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February 22, 2008
Ask the Pro: So You Want To Be Sponsored?
Interstate member Brad Asked the Pro: Hey guys... ok so here's my question... What can a skater do to get noticed by some companies/skateshops?
Gary Smith (interstate Pro): If you love skateboarding as much as I do and want to live “under the radar” of society, then being sponsored may be the perfect “non” job to have. There are certain requirements for this position. It doesn’t happen the same for everyone.
For me, I rode for a local shop and got hooked up by the rep. I sent him footy and he passed it off to the team manager. This is how I got on Volcom years ago.
This isn’t the only way to get hooked up. You can enter local contest and work your way up to Tampa Am (remember you need to place good in all them). Best trick contest are also good, but be ready to rip and deal with 100 other kids who are just as good as you.
If you’re not a contest skater and puke every time they call your name that’s ok. There are other tactics you can try. Here are a few of them.
1. Fly to California and one up every trick done on El Toro or Hollywood High.
2. Post tons of good footy on Youtube.com
3. Send your favorite company edited footage and be persistent on calling but don’t go overboard with it. Remember to ride only the companies’ products in your footy. (You don’t want to send a video to Emerica and be wearing Vans)
4. Even if you’re as good as Marc Johnson it won’t matter unless you keep a good head on your shoulders. Nobody wants to hang out with a conceded crybaby.
5. Style is very important also. The quality of the trick is more impressive then the quantity of the tricks done.
These are just a few ways to make your dreams come true. If doesn’t happen right away don’t sweat it, McDonalds is always hiring. If you read that last sentence and are laughing, chances are you’ll be ok. Don’t take skateboarding that serious and remember why you do it.
BECAUSE IT’S FUUUUUN!
GSmith
Have a question that needs a Pro's perspective? Post it at Ask the Pro. If we use it Interstate will send you some free gear!
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