Skating is a prominent feature on campus whether it is to quickly move to different parts of campus or just a fun way to burn some time. 

Colorado Mesa University’s flat topography and ample abundance of sidewalks provide a very skate-friendly surface. 

A community of skaters can frequently be seen performing tricks and socializing on the basketball court lodged between Mary Rait Hall and the Walnut Ridge Apartments.

“[Skating] is basically a hobby. It really helps me cope and just clear my head. My whole life I have just liked going fast and doing kind of dangerous things and skating is definitely part of that,” sophomore welding major John Rapp said.

Rapp’s amiable demeanor and impressive ability befriended others who now regularly skate on the court. The group influences and helps each other master varying skateboarding tricks.

“I like skating because it is individual, and you can really push yourself but you do not have to worry about competing with others. I only knew like three people when I came up here so I skated around campus a little bit and saw who else could also really skate. I started talking to [Rapp] and overall, it is a good community,” freshman welding major Nick Davis said.