Today we’d like to introduce you to Django Fox. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Austin Skate Academy was founded by Max Jang and Django Fox in 2020. It started as a simple idea for engaging the local state community, inspiring the youth, and providing a safe place for people of all ages to begin skateboarding. Max and I both grew up skating in the streets and parks of Austin, TX, and we understood the challenges of learning to skate here. The skatepark can often be intimidating, so we founded Austin Skate Academy to bridge the gap for beginners and reduce some of the intimidation associated with the skatepark. We’ve offered private lessons and summer camps since the first year, and now we have a client base of 500+ students in the Austin area.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
When we entered the market in 2020, we were the only company in Austin currently offering skate lessons. No-Comply skate shop, based in Austin, TX, helped us get a foot in the door. They are located directly next to the skatepark and have received dozens of requests through the years for private lessons. Max Jang worked at No-Comply and saw the demand for lessons. One afternoon we decided to form an LLC and start offering skateboard lessons, launched a website, and the rest is history. We have not spent much time or money on marketing, and due to our fantastic client base, and word of mouth, we have continued expanding at a consistent and manageable rate.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Austin Skate Academy is a service-based business offering private skateboard lessons, group lessons, summer camps, and birthday parties. We will start after-school programs starting in the Fall of 2023. Our focus is to provide a safe environment for students to learn how to skateboard. All of our coaches are recognized and known amongst the Austin skate scene, and the whole community supports our work. When a client chooses to have a lesson at the skatepark, the community responds by giving the teacher and the student’s plenty of room to practice.
Skateboarding has grown and is now a remarkably open and accepting environment. While there are plenty of tricks and disciplines to learn in skateboarding, we also teach skatepark etiquette. Austin Skate Academy is a way to introduce students to the skatepark, teach them ways to stay safe, and have them leave with a newfound sense of confidence and ability. Skateboarding has an extreme barrier to entry. Thousands of falls before anyone is proficient. We attempt to minimize risk, maximize inspiration, and provide tools that students can use in daily life and years to come. Persistence, discipline, consistency, and courage are just some of the many themes students can learn through the skateboard. Max and I have learned many life skills through skateboarding experience, and we hope to share that with as many people as possible.
What do you think about luck?
Fortunately, luck has not played a significant role in our success. Before Austin Skate Academy, Max and I were established in the community. However, we are lucky to have the relationship we do with the No-Comply skate shop. They constantly advocate for us and refer us to new clients. Calvin Millar, an extremely talented videographer in the Austin area, has also helped play a role in our success with various marketing materials through the years.
Contact Info:
- Website: austinskate.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austinskateacademy/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/austinskateacademy/
Image Credits
Brandon Hill
