Progress Skateboard Camp Midder – Unbelievable Energy!

Sunday was, as every year, dedicated to introductions and getting to know each other – both the team and the camp participants. This year, however, was special because we welcomed guests from the USA – American coach Ian Kirk and his riders Finn and Stefan. From the very first meeting, it was clear that this crew would bring something new – fresh energy and inspiration for everyone.

Monday was all about finding the right spot to skate. In Liptovský Mikuláš, the classic Monday park was waiting for us, but the morning brought rain that covered 90% of Slovakia. We needed a backup plan – the choice fell on the Košice skatepark under the bridge, a new project by Tlakbeton. The journey turned into an adventure, with storms and dark clouds following us, but once we arrived, we found a surprise: the park was completely dry and ready! After a dynamic warm-up, we split into groups by level and got to work. Beginners practiced the basics, intermediates tried ollies on ledges, manuals, and flips, while the most advanced riders – Dorotka, Zara, Stefan, and Finn – dominated the park and tackled the street rail. The day ended with a contest for the highest and longest ollie, won by Oliver after a thrilling battle.

Tuesday belonged to the Martin skatepark. The weather finally improved, and we worked hard from the early morning. Small ramps were used for learning basics like rock-n-roll, tail stall, 50-50, or 5-0. On the rails and flat bars, riders trained boardslides, while on the flat ground the guys practiced flips, varials, and heelflips. In the big section, Jakub Sluka, Finn, and cameraman Marek Janoušek showed off some serious bangers. We wrapped up the day with our tradition – Italian pasta at Pizzeria Eden.

Wednesday was supposed to be a rest day, but the campers’ energy wouldn’t allow it – once again, Liptovský Mikuláš came alive. We saw great tricks on the legendary rails, and Finn landed the big street rail at the old cinema for the very first time, which brought huge excitement. We then moved on to a spot at a loading ramp for drops and ollies, and finally ended at the 5-stair set in the city center, where Dorotka, Zorka, and Oliver all managed to clear it.

Thursday – Return to Martin, a Day of Big Progress

After the so-called “rest day,” the campers came back with full power. Martin welcomed everyone with open arms, and it was clear that everyone had found their flow. Dorotka was attacking rails up and down with ease and determination. Maxo Strelecký learned a brand-new 50-50 grind on boxes, which he immediately took to the rails – a moment that deserves real respect.

Meanwhile, Oliver, Robin, and Artur kept flipping – kickflips, heelflips, flicks – the park was full of boards snapping and cheers of joy when tricks landed. The biggest highlight was Oliver, who throughout the camp was showing incredible height and distance in his jumps. On Thursday, he proved it once again and earned huge praise. This day was living proof that campers can push beyond their limits when energy meets determination.

Friday – The Finale in Poprad

The last day of camp carried a truly special vibe. Everyone felt that the grand finale was coming. In Poprad, we filmed final lines – Zara, Dorotka, both Maxos, Teo, Finn, and Axel showcased everything they had learned throughout the week. It was pure joy to watch how each rider progressed, from the basics to difficult combinations.

For the closing ceremony, we returned to Liptovský Mikuláš to sum up the entire week. Special awards went to Zara and Oliver – the biggest surprises of the camp. Their progress, determination, and energy left a lasting impression on everyone.

Conclusion

We rate this camp as one of the best ever. The energy was incredible, the kids’ progress was massive, and the vibe was unstoppable. A huge part of this was thanks to the American crew, who brought fresh air and a whole new level of skateboarding to Slovakia.

Big thanks to all campers, the organizing team, and our partners:
Kaufland, Intersport, Sportby, Nhabe, Boardlife, Newspirit, Kulíšek, Balance board, Recwood, Switchboards, Hoity Toity Skateboards, Pizzeria Eden, JS Production.