There are tons of updates and current events going down in the skateboarding industry at the moment but none of them I feel have more of an effect or impact than the passing of Van Wastell. A fellow brother, a skateboarder, and an idol too many.

When I heard the news it came to me as a complete shock. I seriously could not believe it; I was hoping it was somebody’s idea of a sick joke. But it was as real as the cement we skate on. Information has not been released as to how exactly he died. I just keep hearing the same brief story of a hotel in Berlin and a fall.

In respects to Van Wastell I hope they keep that information well hidden amongst themselves. Van was an incredible skateboarder and he always seemed tough as nails. His style was amazing, always cruising the streets like he owned them. He would turn the atmosphere and city around him into his own skatepark. He was super fun to watch and in my book one of the gnarliest skateboarders of all time.

It almost seems as though death has been creeping up on the skateboarding industry lately. It’s scary to think how insane and death defying the stunts are these days, almost giving no regard as to how fragile life really is. We as skateboarders have to stick together and look out for one another. We lost another soldier and as his skate brother we must make an oath to honor him, never forget his legacy, and watch out for one another. More than ever we need to cherish life and appreciate each day we have and the moments on earth we have together. Today we should all go out and dedicate our skateboarding session to Van Wastell.

This ones for you Van!!! This ones for you.

Posted by Ruben 'Studdard' Najera on Monday, September 8th, 2008 in Skateboarding.

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