“I know not all that may be coming, but be it what it will, I'll go to it laughing.” —Herman Melville

Sometimes in life, opportunity comes knocking. When it does, it is often best to answer the door. A close friend, one that I grew up skateboarding with, called me recently with a job proposal. He wanted to know if I was interested in joining him on a commercial fishing boat in Bristol Bay, Alaska. He has voyaged there for the previous six years seeking salmon in the cold Bering Sea. It took me no time at all to accept. After a confirmation call with the captain, flights were booked, gear was purchased, and anticipation grew.

As a skateboarder, I have always felt a strong desire to explore the unknown. It is an immense world out there, with many glorious places to skate and genuine people to meet. Despite the fact that this excursion will lack my board, I will approach it with the same enthusiasm. I hope to learn a new skill in one of the most scenic states in our country. With all of the events of recent times, I believe that reconnecting with nature will allow me to better understand myself and what is important in my life.

I understand that this endeavor will be intense and that I will be a novice in a strange environment. I had an identical feeling the first time I went to a skatepark. However, I believe that Melville’s quote is the perfect mantra for this trip. I have no way of knowing what will happen next, but I will push forward with a smile on my face and a positive attitude in my mind. Come to think of it, this approach should be applied to how we begin each day.

Everyone in the Champ Camp family will be in my thoughts while I am away. In closing, I have one request of you all. If you can do so safely, go outside now to skate, surf, or bike for me. Two months is a long time to be away from the things that I love, so partake of them on my behalf. I will see you in August my friends!

-Coach Elliott

For My Next Trick, I Will Be Jumping From the Board to the Boat!