Skateboarding

2026

Applications for the 2025/26 intake are now CLOSED.

To be notified when the next intake opens, click here to register your interest.

The HAS Skateboarding Program is endorsed and supported by Skate Australia. The program plays a vital role in identifying, monitoring, and developing the skills of young skateboarders across the Central Coast region. Athletes selected into the program will have the opportunity to develop their technical skills, gain competition experience, and access expert coaching and education to assist them in becoming a holistic athlete.

Athlete Benefits

The following benefits will apply to those selected for the skateboarding high-performance program:

6 Skill Development Sessions Focused on mulitple disciplines
Strength and Conditioning Testing and Review
6 weeks of group Strength & Conditioning Program, followed by 12 weeks of High-Performance access.
Athlete Education in Topics such as Nutrition, Sports Psychology, Motivation, Leadership and Load Management
Access to Specialised Coaches
Your Local Club Academy Games Tournament (Selected Athletes Only)
Access to recommended HAS providers such as Physiotherapy & Podiatry
Access to HAS Merchandise

Eligibility

To be eligible for selection in the 2025 program athletes must:

Athletes must be turning 10 to 17 years (born 2015 -2008) in 2025.
Athletes must reside or attend school in the HAS catchment area

Selection Process

All athletes will be selected by a selection panel.

Program Information

Up to 10 athletes aged 10–17 years will be selected into the 2025–26 squad. The program runs annually from October to April, with training sessions focused on individual skill progression in both street and park disciplines. Athletes will also participate in monthly skate skill sessions, providing opportunities to showcase their progression and test themselves in a competitive environment.

HAS Skateboarding athletes will also be encouraged to participate in the Jackalope Block Party hosted by Newcastle City council at Newcastle Skatepark on Newcastle Beach November 14th and 15th.

Program Staff

Head Coach : George Richards

George is a professional skateboarder and high performance skateboard coach from Newcastle NSW.

George has 10+ of high performance coaching experience including managing Olympic pathways programs overseas and 20 years of skateboarding experience including representing Australia’s Olympic Qualifying team at multiple world championships.