Robyn Reelick, Skate mum and club fundraiser
Many sporting journeys begin in unexpected ways. It may be a Saturday morning Learn to Skate session, a friend's birthday party at the rink, or a parent sitting rink-side watching their child skate and deciding to give it a go themselves. Whatever their starting point, the skaters of Nelson Artistic Roller Skating Club have found a passion that has become a significant part of their lives.
Our club is a small but dedicated group of young athletes who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their sport. Many begin their day with a 6:30am training session before school and return to the rink after classes to continue refining their skills. Their dedication is driven by personal goals, a love of skating, and the opportunity to compete at regional and national levels, including the New Zealand Artistic Roller Skating Championships. For some athletes, these competitions provide a pathway to represent New Zealand internationally.
Artistic Roller Skating is a unique sport that combines athleticism, creativity, discipline, and performance. Skaters can participate in a range of disciplines including figures, freeskating, dance, quartets, precision, and group show skating. The sport promotes physical fitness, resilience, confidence, time management, and goal setting, while providing athletes with a strong sense of achievement and belonging.
Beyond the sporting benefits, Nelson Artistic Roller Skating Club plays an important role in developing young leaders. Our club operates on a supportive "big sister, little sister" culture where older skaters mentor and encourage younger members. As athletes progress through the club, they have opportunities to complete coaching accreditation and assist with our Saturday morning Learn to Skate programme. This creates a sustainable pathway where experienced skaters give back to the club by helping develop the next generation of participants.
The Learn to Skate programme is often a child's first introduction to sport and physical activity. It provides a safe, welcoming environment where children can build confidence, develop fundamental movement skills, and form lasting friendships. Through the commitment of our volunteer coaches and senior skaters, we continue to grow participation and create opportunities for young people within our community.
