Featured Participants

What has the adaptive skateboard program meant to Marshall and your family?

Ability Skateboarding has opened up a whole new world for Marshall and our family. It’s not just a program—it’s a celebration of inclusion, confidence, and joy. At events like those held at The Espee in San Antonio and the North Houston Skatepark, Marshall was welcomed with kindness, encouraged by peers, and treated like one of the group. His disability wasn’t a barrier—it was simply part of the ride.

These weekends became unforgettable adventures, filled with new friendships and amazing moments. For Marshall, it’s been about growth, excitement, and freedom. And for us, it’s been about seeing our youngest—our sixth child—embraced by a community that uplifts and empowers every skater.

Growing up, Marshall watched his older siblings zip around on scooters, roller blades, and skateboards. His brother Matthew especially loved cruising in Heelies and catching smooth rides. Now, Marshall’s excited to finally be part of the scene. Ability Skating connected him with a circle of creative, determined, and welcoming skateboarders. It’s given him a sense of belonging and a chance to build skills in a culture full of positive vibes.

What is Marshall’s favorite thing about skateboarding?

Marshall’s favorite thing about skateboarding is hitting the curved ramp full speed, soaring up, then dropping back down in a spin that leaves him buzzing. You can see the joy in his smile and the way his eyes light up. It is the perfect mix of speed and motion. 

He enjoys adapted tricks like riding the rail, going up and down the ramp, or performing the 180, nailing that half spin with confidence and flair. Sure, his setup might look different from your average skater’s, but the hype, the hustle, and the joy are every bit as real.

Whether he’s climbing up ramps or carving around curves, he’s all about turning energy into movement and movement into magic. On top of that, he thrived in WCMX—Wheelchair Motocross—where his passion and determination take center stage. For Marshall, skating isn’t just a sport; it’s how he expresses himself, pushing his boundaries and rewriting the rules with style and grace. Ability Skateboarding has made his dreams a reality.

Thanks to the confidence he’s gained, we’re planning on customizing a skateboard just for him. With a skatepark in our small hometown of Pleasanton, Texas, Marshall’s excited to improve his skills and become a part of the local skate culture.

How did Marshall feel about the Zumiez event and being in the Competition Jam portion?

He was thrilled. The Zumiez Competition Jam at The Espee felt like Marshall’s moment to shine. Surrounded by teens and young adults landing incredible tricks, he felt energized, supported, and celebrated. With the adapted skateboard, he joined the action and was treated as a true competitor, not just a participant.

Marshall found a place where he belongs. Every trick he tries, every laugh he shares, and every smile he beams reflect how included and inspired he felt that day. What you’ve built isn’t just cool—it’s deeply meaningful and unforgettable. 

 Any other words you would like to share?

To everyone who supports Ability Skateboarding, to all the volunteers and Zumiez for hosting this rad event at The Espee-thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You’ve built more than adapted skateboards, ramps, and rails-you’ve built courage, confidence, and community.

You’ve created a space where inclusion rolls naturally, joy comes with every push, and every skater—regardless of ability—is met with respect and celebration. Because of you, Marshall found his place. He felt seen, supported, and stoked to skate alongside fellow skaters who welcomed him in.

Thanks to your generosity and kindness,  Marshall’s ready to lace up again and keep chasing the joy you helped him discover.