter, and empowerment.
Finding Connection Through Skateboarding
Amanda, who only started skating six months ago, shares her journey. “I actually skated here from my house,” she says with a sense of pride. “It’s amazing to think I wouldn’t have been able to do that just four months ago.” For Amanda, finding the Austin Womxn Skate group—now rebranded as Swirl Austin—has been a game changer. This supportive community is a sanctuary where women of all skill levels come together to share their love for skating.
“I feel like I just kind of fell in love with it,” she admits. “At this age, making new friends can be tough, and I’m new to the city.” It’s a sentiment that resonates with many of the women present, who eagerly anticipate the gatherings held twice a month across various locations in Central Texas.
Creating a Safe Space
Brii Valdez, a mental health and art therapist, is one of the three women who started the Austin Womxn Skate group. What began as casual meetups at Mueller Park turned into something more profound. “We saw a need in the community for women skaters and a space where they could feel really supported,” Valdez explains, reflecting on the importance of fostering a welcoming environment where every skater—beginner or expert—can find her footing.
The atmosphere is electric with excitement as members gather, some tossing diapers into a donation box for local families. After a brief warm-up, Carolina Montgomery, another founder, calls everyone together to set a few ground rules: “Have fun, be safe, be kind, and remember that this is a space for everyone.” These simple reminders lay the groundwork for an evening filled with positivity and encouragement.
The Healing Power of Skateboarding
There’s an undeniable therapeutic aspect to skateboarding. “As soon as I get on the board, I stop thinking about everything else,” Valdez remarks. It’s in these moments on their skateboards that worries fade, replaced by the thrill of gliding over concrete.
Skateboarding isn’t just about performing tricks; it’s about self-acceptance, bravery, and pushing boundaries. Carolina, who skates in her early 40s, reflects on what the sport has taught her. “It’s made me brave,” she states with conviction. “It’s okay to take up space, whether you’re a beginner or someone who’s still figuring it all out.”
A Sense of Belonging
As the women warm up, they chat and share stories—bonding over not just skateboarding, but life itself. They introduce themselves, share their favorite lunch spots, and giggle at shared experiences. It’s this camaraderie that keeps bringing them back.
Sonya Herrera is among the skaters who grew up inspired by the sport but felt a distinct lack of representation. “Not seeing anyone like me made me really nervous,” she shares. Yet now, skating brings her immense joy. “It feels like giving my childhood self something back,” she smiles.
For many, skateboarding has become a reprieve from their routines. Brii explains, “When I’m pushing my kid in a stroller, I’m simultaneously skating. You need a way to decompress.” In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding that escape—whether through a group skate or an individual session—is essential for mental clarity and well-being.
Building Skills and Confidence
As the sun sets, the group takes turns tackling various obstacles and honing skills. Morgan, a young skater, practices dropping in with guidance from Brii. In these moments, the experience transcends mere practice; it becomes a lesson in resilience.
Brii encourages, “Every fall is a step closer to learning something new.” Each attempt filled with laughter and a hint of nervousness showcases the joy of learning in a supportive space. The camaraderie fosters a sense of belonging that many in the group once craved.
What This Community Means
Eventually, they wrap up their group skate session, stopping for a photo op to capture the joy and sisterhood they’ve built. As skaters line up, the laughter echoed behind them creates an unforgettable melody—a beautiful reminder of what community looks like.
Reflecting on the experience, Valdez states, “This is just one way for us to connect with ourselves and each other.” The group’s journey highlights how essential it is to carve out time for play, empowerment, and connection, especially in challenging times.
Personal Reflections
In a world where women often seek spaces where they can be authentic and vulnerable, Swirl Austin represents a beacon of hope and a platform for changing the narrative around women in sports. It’s not just about skills on a skateboard; it’s about friendships formed and barriers broken.
This initiative offers lessons in representation and inclusion, reminding us all of the power of community. Whether you’re struggling to find your footing in a new city, yearning for friendship, or simply seeking a way to escape the daily grind, this group illustrates the profound impact that a shared passion can have.
At the end of the day, it’s about more than skateboarding; it’s about celebrating each woman’s unique journey and creating an environment where everyone feels they belong. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your board, take a leap, and join a community that celebrates and uplifts everyone, one push at a time.
