A brand-new sports facility has opened its doors as the Island’s home of ‘tricking’ moves to a bigger premises in Cowes.
The sport — which has been around since the 1960s — is gaining in popularity around the world and has its own culture and global community.
Founders and Islanders Robbie Bates and Katharine Dancy — both coaches of the sport — passionately believe in the transformative power of tricking, particularly for neuro-diverse children who might be struggling in mainstream school.
The move to a new premises will allow much needed space and flexibility for WightTricks, which currently boasts a waiting list of almost 1,000 children.
It’s been an expensive process helped by crowdfunding via gofundme.
Katharine says:
"A few surprises have come up (during the move), unexpected hurdles between the old and new buildings - so that’s hit us financially.
"The Island community has rallied round, people have donated money and expertise in helping us get things ready in just under a fortnight.
"Lots of the kids are neurodiverse, with many having ADHD and autism, (which often sees them) struggle in school.
"School is not a great environment for them, and when they come here they can be themselves."
He said:
"I love the new floor at the gym, it’s really nice and soft so when I want to go for tricks, I can get the height and bounce right off it.
"I really like the cafe and the chill-out space at the top where I can watch other people trick."
WightTricks plans to host international competitions at the new gym, with the goal of putting the Island firmly on the map as a home of tricking.