TALENT PATHWAY / PIPELINE

Skateboard GB (SBGB) is the UK-wide governing body for skateboarding with responsibility for Olympic skateboarding and the talent pathway, in addition to grassroots skateboarding in England. SBGB has been awarded funding via UK Sports Progression Investment stream to test, trial and build a pathway that identifies and supports skateboarders to grow, develop and aim for success on the World Stage. SBGB believes that in order to support our skateboarders we must be aware of and sensitive to the culture of skateboarding. Culture is important in skateboarding as it creates a sense of belonging, celebrates individuality and creativity. Being a part of this culture gives skateboarders a sense of pride and camaraderie. It also preserves history and traditions, and understanding this history helps skateboarders connect to their roots and appreciate the legacy they are inheriting. Skateboarding also fosters a supportive community, and provides a platform for self-expression where innovation and personal growth are highly valued. It is an essential part of what makes skateboarding more than just a sport but also a way of life for many skateboarders.

Pipeline began in August 2021 as a Pilot to support talented skaters, with Graystone Action Sports, Mount Hawke, Baysixty6 and Flo Skatepark acting as Hub Skateparks. Further pilots took place between 2022-24 with changes made based on feedback from skateboarders and their support networks. As a result, significant insight has been gathered and a developed programme of support has been created. Currently Pipeline runs for 9 months from September to May via six Hubs across the UK.

THE OFFER

Skateboard GB invites applications from skateboarders with aspirations to develop and progress and are keen to compete in ‘Street’ or ‘Park’ to Pipeline.

Mentoring through a designated Hub Skatepark Lead & technical support
A calendar of skateboarding events and an opportunity to prepare for these with coach support
Exclusive access to their Pipeline Hub Skateparks to skate
Free entry to each of the Pipeline Hub Skateparks
A community for Skateboarders to be part of
A potential to journey through to the next level of the pathway

SKATEBOARDER COMMITMENT

The Pipeline Project 2023-24 will launch in July 2023 and is open to applications from Skateboarders for a period of 4 weeks. The programme is still in a trial phase and will be offered for FREE at this time.

The Selection Panel will meet in August 2023 to review applications and select Skateboarders to the programme.

The Programme will be begin in September 2023 and run for 9 months until the end of May 2024.

Once the 2023-24 Pipeline Project closes at the end of May, Skateboarders will be informed as to how to apply for the next season.

Skateboarders should be prepared to commit to the following:

Attend frequent sessions (typically fortnightly) at their designated Hub Skatepark
Be self-driven and display a commitment to progress and compete
Take part in skateboarding events during the programme