Earlier this year OnTheWight reported that Isle of Wight skateboarding hero, John Cattle, had been shortlisted for a Positive Role Model Award.
Tonight (Friday) John will be heading to Liverpool as a finalist in the National Diversity Awards 2016.
Teaching over 200 people each week
John runs Wight Trash Skateboard company and skate club, teaching over 200 people, from the ages of four to adults, skateboarding every week.
Over 20,000 nominations and votes were received this year, paying tribute to grass root communities nationwide.
John was selected for Positive Role Model within the category of age, as he is seen to be fully inclusive in the way that he teaches skateboarding, for all age groups and abilities.
Overwhelming to be a finalist
John said,
“To be nominated for this type of award was quite a shock and to be chosen by the judges as a finalist is pretty overwhelming.”
He went on to say,
“My goal is and always has been for as many people to enjoy skateboarding as possible.
“Over the last couple of years my skate club has expanded meaning that I now run sessions for many adults, as well as all the skate kids. No one is ever too old, with people well into their 60s coming along to learn.
“I’d like to think that I will still be skating by the time I reach that age too!”
No-one is too old
Although the category that John has been selected for is age, John is committed to teaching anyone to skate regardless of ability. He went onto say
“One of the most rewarding things at skate club has been being able to expand the sessions for children and adults with additional needs and disability. I just get to know the person that walks in wanting to skate, and I teach them.
“If they don’t speak English, if they have hearing loss, autism, if they are 70 years old, or four years old, if they have physical disability, or mental health issues… they come in and they go out being able to skate.
“I am very lucky to be able to see people grow in confidence and overcome their fears about it, after a lesson they feel a sense of achievement and have had a load of fun too. To be able to do this as a job is awesome.”
Paul Sesay, Founder of The National Diversity Awards said,
“The quality of nominations exceeds my expectations every year. This year was no exception with a host of inspirational role models and community organisations nominated across the country. Those shortlisted should be extremely proud.”
We’re keeping everything crossed for you tonight John, best of luck!
