New DEAL
New Deal was an important part of my childhood. After discovering skateboarding at 11 years old in 1987, I saw almost nothing but vert skateboarding for the first year or so, and whilst I of course wanted to blast 12 foot Christ Airs like Hosoi, there were no vert ramps anywhere near me, I didn't have any pads, and well, I was a fucking pussy. So, when videos started featuring more street stuff, what we had already naturally been doing started to be legitimised. Fuck yes! Of course we still wanted to do head-high McTwists, but finally our surfy kickflip shove-its were starting to make more sense. In addition to the Powell and Santa Cruz videos we first saw, World, H-Street, and New Deal came through and were the first videos that actually featured more street than vert?! It was the changing of the guard, and a move that blew the minds of a lot of a vert superstars - some choosing to try out this streetstyle shit, others powering on regardless hoping this childish fad would end, and others, well, losing their minds and doing things that nobody should ever fucking even think of doing - regardless of whether the kickflipping youth were quickly starting to take their royalties.
In our town of Newbury, Berkshire in England there were a total of 5 full-time skateboarders for the first couple of years, so when Ben Adams (a local 9 year old kid that had just found skateboarding) convinced his dad Tim to open a skate shop in 1990 - aptly named Benz - in our town, we were fucking stoked, and of course shocked at this ludicrous business decision. With a HEAVY New Deal influence in the shop, we were lucky enough to see the New Deal Promo video very early on, and were honoured to have not one, but two New Deal tours come to our small market town (Ed Templeton, Danny Sargent, Andrew Morrison, Steve Douglas, John Montesi and Armando Barajas all skated our local SHITTY spots). So when Steve hit me up to do micro interviews with all the original members of the team loosely based on our Back in the Spotlight series, how the fuck could I say no? Add to that the fact that I still get goosebumps whilst listening to the Odd Numbers, I jumped at the chance to rewatch the New Deal videos for a millionth time and think of some NudeEel related questions for these OGs.
R.I.P Tim Adams.
In our town of Newbury, Berkshire in England there were a total of 5 full-time skateboarders for the first couple of years, so when Ben Adams (a local 9 year old kid that had just found skateboarding) convinced his dad Tim to open a skate shop in 1990 - aptly named Benz - in our town, we were fucking stoked, and of course shocked at this ludicrous business decision. With a HEAVY New Deal influence in the shop, we were lucky enough to see the New Deal Promo video very early on, and were honoured to have not one, but two New Deal tours come to our small market town (Ed Templeton, Danny Sargent, Andrew Morrison, Steve Douglas, John Montesi and Armando Barajas all skated our local SHITTY spots). So when Steve hit me up to do micro interviews with all the original members of the team loosely based on our Back in the Spotlight series, how the fuck could I say no? Add to that the fact that I still get goosebumps whilst listening to the Odd Numbers, I jumped at the chance to rewatch the New Deal videos for a millionth time and think of some NudeEel related questions for these OGs.
R.I.P Tim Adams.
ANDY HOWELL
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
Calabasas CA, I make tech companies and art mostly...
When was your favourite era in skateboarding?
Late '80s early '90s is when I was most inspired and motivated to progress in skating. It was a time when most of the foundation for today’s skateboarding was unwritten, so I’m happy to have contributed to that.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
17th Street Surf Shop in Virginia Beach sponsored me initially, the guys reached out to me and I started their skate team, and then helped pick the skaters for the team who were mainly my friends and kids I saw coming up. The cool thing about it was that 17th gave me what they called “Unlimited Credit” which meant I could have anything i wanted at any time in the shop with no limits. Frankly it was too much, I got a lot of Gonz decks, surf stuff, Stussy gear, it was insane. Having a new skateboard whenever I needed it at 15 years old helped me progress quickly at that age. At the time I was still skating vert a lot but also street was taking over my life already. 17th and the Jones family helped push street skating forward in the area.
My first board sponsor was Santa Cruz, I was skating Trashmore every day at the time and I had entered some contests and done pretty well. I wrote a letter on lined school paper with my results and few snapshots by one of my friends, and sent it to the address for Santa Cruz in Thrasher. I had told my friends I did it and got joked heavily... We didn’t skate to get sponsored back then, in fact, until Trashmore sponsorship was not even considered. we used to joke each other if someone would even bring it up. Anyway, one day after sending that letter I got a call and my mom told me someone was on the phone called Rob Rawstop or something. I said “Rob Roskopp?” And she nodded yes. I picked up the phone in disbelief and he started talking...
“Andy? This is Rob Roskopp from Santa Cruz”
I thought, ‘yeah right, this is one of my friends playing a joke on me’
I said something like “yeah right! No it’s not! Is this Bushka? Charles?”
“No it’s Rob Roskopp. I got your letter, and we want to sponsor you. What kind of board do you want to ride?”
Still in disbelief, I replied sarcastically, “yours of course, dude!”. After a quick exchange we hung up. A few days later I got a sick package and it was on from there.
Who is your favourite skater of all time?
Gonz for street, Chris Miller for vert.
Are you still skating?
Yes, rolling around, though surfing a lot more nowadays. I will always skate if my body lets me. I surfed before I skated, and initially tried to emulate surfing on a skateboard on the boardwalk in Virginia Beach as a kid, so it feels natural to have gone back to surfing when I moved to California at the end of ‘93. I lived in the Bay Area for a few years and didn’t surf, but I got our place in Malibu in 2011 for the waves.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Definitely. I don’t always know who I’m following or watching a lot of the time, but I see skateboarding every day. There was a time in the 2000’s where I wasn’t following it as much, but recently I’ve been paying more attention. I’ve always done collabs and art projects with brands in skating though, so I’m always connected to it.
Calabasas CA, I make tech companies and art mostly...
When was your favourite era in skateboarding?
Late '80s early '90s is when I was most inspired and motivated to progress in skating. It was a time when most of the foundation for today’s skateboarding was unwritten, so I’m happy to have contributed to that.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
17th Street Surf Shop in Virginia Beach sponsored me initially, the guys reached out to me and I started their skate team, and then helped pick the skaters for the team who were mainly my friends and kids I saw coming up. The cool thing about it was that 17th gave me what they called “Unlimited Credit” which meant I could have anything i wanted at any time in the shop with no limits. Frankly it was too much, I got a lot of Gonz decks, surf stuff, Stussy gear, it was insane. Having a new skateboard whenever I needed it at 15 years old helped me progress quickly at that age. At the time I was still skating vert a lot but also street was taking over my life already. 17th and the Jones family helped push street skating forward in the area.
My first board sponsor was Santa Cruz, I was skating Trashmore every day at the time and I had entered some contests and done pretty well. I wrote a letter on lined school paper with my results and few snapshots by one of my friends, and sent it to the address for Santa Cruz in Thrasher. I had told my friends I did it and got joked heavily... We didn’t skate to get sponsored back then, in fact, until Trashmore sponsorship was not even considered. we used to joke each other if someone would even bring it up. Anyway, one day after sending that letter I got a call and my mom told me someone was on the phone called Rob Rawstop or something. I said “Rob Roskopp?” And she nodded yes. I picked up the phone in disbelief and he started talking...
“Andy? This is Rob Roskopp from Santa Cruz”
I thought, ‘yeah right, this is one of my friends playing a joke on me’
I said something like “yeah right! No it’s not! Is this Bushka? Charles?”
“No it’s Rob Roskopp. I got your letter, and we want to sponsor you. What kind of board do you want to ride?”
Still in disbelief, I replied sarcastically, “yours of course, dude!”. After a quick exchange we hung up. A few days later I got a sick package and it was on from there.
Who is your favourite skater of all time?
Gonz for street, Chris Miller for vert.
Are you still skating?
Yes, rolling around, though surfing a lot more nowadays. I will always skate if my body lets me. I surfed before I skated, and initially tried to emulate surfing on a skateboard on the boardwalk in Virginia Beach as a kid, so it feels natural to have gone back to surfing when I moved to California at the end of ‘93. I lived in the Bay Area for a few years and didn’t surf, but I got our place in Malibu in 2011 for the waves.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Definitely. I don’t always know who I’m following or watching a lot of the time, but I see skateboarding every day. There was a time in the 2000’s where I wasn’t following it as much, but recently I’ve been paying more attention. I’ve always done collabs and art projects with brands in skating though, so I’m always connected to it.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
I started the company with Paul and Steve In 1990, and was on for 2 years until I started Element in 1992, also with Paul and Steve, which was initially called Underworld Element. I rode for Element for close to 4 years I think.
Which of the videos you were in?
ND Promo, *Useless Wooden Toys, 1281, UE Promo, Skypager, Fine Artists Vol 1
What was your favourite video part of yours, and what was your favourite part of someone else?
I was stoked on my UWT and 1281 parts because I saw a lot of progression in them. Noseblunt variations, impossibles, mini ramp stuff, nollie variations. One of my parts I tried to do completely switchstance and nollie/nose, which hadn’t been done and was a personal challenge. I think that was Skypager.
Favorite video parts for others is hard to say because I liked so many and so many friends had rad parts, but the first that comes to mind are tied between Gonz's Blind Video Days part, Natas's Streets On Fire (as well as Natas's Speed Freaks, because I was on tour with him up and down the east coast during that time and I have a little cameo in the part), and then Tommy’s first Powell part. These were all monumental, and experiences I had with each of these three guys were crucial to me early on.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
CREATIVE FREEDOM
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
CREATIVE FREEDOM
Who was your favourite skater on the team and why?
Ed, because he was so creative on the board, so driven to improve, so kind to everyone, and when we started New Deal he brought all his creativity together into a look and feel that was uniquely him. At the time I didn’t realise how much of a modern day folk artist he was, but watching him evolve over the last 30 years as an artist has been inspiring. I still have his first painting.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Well it’s more of an experience, but on January 17th, 1994, at around 4:30am, Jose Gomez and I were pulling an all nighter graphics session at 1281 Logan. We were up on the 2nd floor working on the one graphics computer in the office. I was laying on my back on the floor partially sleeping and Jose was sitting in the chair by my feet on the computer working on something. At the time Jose and I would tag team art projects and also each draw graphics ourselves. Gorm was probably back in Sweden at the time. I was doing the ad copy and concepts and doing a lot of the ad layouts as well. I’m not sure what we were working on at the time.
About that time my body started convulsing like I was doing astral projection and about to detach from my physical body or something, sort of gyrating in waves from head to toe. I was realising in my dream something was wrong, and as the waves got stronger I sort of did an upside down worm and was thrown up to sitting up, waking up at the same time. Everything was shaking, and Jose looked over his right shoulder with his eyes wide as hell!
Almost simultaneously we said, “Earthquake!!”
We were both east coasters and had never been in an earthquake before, so we had no idea what to do. This was the big one, Northridge, and even though we had both heard some training at some point in our lives about standing in a doorway or something, we jumped down the two half flights of stairs to get to the ground floor, and ran straight out the front door.
Josh Friedberg (pretty sure it was Josh) was downstairs doing 411 shit, and he came out, freaked out as hell too.
The strongest vision I have is looking down Logan Avenue and seeing the street just rolling toward us like a set of waves. Everything was shaking and rattling and the trees and cement were moving radically like the ocean. It was surreal, as time stood still and seemed to go on forever at the same time. I think we were all in shock, and couldn’t really register what was happening fully. It was insane… and we weren’t even at the epicenter of the quake!
After a minute or so things seemed to go back to normal, and I think we even went back in and finished working for the night.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
It’s great. There has been so much pent up demand for New Deal. For over a decade we’ve been getting messages on Facebook and later Instagram, asking about bringing back New Deal.
I get messages about the dark Siamese brother of Element, Underworld, and also Sophisto, all the time. It seems like the early and mid nineties are particularly interesting to kids nowadays, like the late 60’s and 70’s were interesting to me as a kid. There’s something about those who pioneered new creative outlets, like art and music, and it's especially cool to look back and see the same spirit in those that came before us.
It’s always been in the back of my mind, but I’ve had a lot of different projects going on over the years, which have kept my time occupied. I also got married in 2005 and have kids, and all skater parents out there know how that can impact time to daydream about relaunching brands. Steve called me up one day in 2018 and reminded me that the 30 year anniversary of when we started New Deal was coming up in 2020.
At first I wasn’t super excited about the idea, because I’ve seen a lot of reissues and found most of them boring and lacking passion and creativity. I told Steve and Paul if you want to do something together again, we’ve got to make it creative and bring something interesting to collectors and the younger generation coming up as well. My thought was that it needed to be a full relaunch as well as a true-to-the-original reissue.
I felt we had to not only create beautiful reproductions of the work we initially did in 1990-1992, but also reimagine New Deal for today’s mindset, skaters, media outlets, etc. Also, Paul Steve and I have spent the last 20 years in completely different areas of business and culture. I’ve been mostly focused on art, branding, fashion, and technology, and so being able to bring decades of relationships and new thinking to the project allows me to see the industry with a fresh set of eyes. The results of what we all bring together today should be even better than before.
So advanced on the switchstance stuff. Were you ambidextrous in other areas of life?
I could play Lacrosse and hit a baseball equally from right and left side as a kid, and I think that made me think pretty early on that I could skate either way. I felt really comfortable riding backwards or forwards on a skateboard when I was 9 or 10 rolling around the driveways and street in my neighbourhood. I remember learning fakie ollies off of cracks in the sidewalk at a young age, although I still felt at that time as if I was rolling backwards, not skating switch and bumping off my front wheels. I would fakie ollie off the crack and still land on my back wheels which was sketchy because if I was rolling pretty fast and my board would squirrel out. I would try to land on my front wheels so that I could stabilize it. We’re talking like 1-2” off the ground and popping off the wheels, on a G&S Warptail 27” board, before the wide boards started hitting.
I had that vert mindset in my early teens, going fakie, not riding switch. Up until I hurt my knee at Lynnhaven and had to take a hiatus from vert around 14 or 15, street was just about styling out and cruising the boardwalk at the beach when the waves were flat. I had seen GSD doing boneless and other more vert and bank tricks on street, and would play around with it.
It wasn’t until I was down in Atlanta for art school that I started thinking about skating 'backwards', as I thought of it. I was 18 and this was around the fall of 1986 or 87. I had gotten a Rodney Mullen freestyle board back in high school and was doing some of the more basic fingerflips and rail stands, shove-its off the nose, etc., and I loved the way the smaller board with a nose and tail felt. I didn’t make the connection to get more nose until I started trying to come down fakie on flat ground wall rides, and then on jump ramps by popping off the nose while up on the wall, in order to get over the 2x4 lip of the jump ramp and back onto the transition without hanging up.
This was in 1986 and 87, while I was living in Atlanta. I was fully street then and rarely skated pools and vert, but I still had the sensibilities of skating vertical walls and tight transitions and was starting to develop my own variations of tricks to manipulate banks and walls around the city.
I started doing some of those as an amateur when I snuck out onto the practice session at the first Savannah Slamma, in I think '87. Neil Blender and Gonz were skating with me, and I had already skated with both of those guys before in Cali. I did a couple of those straight up wall rides to fakie popping off the wall on my nose, which in retrospect was a nollie, and I would land back into the jump ramp and roll out backwards. I was also doing backside grabs behind my foot and pulling off to fakie on the ramp, and frontside airs jumping back into the ramp. No one else was doing that, all I saw were these big arching wall rides pulling off and landing on the flat, which was known already at the time. Neil or Gonz called Tony over and said check out this thing Andy’s doing on the wall. Tony came and we sessioned the wall for a while and he started doing front side airs back in. Gonz started doing frontside airs too. No one else did the nollie if I remember correctly.
During that practice Stacy came up and asked me if I was going to skate the contest, and I told him I didn’t think so. I didn’t have a board sponsor at the time, and my deck was busted. I was hoping somehow he was going to put me on Powell, as I had reached out to him, and also Natas about getting on SMA just before the contest. I didn’t skate the contest and didn’t get on Powell or SMA (although I got pretty close with Natas and still have the artwork I made for the model that didn’t happen. And thank goodness it didn’t!) The next contest was Velodrome in Carson, and that’s where I turned pro, slid the wall, and Paul asked me to skate for him.
On Schmitt and New Deal I continued to evolve those tricks and by the end of ‘89 I was doing a lot of them pretty well. I was skating at home in Atlanta with my crew there, and many of them were also doing similar if not better tricks a lot of the time. I was able to progress kind of undetected, because I was the only one at the time leaving Atlanta to go skate pro contests. I would bring the tricks I was doing with my friends and be able to do something new and innovative at every contest and demo I went to.
The videos for New Deal show the progression as mentioned.
Who was your main inspiration with the switch tricks ?
Rodney was the only one I had ever seen doing things that could be considered switch when I started messing with it. Later on I liked to see what Natas, Gonz, and then Salman, and then later Cairo Foster we’re doing because I liked their styles. I got a lot of inspiration from Gonz throughout skating from the first time I skated with him for a week at Marty Jimenez’ house in HB, to the time I saw him imagining the nose blunt for the first time in Hawaii. I don’t know if he made it on that trip, but I went home and did it a million times until I did. Then I put it through the Howell filter and did a lot of variations of it. At some point I did an entire video part switch and nollie, as I mentioned before, and a lot of people thought I fell off until they realised I was first regular footed. Good times...
I started the company with Paul and Steve In 1990, and was on for 2 years until I started Element in 1992, also with Paul and Steve, which was initially called Underworld Element. I rode for Element for close to 4 years I think.
Which of the videos you were in?
ND Promo, *Useless Wooden Toys, 1281, UE Promo, Skypager, Fine Artists Vol 1
What was your favourite video part of yours, and what was your favourite part of someone else?
I was stoked on my UWT and 1281 parts because I saw a lot of progression in them. Noseblunt variations, impossibles, mini ramp stuff, nollie variations. One of my parts I tried to do completely switchstance and nollie/nose, which hadn’t been done and was a personal challenge. I think that was Skypager.
Favorite video parts for others is hard to say because I liked so many and so many friends had rad parts, but the first that comes to mind are tied between Gonz's Blind Video Days part, Natas's Streets On Fire (as well as Natas's Speed Freaks, because I was on tour with him up and down the east coast during that time and I have a little cameo in the part), and then Tommy’s first Powell part. These were all monumental, and experiences I had with each of these three guys were crucial to me early on.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
CREATIVE FREEDOM
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
CREATIVE FREEDOM
Who was your favourite skater on the team and why?
Ed, because he was so creative on the board, so driven to improve, so kind to everyone, and when we started New Deal he brought all his creativity together into a look and feel that was uniquely him. At the time I didn’t realise how much of a modern day folk artist he was, but watching him evolve over the last 30 years as an artist has been inspiring. I still have his first painting.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Well it’s more of an experience, but on January 17th, 1994, at around 4:30am, Jose Gomez and I were pulling an all nighter graphics session at 1281 Logan. We were up on the 2nd floor working on the one graphics computer in the office. I was laying on my back on the floor partially sleeping and Jose was sitting in the chair by my feet on the computer working on something. At the time Jose and I would tag team art projects and also each draw graphics ourselves. Gorm was probably back in Sweden at the time. I was doing the ad copy and concepts and doing a lot of the ad layouts as well. I’m not sure what we were working on at the time.
About that time my body started convulsing like I was doing astral projection and about to detach from my physical body or something, sort of gyrating in waves from head to toe. I was realising in my dream something was wrong, and as the waves got stronger I sort of did an upside down worm and was thrown up to sitting up, waking up at the same time. Everything was shaking, and Jose looked over his right shoulder with his eyes wide as hell!
Almost simultaneously we said, “Earthquake!!”
We were both east coasters and had never been in an earthquake before, so we had no idea what to do. This was the big one, Northridge, and even though we had both heard some training at some point in our lives about standing in a doorway or something, we jumped down the two half flights of stairs to get to the ground floor, and ran straight out the front door.
Josh Friedberg (pretty sure it was Josh) was downstairs doing 411 shit, and he came out, freaked out as hell too.
The strongest vision I have is looking down Logan Avenue and seeing the street just rolling toward us like a set of waves. Everything was shaking and rattling and the trees and cement were moving radically like the ocean. It was surreal, as time stood still and seemed to go on forever at the same time. I think we were all in shock, and couldn’t really register what was happening fully. It was insane… and we weren’t even at the epicenter of the quake!
After a minute or so things seemed to go back to normal, and I think we even went back in and finished working for the night.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
It’s great. There has been so much pent up demand for New Deal. For over a decade we’ve been getting messages on Facebook and later Instagram, asking about bringing back New Deal.
I get messages about the dark Siamese brother of Element, Underworld, and also Sophisto, all the time. It seems like the early and mid nineties are particularly interesting to kids nowadays, like the late 60’s and 70’s were interesting to me as a kid. There’s something about those who pioneered new creative outlets, like art and music, and it's especially cool to look back and see the same spirit in those that came before us.
It’s always been in the back of my mind, but I’ve had a lot of different projects going on over the years, which have kept my time occupied. I also got married in 2005 and have kids, and all skater parents out there know how that can impact time to daydream about relaunching brands. Steve called me up one day in 2018 and reminded me that the 30 year anniversary of when we started New Deal was coming up in 2020.
At first I wasn’t super excited about the idea, because I’ve seen a lot of reissues and found most of them boring and lacking passion and creativity. I told Steve and Paul if you want to do something together again, we’ve got to make it creative and bring something interesting to collectors and the younger generation coming up as well. My thought was that it needed to be a full relaunch as well as a true-to-the-original reissue.
I felt we had to not only create beautiful reproductions of the work we initially did in 1990-1992, but also reimagine New Deal for today’s mindset, skaters, media outlets, etc. Also, Paul Steve and I have spent the last 20 years in completely different areas of business and culture. I’ve been mostly focused on art, branding, fashion, and technology, and so being able to bring decades of relationships and new thinking to the project allows me to see the industry with a fresh set of eyes. The results of what we all bring together today should be even better than before.
So advanced on the switchstance stuff. Were you ambidextrous in other areas of life?
I could play Lacrosse and hit a baseball equally from right and left side as a kid, and I think that made me think pretty early on that I could skate either way. I felt really comfortable riding backwards or forwards on a skateboard when I was 9 or 10 rolling around the driveways and street in my neighbourhood. I remember learning fakie ollies off of cracks in the sidewalk at a young age, although I still felt at that time as if I was rolling backwards, not skating switch and bumping off my front wheels. I would fakie ollie off the crack and still land on my back wheels which was sketchy because if I was rolling pretty fast and my board would squirrel out. I would try to land on my front wheels so that I could stabilize it. We’re talking like 1-2” off the ground and popping off the wheels, on a G&S Warptail 27” board, before the wide boards started hitting.
I had that vert mindset in my early teens, going fakie, not riding switch. Up until I hurt my knee at Lynnhaven and had to take a hiatus from vert around 14 or 15, street was just about styling out and cruising the boardwalk at the beach when the waves were flat. I had seen GSD doing boneless and other more vert and bank tricks on street, and would play around with it.
It wasn’t until I was down in Atlanta for art school that I started thinking about skating 'backwards', as I thought of it. I was 18 and this was around the fall of 1986 or 87. I had gotten a Rodney Mullen freestyle board back in high school and was doing some of the more basic fingerflips and rail stands, shove-its off the nose, etc., and I loved the way the smaller board with a nose and tail felt. I didn’t make the connection to get more nose until I started trying to come down fakie on flat ground wall rides, and then on jump ramps by popping off the nose while up on the wall, in order to get over the 2x4 lip of the jump ramp and back onto the transition without hanging up.
This was in 1986 and 87, while I was living in Atlanta. I was fully street then and rarely skated pools and vert, but I still had the sensibilities of skating vertical walls and tight transitions and was starting to develop my own variations of tricks to manipulate banks and walls around the city.
I started doing some of those as an amateur when I snuck out onto the practice session at the first Savannah Slamma, in I think '87. Neil Blender and Gonz were skating with me, and I had already skated with both of those guys before in Cali. I did a couple of those straight up wall rides to fakie popping off the wall on my nose, which in retrospect was a nollie, and I would land back into the jump ramp and roll out backwards. I was also doing backside grabs behind my foot and pulling off to fakie on the ramp, and frontside airs jumping back into the ramp. No one else was doing that, all I saw were these big arching wall rides pulling off and landing on the flat, which was known already at the time. Neil or Gonz called Tony over and said check out this thing Andy’s doing on the wall. Tony came and we sessioned the wall for a while and he started doing front side airs back in. Gonz started doing frontside airs too. No one else did the nollie if I remember correctly.
During that practice Stacy came up and asked me if I was going to skate the contest, and I told him I didn’t think so. I didn’t have a board sponsor at the time, and my deck was busted. I was hoping somehow he was going to put me on Powell, as I had reached out to him, and also Natas about getting on SMA just before the contest. I didn’t skate the contest and didn’t get on Powell or SMA (although I got pretty close with Natas and still have the artwork I made for the model that didn’t happen. And thank goodness it didn’t!) The next contest was Velodrome in Carson, and that’s where I turned pro, slid the wall, and Paul asked me to skate for him.
On Schmitt and New Deal I continued to evolve those tricks and by the end of ‘89 I was doing a lot of them pretty well. I was skating at home in Atlanta with my crew there, and many of them were also doing similar if not better tricks a lot of the time. I was able to progress kind of undetected, because I was the only one at the time leaving Atlanta to go skate pro contests. I would bring the tricks I was doing with my friends and be able to do something new and innovative at every contest and demo I went to.
The videos for New Deal show the progression as mentioned.
Who was your main inspiration with the switch tricks ?
Rodney was the only one I had ever seen doing things that could be considered switch when I started messing with it. Later on I liked to see what Natas, Gonz, and then Salman, and then later Cairo Foster we’re doing because I liked their styles. I got a lot of inspiration from Gonz throughout skating from the first time I skated with him for a week at Marty Jimenez’ house in HB, to the time I saw him imagining the nose blunt for the first time in Hawaii. I don’t know if he made it on that trip, but I went home and did it a million times until I did. Then I put it through the Howell filter and did a lot of variations of it. At some point I did an entire video part switch and nollie, as I mentioned before, and a lot of people thought I fell off until they realised I was first regular footed. Good times...
RON KNIGGE
Where are you living today and what is your current job?
New Jersey, USA. I’m a cake baker, move faker, and love maker.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
1988-1992:
· Mike V turns pro for Powell Peralta
· H-Street boys
· Sean Sheffey and the whole SHUT posse sets the east coast on fire
· The New Deal kicks corporate in the nuts
· Gonz leaves Vision to form Blind
· EMB and the whole SF scene explodes
· Plan B redefines what is possible
These 4 years were magic.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Blockhead flow team. Alyasha Owerka-Moore rode for them and hooked me up. He was my friend, and would always encourage me to skate and create.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Hands down, John Cardiel. I have never seen anyone ride a skateboard like him. No fear, pedal to the floor, absolute hell on wheels. He is also one of the nicest people you could ever meet. I have such vivid memories of him flying around cement parks in Australia at dizzying speed. Tweaked indy-airs while screaming like a banshee. He was so fucking rad.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
A bit of flat ground trickery here and there. I try to get a touch in when I can.
Do you still follow skateboarding – even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Yes. It is amazing what people are up to. The girls are ripping. Some of the hammers people are laying down are outrageous. It is so cool to watch current footage of people that I’ve skated with like Chris Pastras, Kris Markovich, Ed Devera, James Kelch, Alex Moul, etc.
New Jersey, USA. I’m a cake baker, move faker, and love maker.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
1988-1992:
· Mike V turns pro for Powell Peralta
· H-Street boys
· Sean Sheffey and the whole SHUT posse sets the east coast on fire
· The New Deal kicks corporate in the nuts
· Gonz leaves Vision to form Blind
· EMB and the whole SF scene explodes
· Plan B redefines what is possible
These 4 years were magic.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Blockhead flow team. Alyasha Owerka-Moore rode for them and hooked me up. He was my friend, and would always encourage me to skate and create.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Hands down, John Cardiel. I have never seen anyone ride a skateboard like him. No fear, pedal to the floor, absolute hell on wheels. He is also one of the nicest people you could ever meet. I have such vivid memories of him flying around cement parks in Australia at dizzying speed. Tweaked indy-airs while screaming like a banshee. He was so fucking rad.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
A bit of flat ground trickery here and there. I try to get a touch in when I can.
Do you still follow skateboarding – even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Yes. It is amazing what people are up to. The girls are ripping. Some of the hammers people are laying down are outrageous. It is so cool to watch current footage of people that I’ve skated with like Chris Pastras, Kris Markovich, Ed Devera, James Kelch, Alex Moul, etc.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
Ed Templeton got me onto The New Deal flow team after a demo in Edison, NJ in 1990. He was there with Mike Vallely and Felix Arguelles. After the demo, I was skating around the course with my friends. Felix called me over and introduced me to Ed. I was on the team from 1990-1995. I turned pro in 1992.
Which of the videos were you in?
Useless Wooden Toys, 1281, Da Deal is Dead, Whatever, and Children of the Sun.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
I don’t know! Either Da Deal is Dead because I turned pro that year, or 1281 because of the memories I have of the incredible scene in SF. I always loved that footage of Andy Howell, Ali Mills and Chris Hall skating that indoor spot. I remember the first time I saw it and wanting to get in on that session. I don’t know what video that is… perhaps UWT? Andy Howell was always coming up with the craziest tricks.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Skater owned and operated. Everyone was super cool and the products were amazing.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
There was no place to skate inside the warehouse. It would’ve been awesome to have a little skate park in there.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
I never met the entire team, but I am going to go with….. Professor DouglasSargentHowellTempletonMontesiMorrisonMillsGomezMilliganBrauchVallelyBobergHendrixIbasetaFriedbergOlandeBarajasDuffMathyssenGirardDelacruzFisselGreniHazzeDurenHall. It always felt like family when I was hanging with this dude.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
After hours the team would dress up in colourful robes made from Big Deal jeans. We would chant and perform various ceremonies. Board sacrifices were reserved for the summer and winter solstices.
What do you think of the New Deal coming back?
I think it is fantastic. The vibe of this company was always positive. Certainly not a typical re-issue or some money grab. Those who love skateboarding can appreciate how much courage and work went into trying to make an idea like The New Deal a reality. It could easily have failed. It seems commonplace now, but back then it was unheard of to have company run exclusively by skateboarders. Not only drawing the graphics, but making the boards, promoting the products, developing clothing, advertising, making videos and still somehow finding time to skate. I hope everyone will support and celebrate these amazing people for putting themselves in a vulnerable position in order to push things ahead. Someone had to do it. I feel blessed to be a small part of such a big story.
Ok, so can you clarify once and for all how to pronounce your surname please? Every single one of my friends said it slightly differently growing up.
I feel your pain, Muckmouth. Let’s try Ka-Knee-Ghee….or perhaps Ka-Nig-Ghee is better. The first one works if you say it fast but slowed down it starts to come off like Carnegie. And once you start seeing it that way you’ve fallen down a rabbit hole. Like saying Gojira multiple times and then trying to get back to Godzilla. Apparently, I cannot explain how to say my own name. To make matters worse there is the German pronunciation Ka-Nay-Gah. It is much easier to say, but I may not respond if you bust that one out because my family never used it. Probably best to throw in the towel and go with Ron, Ron K, Gojira, or Godzilla. Call Steve Douglas, he knows how to say it.
Ed Templeton got me onto The New Deal flow team after a demo in Edison, NJ in 1990. He was there with Mike Vallely and Felix Arguelles. After the demo, I was skating around the course with my friends. Felix called me over and introduced me to Ed. I was on the team from 1990-1995. I turned pro in 1992.
Which of the videos were you in?
Useless Wooden Toys, 1281, Da Deal is Dead, Whatever, and Children of the Sun.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
I don’t know! Either Da Deal is Dead because I turned pro that year, or 1281 because of the memories I have of the incredible scene in SF. I always loved that footage of Andy Howell, Ali Mills and Chris Hall skating that indoor spot. I remember the first time I saw it and wanting to get in on that session. I don’t know what video that is… perhaps UWT? Andy Howell was always coming up with the craziest tricks.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Skater owned and operated. Everyone was super cool and the products were amazing.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
There was no place to skate inside the warehouse. It would’ve been awesome to have a little skate park in there.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
I never met the entire team, but I am going to go with….. Professor DouglasSargentHowellTempletonMontesiMorrisonMillsGomezMilliganBrauchVallelyBobergHendrixIbasetaFriedbergOlandeBarajasDuffMathyssenGirardDelacruzFisselGreniHazzeDurenHall. It always felt like family when I was hanging with this dude.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
After hours the team would dress up in colourful robes made from Big Deal jeans. We would chant and perform various ceremonies. Board sacrifices were reserved for the summer and winter solstices.
What do you think of the New Deal coming back?
I think it is fantastic. The vibe of this company was always positive. Certainly not a typical re-issue or some money grab. Those who love skateboarding can appreciate how much courage and work went into trying to make an idea like The New Deal a reality. It could easily have failed. It seems commonplace now, but back then it was unheard of to have company run exclusively by skateboarders. Not only drawing the graphics, but making the boards, promoting the products, developing clothing, advertising, making videos and still somehow finding time to skate. I hope everyone will support and celebrate these amazing people for putting themselves in a vulnerable position in order to push things ahead. Someone had to do it. I feel blessed to be a small part of such a big story.
Ok, so can you clarify once and for all how to pronounce your surname please? Every single one of my friends said it slightly differently growing up.
I feel your pain, Muckmouth. Let’s try Ka-Knee-Ghee….or perhaps Ka-Nig-Ghee is better. The first one works if you say it fast but slowed down it starts to come off like Carnegie. And once you start seeing it that way you’ve fallen down a rabbit hole. Like saying Gojira multiple times and then trying to get back to Godzilla. Apparently, I cannot explain how to say my own name. To make matters worse there is the German pronunciation Ka-Nay-Gah. It is much easier to say, but I may not respond if you bust that one out because my family never used it. Probably best to throw in the towel and go with Ron, Ron K, Gojira, or Godzilla. Call Steve Douglas, he knows how to say it.
STEVE DOUGLAS
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
I Live between Los Gatos, Northern California and London, England. I run 2 skateboard distribution companies in the UK called Nineteen76 (the year I started skating) and Rolling Thunder (where I skated growing up). I also help run a skateboard distribution company in Denmark called Emporium, and I am doing my part bringing back New Deal which is a lot of work, but a lot of fun.
When was your favourite era in skateboarding?
Great question. Personally, I would say '80-'82 for the fun aspect, and then I would say '86 right up until my car accident in 1991 for my own skating, as well as who I was skating with. I have to also say that today's skateboarding is simply incredible. I love it so much, the variety to chose from is amazing.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Madrid Skateboards, I won the under 16 Eurocana Open in 1983 in Sweden and they hooked me up.
Who is your favourite skater of all time?
The Gonz, but Grant Taylor must get a special mention, his father rode for New Deal - Thomas Taylor.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
Not much, I got hurt again skating about 6 years ago and it took me 4 years to get over it... now just pushing around, I don’t trust myself to do much more.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Yes everyday
I Live between Los Gatos, Northern California and London, England. I run 2 skateboard distribution companies in the UK called Nineteen76 (the year I started skating) and Rolling Thunder (where I skated growing up). I also help run a skateboard distribution company in Denmark called Emporium, and I am doing my part bringing back New Deal which is a lot of work, but a lot of fun.
When was your favourite era in skateboarding?
Great question. Personally, I would say '80-'82 for the fun aspect, and then I would say '86 right up until my car accident in 1991 for my own skating, as well as who I was skating with. I have to also say that today's skateboarding is simply incredible. I love it so much, the variety to chose from is amazing.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Madrid Skateboards, I won the under 16 Eurocana Open in 1983 in Sweden and they hooked me up.
Who is your favourite skater of all time?
The Gonz, but Grant Taylor must get a special mention, his father rode for New Deal - Thomas Taylor.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
Not much, I got hurt again skating about 6 years ago and it took me 4 years to get over it... now just pushing around, I don’t trust myself to do much more.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Yes everyday
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
I was pro and was a founder, I got the name from a shop in my local town of Harrow in England, Check out my #MyNewDealStory
Which of the videos you were in?
15minute Promo & Useless Wooden Toys. The 15minute Promo video which came out in late Spring 1990, had footage in from 1986!
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favourite part of someone else?
For me personally, my part in Useless wooden toys. Also Donny Barley in Eastern Exposure was incredible, I just loved the way he skated.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Freedom and the ability to do what we wanted to do.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Retiring before I wanted due to my car accident.
Who was your favourite skater on the team and why?
So many. Neal was mind blowing, he would do a 180 into my hardest tricks as a setup to a way harder trick… good grief, talk about making you feel old.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
We changed skateboard distribution around the world, as we went after skater run… we actually gave New deal to riders and friends and said 'go learn to be a businessman, BUT you must take care of skateboarding in your country and take care of any riders'. Skateboarding is in way better hands now, this to me is one of my biggest personal achievement for skateboarding that no ones cares about, haha.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
I pushed for it, and I am glad I did.
Did you ever film any street tricks at all? If so, where can we see them?
No, never filmed, but I did get a cover! Haha. I skated street a lot, I loved doing slappies and sliding tricks but I like allot of old vert skaters ollies were so much tougher than on vert and it was far from natural for me.
I was pro and was a founder, I got the name from a shop in my local town of Harrow in England, Check out my #MyNewDealStory
Which of the videos you were in?
15minute Promo & Useless Wooden Toys. The 15minute Promo video which came out in late Spring 1990, had footage in from 1986!
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favourite part of someone else?
For me personally, my part in Useless wooden toys. Also Donny Barley in Eastern Exposure was incredible, I just loved the way he skated.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Freedom and the ability to do what we wanted to do.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Retiring before I wanted due to my car accident.
Who was your favourite skater on the team and why?
So many. Neal was mind blowing, he would do a 180 into my hardest tricks as a setup to a way harder trick… good grief, talk about making you feel old.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
We changed skateboard distribution around the world, as we went after skater run… we actually gave New deal to riders and friends and said 'go learn to be a businessman, BUT you must take care of skateboarding in your country and take care of any riders'. Skateboarding is in way better hands now, this to me is one of my biggest personal achievement for skateboarding that no ones cares about, haha.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
I pushed for it, and I am glad I did.
Did you ever film any street tricks at all? If so, where can we see them?
No, never filmed, but I did get a cover! Haha. I skated street a lot, I loved doing slappies and sliding tricks but I like allot of old vert skaters ollies were so much tougher than on vert and it was far from natural for me.
JOHN MONTESI
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
I am currently living in Odessa Fl. I have been the owner of Westside Skate Shop for 22 years now, with shops located in Tarpon Springs Fl. and in Largo Fl. www.westsideskateshop.com Instagram: @westsideskateshop
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
My favorite era in skateboarding has to be late '80s to mid '90s.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
My first sponsor was a company called Exile from Valdosta, GA. The owner, Eric Stuck came to a place called Astro Skate by my house for a local contest. I won the contest and afterwards, Eric asked me to ride for Exile.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
My favourite skater of all time is Natas Kaupas.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I skate about once a week.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
I still live skateboarding with my business everyday. I have been blessed to be able to still live it everyday.
I am currently living in Odessa Fl. I have been the owner of Westside Skate Shop for 22 years now, with shops located in Tarpon Springs Fl. and in Largo Fl. www.westsideskateshop.com Instagram: @westsideskateshop
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
My favorite era in skateboarding has to be late '80s to mid '90s.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
My first sponsor was a company called Exile from Valdosta, GA. The owner, Eric Stuck came to a place called Astro Skate by my house for a local contest. I won the contest and afterwards, Eric asked me to ride for Exile.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
My favourite skater of all time is Natas Kaupas.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I skate about once a week.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
I still live skateboarding with my business everyday. I have been blessed to be able to still live it everyday.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
I skated in the NSA Qualifiers, in St. Petersburg, Florida. Paul Schmitt was at the contest and saw my runs. Schmitt came out to Astro Skate a couple weeks later. He saw me riding an H-Street board that Ron Allen had gifted me for giving him a ride to his hotel after the NSA Pro contest. Schmitt asked if I was riding for H-Street. I told him no, and he asked if I would like to ride some Schmitt Stix product. I was like "Hell Yeah!" He told me they were making a video and to send some footage and I might make it into the video. I sent in my tape within the month.
About a month later I opened up the latest Thrasher Mag and saw this ad - New Deal “As long as we’re not a rock-n-roll band and we don’t make coffee...” Literally 2 hours go by and the phone rings, my mom tells me this guy named Steve Douglas is on the phone for me, and that he had an English accent. I pick up the phone and Steve asks me to ride for New Deal. Starting Am and then turning Pro, I rode for New Deal from 1990-1996. I rode Pro for New Deal from 92-96.
Best time of my life, traveling and skating!
Which of the videos you were in?
I’ve been in Useless Wooden Toys, 1281, Da Deal is Dead, Whatever, Children of the Sun, and the 1996 New Deal promo video.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
My favorite video part of all time is Armando Barajas in 1281. My favorite part of my own was my 1281 part.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Great owners and company, awesome people involved, being able to pick your own graphics, traveling and running with an awesome crew. Great times!
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Can’t think of anything!
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
The whole team! Every skater on the team was unique.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
Super stoked and beyond excited! New Deal was a major part of my life and was such a family to me. I might not be doing what I’m doing now if it weren't for going Pro with New Deal.
Do you remember coming to Newbury (a small town in England that I grew up in) in 1991 with Danny and Armando?
I hope so. You did huge ollie lien disasters, and an ollie to tail sex-change drop-in on our local mini ramp. Then you ollied a shopping trolley on flat. It blew all of our tiny minds.
Oh that's awesome, thank you! I totally remember that trip! Had such a fun time on that trip.
I skated in the NSA Qualifiers, in St. Petersburg, Florida. Paul Schmitt was at the contest and saw my runs. Schmitt came out to Astro Skate a couple weeks later. He saw me riding an H-Street board that Ron Allen had gifted me for giving him a ride to his hotel after the NSA Pro contest. Schmitt asked if I was riding for H-Street. I told him no, and he asked if I would like to ride some Schmitt Stix product. I was like "Hell Yeah!" He told me they were making a video and to send some footage and I might make it into the video. I sent in my tape within the month.
About a month later I opened up the latest Thrasher Mag and saw this ad - New Deal “As long as we’re not a rock-n-roll band and we don’t make coffee...” Literally 2 hours go by and the phone rings, my mom tells me this guy named Steve Douglas is on the phone for me, and that he had an English accent. I pick up the phone and Steve asks me to ride for New Deal. Starting Am and then turning Pro, I rode for New Deal from 1990-1996. I rode Pro for New Deal from 92-96.
Best time of my life, traveling and skating!
Which of the videos you were in?
I’ve been in Useless Wooden Toys, 1281, Da Deal is Dead, Whatever, Children of the Sun, and the 1996 New Deal promo video.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
My favorite video part of all time is Armando Barajas in 1281. My favorite part of my own was my 1281 part.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Great owners and company, awesome people involved, being able to pick your own graphics, traveling and running with an awesome crew. Great times!
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Can’t think of anything!
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
The whole team! Every skater on the team was unique.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
Super stoked and beyond excited! New Deal was a major part of my life and was such a family to me. I might not be doing what I’m doing now if it weren't for going Pro with New Deal.
Do you remember coming to Newbury (a small town in England that I grew up in) in 1991 with Danny and Armando?
I hope so. You did huge ollie lien disasters, and an ollie to tail sex-change drop-in on our local mini ramp. Then you ollied a shopping trolley on flat. It blew all of our tiny minds.
Oh that's awesome, thank you! I totally remember that trip! Had such a fun time on that trip.
HAZZE LINDGREN
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
I live in Stockholm and I work with a skateboard distributor as brand manager and sales rep.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
The '80s, so many things happened in that decade. I went to California for the first time in 1980, It was meant to be a 3 week trip, but me and my friend Per Welinder ended up staying there (Hermosa Beach) for half a year.
Per moved to the US (Connecticut) for school and I kept coming back to California year after year, and in 1986 I got on Schmitt Stix and Speed Wheels and stayed for another 4 years.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
I had flow sponsors pretty early from skate shops and distributors in Sweden. and when Per got on Powell Peralta I also got decks and wheels from Stacy (Peralta). My first real sponsor was Tracker (Thank You! Peggy, Larry, Ridge and Sarge).
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Chris Miller
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
Well, I mostly use the board for transportation, not too many tricks.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Yes, I follow skateboarding all the time, we sponsor a lot of skaters so I have to know what’s going on.
I also Judge a few bigger contests in Sweden like Vert Attack and the Swedish qualifiers for the Olympics.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
I was already on Schmitt Stix and I was moving back to Europe to start my own skateboard distribution in Denmark. I had a pro model for a couple of years. New Deal quickly became our biggest brand and I also took care of all the European New Deal team riders from my office in Copenhagen.
Which of the videos you were in?
Just the New Deal promo video.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
I only had one New Deal part, it was short but pretty good. Anything with Ed is good.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
To be part of building a new brand from scratch, that was amazing!
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Gorm getting me arrested in Huntington Beach for vandalism... because HE put a sticker on a sign.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
I think Ed, I’ve known him since '86, he skated freestyle with me and Don Brown in the beginning and he is always fun to hang out with. But I get along with most of the guys. I remember when John Montesi, Armando and Danny Sargent stayed at my place in Copenhagen, that was a good time.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Well, we had Tom Penny on the team…
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
It’s great, the response we got from shops in Sweden is incredible!
How much longer did you stay on a freestyle sized board after Rodney focussed his in Rubbish Heap? And what was the transition to a street board like?
I stopped riding freestyle boards in '92 when there was no more freestyle contests and I started to ride a popsicle shape street board 7.5” – 7.625” that I used for curb skating and freestyle, no problem.
I was already on Schmitt Stix and I was moving back to Europe to start my own skateboard distribution in Denmark. I had a pro model for a couple of years. New Deal quickly became our biggest brand and I also took care of all the European New Deal team riders from my office in Copenhagen.
Which of the videos you were in?
Just the New Deal promo video.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
I only had one New Deal part, it was short but pretty good. Anything with Ed is good.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
To be part of building a new brand from scratch, that was amazing!
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Gorm getting me arrested in Huntington Beach for vandalism... because HE put a sticker on a sign.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
I think Ed, I’ve known him since '86, he skated freestyle with me and Don Brown in the beginning and he is always fun to hang out with. But I get along with most of the guys. I remember when John Montesi, Armando and Danny Sargent stayed at my place in Copenhagen, that was a good time.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Well, we had Tom Penny on the team…
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
It’s great, the response we got from shops in Sweden is incredible!
How much longer did you stay on a freestyle sized board after Rodney focussed his in Rubbish Heap? And what was the transition to a street board like?
I stopped riding freestyle boards in '92 when there was no more freestyle contests and I started to ride a popsicle shape street board 7.5” – 7.625” that I used for curb skating and freestyle, no problem.
DANNY SARGENT
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
MPLS, MN, Since May 14. I worked at a steel mill for 4 years loading big rigs with bundles of steel tubing. Now I work at UPS from 11pm-4am, Sun through Thursday, unloading 53 foot trailers at about 1200 packages an hour. It sucks on my old wrist and back, not a good job for me. Just tryin' to get insurance for my daughter and myself, but I have to last one year, If it doesn’t kill me. Fuck, I should have gone to college.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
I dig it all for the most part, but it was magical in the early to mid 80s when skating was dead and I got to witness, as well as be a part of the dawn of street skating. The 3 names we owe everything to are Mark Gonzales, Natas and Tommy Guerrero. Skating was so small that if you heard a skateboard and looked out the window you would know them. We would skate miles to the banks that we knew of and emulate vert tricks on them. Then the street ollie came, and after learning the boardslide on bus benches a whole new world opened up.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Independent Trucks. Tommy Guerrero did a demo and judged a comp in Portland. I got 2nd and he gave me trucks and his phone number. So, being from SF as well I would skate and stay with him when I visited. The crew was the Fogtown Concrete Jungle crew, so I got on naturally with the guys I skated with,.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Mark Gonazales, every photo, video and in person was a treat. He was fully animated like watching a cartoon. All round street and vert - in a class by himself.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I am a skateboarder. I never quit, I’ve never taken an airplane without my board. That's a big sign, like people who don’t have their board like “It's not a skating trip”, this is not golf, like “oh I didn't bring my clubs as I wasn't expecting to play". I’m a skater, I ride a skateboard. The strangest question asked to me - someone asked me if I still skated, I looked down at my board under my feet and had no idea how to answer. It's like asking someone at a restaurant if they still eat.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Sure, I mean I never really cared about competitions, but I appreciate skateboarding.
MPLS, MN, Since May 14. I worked at a steel mill for 4 years loading big rigs with bundles of steel tubing. Now I work at UPS from 11pm-4am, Sun through Thursday, unloading 53 foot trailers at about 1200 packages an hour. It sucks on my old wrist and back, not a good job for me. Just tryin' to get insurance for my daughter and myself, but I have to last one year, If it doesn’t kill me. Fuck, I should have gone to college.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
I dig it all for the most part, but it was magical in the early to mid 80s when skating was dead and I got to witness, as well as be a part of the dawn of street skating. The 3 names we owe everything to are Mark Gonzales, Natas and Tommy Guerrero. Skating was so small that if you heard a skateboard and looked out the window you would know them. We would skate miles to the banks that we knew of and emulate vert tricks on them. Then the street ollie came, and after learning the boardslide on bus benches a whole new world opened up.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Independent Trucks. Tommy Guerrero did a demo and judged a comp in Portland. I got 2nd and he gave me trucks and his phone number. So, being from SF as well I would skate and stay with him when I visited. The crew was the Fogtown Concrete Jungle crew, so I got on naturally with the guys I skated with,.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Mark Gonazales, every photo, video and in person was a treat. He was fully animated like watching a cartoon. All round street and vert - in a class by himself.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I am a skateboarder. I never quit, I’ve never taken an airplane without my board. That's a big sign, like people who don’t have their board like “It's not a skating trip”, this is not golf, like “oh I didn't bring my clubs as I wasn't expecting to play". I’m a skater, I ride a skateboard. The strangest question asked to me - someone asked me if I still skated, I looked down at my board under my feet and had no idea how to answer. It's like asking someone at a restaurant if they still eat.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Sure, I mean I never really cared about competitions, but I appreciate skateboarding.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
We started New Deal when I was pro for Schmitt Stix, so my 2nd pro model was on New Deal
Which of the videos you were in?
15 minute promo, Useless wooden Toys, and 1281
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
1281 short and sweet, I filmed in 2 or 3 days on the the streets of SF, and once at one of the best mini ramps of all time - BK Studio 43 with a dope extension with pool coping, then one night they opened the 'wooded street course' for us after the Handle Bar closed. Fast and loose, good times.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Breaking away from Vision and doing our own thing - new and fresh.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Nothing really except the whole 'out with the old, in with the new' shit. In some ways it is real and makes sense, but it is hella lame in some respects. For example the World ad with Chris Branagh and Mike V, LOL. Chris was not even close.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
Rick Ibaseta, SF!
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
That Andy, Steve and I had models for Schmitt before New Deal.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
Cool part of skating history that I was lucky to be a part of. A lot of older skaters are looking forward to it, as it brings back cool memories of their youth.
If you could bring back the Safeway Curb or the original Justin Herman Plaza in 2019 - which would you choose, and why?
How about Sadlands, that place was cool. Hmmm, EMB with a Safeway Curb! RIDE ON, Danny
We started New Deal when I was pro for Schmitt Stix, so my 2nd pro model was on New Deal
Which of the videos you were in?
15 minute promo, Useless wooden Toys, and 1281
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
1281 short and sweet, I filmed in 2 or 3 days on the the streets of SF, and once at one of the best mini ramps of all time - BK Studio 43 with a dope extension with pool coping, then one night they opened the 'wooded street course' for us after the Handle Bar closed. Fast and loose, good times.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Breaking away from Vision and doing our own thing - new and fresh.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Nothing really except the whole 'out with the old, in with the new' shit. In some ways it is real and makes sense, but it is hella lame in some respects. For example the World ad with Chris Branagh and Mike V, LOL. Chris was not even close.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
Rick Ibaseta, SF!
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
That Andy, Steve and I had models for Schmitt before New Deal.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
Cool part of skating history that I was lucky to be a part of. A lot of older skaters are looking forward to it, as it brings back cool memories of their youth.
If you could bring back the Safeway Curb or the original Justin Herman Plaza in 2019 - which would you choose, and why?
How about Sadlands, that place was cool. Hmmm, EMB with a Safeway Curb! RIDE ON, Danny
CHRIS HALL
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
I live in Ephrata Pa. I sell antiques and work for an auction company.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
The 1990s were my favorite era.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
First sponsor was Venture Trucks. I used to send them sponsor-me tapes all the time and call them all the time as well. I think Sean Sheffey put in a good word for me. At the same time I started getting boards from Dogtown as well.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Mark Gonzales.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I don't skate anymore.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Yes I follow skating. My favorite skater nowadays is Gustav Tonnesen.
I live in Ephrata Pa. I sell antiques and work for an auction company.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
The 1990s were my favorite era.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
First sponsor was Venture Trucks. I used to send them sponsor-me tapes all the time and call them all the time as well. I think Sean Sheffey put in a good word for me. At the same time I started getting boards from Dogtown as well.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Mark Gonzales.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I don't skate anymore.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Yes I follow skating. My favorite skater nowadays is Gustav Tonnesen.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
Andy Howell saw me skating at a contest in Va. He started flowing me some stuff and said he wanted me on his new company which was New Deal.
Which of the videos you were in?
Useless Wooden Toys and 1281. A few others maybe.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
I guess my first part was my favourite. Any of Rick Ibaseta's parts were my fav.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
It was cool being a part of this new innovative company that was pushing the envelope.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
It was all positive being on New Deal.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
Ali Mills. He was my homie, we skated together so much and pushed each other to learn new tricks.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
No clue bro. lol
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
It's all good. I hope it goes well.
Always been a fan, mate. Tell us a good DC story that hasn't been told. Also, after skating - how did you get into antiques?! If you ever stumble across any carded original Star Wars figures, hit me up!
Thank you. That's hard. I don't know any stories that would really excite anyone. I got into antiques as just a way to make some money and I ended up loving it. Peace.........
Andy Howell saw me skating at a contest in Va. He started flowing me some stuff and said he wanted me on his new company which was New Deal.
Which of the videos you were in?
Useless Wooden Toys and 1281. A few others maybe.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
I guess my first part was my favourite. Any of Rick Ibaseta's parts were my fav.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
It was cool being a part of this new innovative company that was pushing the envelope.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
It was all positive being on New Deal.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
Ali Mills. He was my homie, we skated together so much and pushed each other to learn new tricks.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
No clue bro. lol
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
It's all good. I hope it goes well.
Always been a fan, mate. Tell us a good DC story that hasn't been told. Also, after skating - how did you get into antiques?! If you ever stumble across any carded original Star Wars figures, hit me up!
Thank you. That's hard. I don't know any stories that would really excite anyone. I got into antiques as just a way to make some money and I ended up loving it. Peace.........
ANDREW MORRISON
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
I live in Auckland, New Zealand. OK? Haha. I own Irrom Skateboard Distribution, that has been running for the past 20 years.
When was your favourite era in skateboarding?
The late '80s, early '90s was the best for me as I got to skate with many of my heroes growing up - Miller, Hawk, Hosoi, Cab, Gator etc. I also got to see the new wave of progression come in, with the likes of Danny Way, Bucky Lasek, and Omar Hassan etc. most of the tricks these guys invented still stand strong today.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Locally it was Edwards Skateboards here in New Zealand, I worked for Frank Edwards and he was a great contributor to the sport and always looked after me well, I owe him a lot.
Then USA wise it was OJ and Independent trucks. I met Steve Keenan who was the team manager at the time and a rad dude. That was the first US company to send me a box.
Who is your favourite skater of all time?
Can’t beat that style and power of Chris Miller
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I’ve been skating the whole time, I never stopped. I probably skate like 3-4 times a week currently
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Totally. With my job I gotta keep pretty well connected so I do my best to keep up with all the current stuff.
I live in Auckland, New Zealand. OK? Haha. I own Irrom Skateboard Distribution, that has been running for the past 20 years.
When was your favourite era in skateboarding?
The late '80s, early '90s was the best for me as I got to skate with many of my heroes growing up - Miller, Hawk, Hosoi, Cab, Gator etc. I also got to see the new wave of progression come in, with the likes of Danny Way, Bucky Lasek, and Omar Hassan etc. most of the tricks these guys invented still stand strong today.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Locally it was Edwards Skateboards here in New Zealand, I worked for Frank Edwards and he was a great contributor to the sport and always looked after me well, I owe him a lot.
Then USA wise it was OJ and Independent trucks. I met Steve Keenan who was the team manager at the time and a rad dude. That was the first US company to send me a box.
Who is your favourite skater of all time?
Can’t beat that style and power of Chris Miller
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I’ve been skating the whole time, I never stopped. I probably skate like 3-4 times a week currently
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Totally. With my job I gotta keep pretty well connected so I do my best to keep up with all the current stuff.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
I lived in Huntington Beach for 6 months, and was at Phil's ramp in Alhambra when I met Steve Douglas who rode for Schmitt Stix at the time. I guess he told Paul Schmitt about me, then we met up at his wood shop in Costa Mesa and later went skating a bunch together. They invited me on a couple of tours around the States and I guess I was on the full Am team after that.
Then when Paul left Schmitt/Vision to start New Deal they asked me to be one of the main dudes. I was honoured and very appreciative for the opportunity to be involved with such a rad company.
Which of the videos you were in?
OG Promo, Useless Wooden Toys, and 1281
What was your favourite video part of yours, and what was your favourite part of someone else?
1281 was my favourite part by far, it best showcased how I could skate. The other two videos were slapped together from random tour footage. I didn’t really get a chance to film a part how dudes do nowadays. I feel my skating became more powerful and my style trick selection got better in the mid 90s and 1281 was a glimpse of that, but I hate how I skate in the other two videos, haha.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
I really like how they had an International team, Anthony Hancock from Canada, Simon Evans from the UK, Jeremie Daclin from France, Gary Valentine from Australia etc., they really took quite a different approach and it gave a different flavour to what other brands were doing. It was one of the first proper skater owned companies and with Andy and ED drawing the graphics it doesn’t get much better than that.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Being so far away from USA made things difficult. They flew me out a few times to places around the World, but just couldn’t sustain that kind of cost, and in the end I was given the ultimatum to either move to the States or they'd have no option but to give me the boot. I decided to stay in NZ and part of me regrets that decision as I still hadn't done my best skating yet.
Who was your favourite skater on the team and why?
Ed Templeton of course. I got to room with Ed a bunch on trips and got to watch him at the height of his World championship fame. We did a bunch of demos together etc., and just watching him skate blew my mind.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Back in '91, Paul Schmitt gave me this this foam core prototype to ride that was so far ahead of its time, and could have been a game changer. It looked like a normal board and was by far the best board I ever rode. I guess with the death of vert right around then the market just wouldn’t have been able to wrap its head around it.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
I think it’s great because since the company ended I think a lot of people have forgotten how big of an impact it made on the skate community at the time. And now is a great opportunity for everyone that was involved to celebrate that, and for those who weren’t around 30 years ago to understand its place in history.
Morri, do you still have your pet rock?
I had never had a pet rock, that was a stupid skit that me and my friend Stu Kendall did at his house. I guess people liked it though cause I get hit up about it all the time.
I lived in Huntington Beach for 6 months, and was at Phil's ramp in Alhambra when I met Steve Douglas who rode for Schmitt Stix at the time. I guess he told Paul Schmitt about me, then we met up at his wood shop in Costa Mesa and later went skating a bunch together. They invited me on a couple of tours around the States and I guess I was on the full Am team after that.
Then when Paul left Schmitt/Vision to start New Deal they asked me to be one of the main dudes. I was honoured and very appreciative for the opportunity to be involved with such a rad company.
Which of the videos you were in?
OG Promo, Useless Wooden Toys, and 1281
What was your favourite video part of yours, and what was your favourite part of someone else?
1281 was my favourite part by far, it best showcased how I could skate. The other two videos were slapped together from random tour footage. I didn’t really get a chance to film a part how dudes do nowadays. I feel my skating became more powerful and my style trick selection got better in the mid 90s and 1281 was a glimpse of that, but I hate how I skate in the other two videos, haha.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
I really like how they had an International team, Anthony Hancock from Canada, Simon Evans from the UK, Jeremie Daclin from France, Gary Valentine from Australia etc., they really took quite a different approach and it gave a different flavour to what other brands were doing. It was one of the first proper skater owned companies and with Andy and ED drawing the graphics it doesn’t get much better than that.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Being so far away from USA made things difficult. They flew me out a few times to places around the World, but just couldn’t sustain that kind of cost, and in the end I was given the ultimatum to either move to the States or they'd have no option but to give me the boot. I decided to stay in NZ and part of me regrets that decision as I still hadn't done my best skating yet.
Who was your favourite skater on the team and why?
Ed Templeton of course. I got to room with Ed a bunch on trips and got to watch him at the height of his World championship fame. We did a bunch of demos together etc., and just watching him skate blew my mind.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Back in '91, Paul Schmitt gave me this this foam core prototype to ride that was so far ahead of its time, and could have been a game changer. It looked like a normal board and was by far the best board I ever rode. I guess with the death of vert right around then the market just wouldn’t have been able to wrap its head around it.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
I think it’s great because since the company ended I think a lot of people have forgotten how big of an impact it made on the skate community at the time. And now is a great opportunity for everyone that was involved to celebrate that, and for those who weren’t around 30 years ago to understand its place in history.
Morri, do you still have your pet rock?
I had never had a pet rock, that was a stupid skit that me and my friend Stu Kendall did at his house. I guess people liked it though cause I get hit up about it all the time.
RENE MATTHYSSEN
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
Still living the dream in beautiful Honolulu, Hawaii. Owner of FITTED.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
80's street skating.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Randal's in east San Diego, it was my neighborhood skate shop and my friend that worked there got me hooked up.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Tommy Guerrero
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
Still roll around a little bit, actually have a mini ramp in my warehouse. Definitely need to put in more time on the board.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Mostly watch old stuff.
Still living the dream in beautiful Honolulu, Hawaii. Owner of FITTED.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
80's street skating.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Randal's in east San Diego, it was my neighborhood skate shop and my friend that worked there got me hooked up.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Tommy Guerrero
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
Still roll around a little bit, actually have a mini ramp in my warehouse. Definitely need to put in more time on the board.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
Mostly watch old stuff.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
My friend Fred Olande was riding for New Deal and I went to a contest in San Diego with him, Steve Douglas happened to be there and that's were it all started. Steve was the coolest team manager, he plugged me into everything from product to traveling right away. Started as an amateur and eventually went pro. Very thankful to Steve for the opportunity that he gave me.
Which of the videos you were in?
1281, Da Deal is Dead, Whatever, and Children of the Sun
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
Children of the Sun. Anything with Rick Ibaseta.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
The traveling and the way they included all the riders in a lot of the aspects of the company. Everything from graphic direction to video direction. All the riders had ideas and I have always felt like New Deal respected those ideas. It was a very inclusive company.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Can't think of anything.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
Fred Olande, he's my brother.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Can't think of anything.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
Fucking sick, just seeing all the old artwork from the early years is reason enough in my book to bring it back.
So many sick Hawaii spots. You ripped at Aala park. Who were your Hawaiian influences. Oh, and have you seen that new kid Cyprus that skates there now? He is about 3 and rips!
Bo Ikeda hands down! Cyprus is the truth, the kid has a bright future ahead of him.
My friend Fred Olande was riding for New Deal and I went to a contest in San Diego with him, Steve Douglas happened to be there and that's were it all started. Steve was the coolest team manager, he plugged me into everything from product to traveling right away. Started as an amateur and eventually went pro. Very thankful to Steve for the opportunity that he gave me.
Which of the videos you were in?
1281, Da Deal is Dead, Whatever, and Children of the Sun
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
Children of the Sun. Anything with Rick Ibaseta.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
The traveling and the way they included all the riders in a lot of the aspects of the company. Everything from graphic direction to video direction. All the riders had ideas and I have always felt like New Deal respected those ideas. It was a very inclusive company.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Can't think of anything.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
Fred Olande, he's my brother.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Can't think of anything.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
Fucking sick, just seeing all the old artwork from the early years is reason enough in my book to bring it back.
So many sick Hawaii spots. You ripped at Aala park. Who were your Hawaiian influences. Oh, and have you seen that new kid Cyprus that skates there now? He is about 3 and rips!
Bo Ikeda hands down! Cyprus is the truth, the kid has a bright future ahead of him.
FRED OLANDE
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
I am currently doing outside sales, selling repair software to dealerships and auto repair shops in San Diego and Orange County.
When was your favourite era in skateboarding?
My favorite era of course was the early 90s in particular, because that was my era.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
My first sponsor was Z Products. It was in 1988. I remember going to a big contest - there were over 150 people there. Then the Z team arrived. They all ripped on that team, so everybody was waiting for them to skate. They were very unique They basically took over the contest, particularly Jimmy Acosta. I remember just calling them up one day and asking if I could get sponsored over the phone. I talked to George Wilson and he told me to send in a video of myself, once we got talking I told him I had a big half pipe in my backyard. The next week the whole team came down to skate the ramp. I don’t think they were looking to sponsor me. I think they were just looking to ride a ramp. I remember the first run I took they were screaming and really stoked on my skating. I remember I fit the mold by being Filipino - as most of the members were Asian and Mexicans. George Wilson treated us really good taking us to a contest every week in Las Vegas, Northern California, Arizona and all over the place. They were a good team to ride for, and It was a pleasure to skate for that team.
Who is your favourite skater of all time?
It would I have to be Danny way. He did it all, and he was such a young skater competing with all the older guys, then stayed pretty consistent for a long time on street and vert.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I’m not really skating too much. Working keeps me really busy. Alphonzo Rawls Is a friend that I still keep in contact with. So I’m going to start up again. That new Vans ramp looks pretty fun.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
I still follow skateboarding every day. I have Instagram and follow Nyjah Houston and Boo Johnson. I think they are incredible. Nyjah Does things like the Tony Hawk Pro Skater video game. He has so much control over his board and seems like he can do any trick he wants to. As far as Boo Johnson - he is just a positive person and good for the younger generation. He rips as well.
I am currently doing outside sales, selling repair software to dealerships and auto repair shops in San Diego and Orange County.
When was your favourite era in skateboarding?
My favorite era of course was the early 90s in particular, because that was my era.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
My first sponsor was Z Products. It was in 1988. I remember going to a big contest - there were over 150 people there. Then the Z team arrived. They all ripped on that team, so everybody was waiting for them to skate. They were very unique They basically took over the contest, particularly Jimmy Acosta. I remember just calling them up one day and asking if I could get sponsored over the phone. I talked to George Wilson and he told me to send in a video of myself, once we got talking I told him I had a big half pipe in my backyard. The next week the whole team came down to skate the ramp. I don’t think they were looking to sponsor me. I think they were just looking to ride a ramp. I remember the first run I took they were screaming and really stoked on my skating. I remember I fit the mold by being Filipino - as most of the members were Asian and Mexicans. George Wilson treated us really good taking us to a contest every week in Las Vegas, Northern California, Arizona and all over the place. They were a good team to ride for, and It was a pleasure to skate for that team.
Who is your favourite skater of all time?
It would I have to be Danny way. He did it all, and he was such a young skater competing with all the older guys, then stayed pretty consistent for a long time on street and vert.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
I’m not really skating too much. Working keeps me really busy. Alphonzo Rawls Is a friend that I still keep in contact with. So I’m going to start up again. That new Vans ramp looks pretty fun.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
I still follow skateboarding every day. I have Instagram and follow Nyjah Houston and Boo Johnson. I think they are incredible. Nyjah Does things like the Tony Hawk Pro Skater video game. He has so much control over his board and seems like he can do any trick he wants to. As far as Boo Johnson - he is just a positive person and good for the younger generation. He rips as well.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
I remember being on H-Street when we had over 100 people on the team. I really wanted to skate in the Dallas Shut Up and Skate contest. After watching Useless Wooden Toys I thought that whole team was so incredible, and I knew Steve Douglas from skating San Jose warehouse all the time. I really wanted to go to that contest so I called Steve Douglas up. I got sponsored by New Deal - they paid for my contest fees and had a giant box waiting for me at Jeff Phillips Skate Park. I was really stoked to be on a small team. Don’t get me wrong, I loved H-Street and I had really great friends on that team, plus Magnuson and Ternansky treated me very well, but it was time to move on. I rode for New Deal from 91-94 turning pro in 1992.
Which of the videos you were in?
I was in 1281, Whatever, and Da Deal is Dead
What was your favourite video part of yours, and what was your favourite part of someone else?
My favorite video part was 1281 - although we were not able to edit our own videos, I still thought it turned out OK. Favorite persons video part on 1281 was Rene Matthyssen. He always had a clean fresh style...
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
I loved how small the team was. Everybody was super cool on the team, as well as the people that worked there. It really did feel like a family and I really thank Steve Douglas and Paul Schmitt for giving me the opportunity to be on that team. I have really great memories.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
I know this sounds really cliché, but there’s nothing I disliked about the New Deal.
Who was your favourite skater on the team and why?
Once again everybody was super cool and I can’t name one person that was my favorite, but I guess if I had to pick one it would be Rene. We were friends before he moved to Hawaii and I got him on the team - he did me proud!
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Every Christmas they got us really great gifts. I remember one year they got us super nice travel backpacks with our names embroidered. I remember Element got the same gifts and when I was on tour with Harold Hunter he took my backpack that was part of the whole travel pack that had my passport in there when we were in England. I remember I had to stay there for a few more days and wasn’t a happy camper but it’s all good.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
I think it was the right thing to do. It’s really humbling to know how much people love the New Deal. I get instant messages from doctors and lawyers and all sorts of people telling me stories of when I went to their cities and did demos in their town, and for the most part they’re all good stories! A lot of people like to collect New Deal products so I know it’s going to do well. It also gives everybody a chance to get back together to enjoy an opportunity to see everyone again.
Tell us the story of 'Kate Plus 8'
Alphonso pretty much already covered that.
I remember being on H-Street when we had over 100 people on the team. I really wanted to skate in the Dallas Shut Up and Skate contest. After watching Useless Wooden Toys I thought that whole team was so incredible, and I knew Steve Douglas from skating San Jose warehouse all the time. I really wanted to go to that contest so I called Steve Douglas up. I got sponsored by New Deal - they paid for my contest fees and had a giant box waiting for me at Jeff Phillips Skate Park. I was really stoked to be on a small team. Don’t get me wrong, I loved H-Street and I had really great friends on that team, plus Magnuson and Ternansky treated me very well, but it was time to move on. I rode for New Deal from 91-94 turning pro in 1992.
Which of the videos you were in?
I was in 1281, Whatever, and Da Deal is Dead
What was your favourite video part of yours, and what was your favourite part of someone else?
My favorite video part was 1281 - although we were not able to edit our own videos, I still thought it turned out OK. Favorite persons video part on 1281 was Rene Matthyssen. He always had a clean fresh style...
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
I loved how small the team was. Everybody was super cool on the team, as well as the people that worked there. It really did feel like a family and I really thank Steve Douglas and Paul Schmitt for giving me the opportunity to be on that team. I have really great memories.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
I know this sounds really cliché, but there’s nothing I disliked about the New Deal.
Who was your favourite skater on the team and why?
Once again everybody was super cool and I can’t name one person that was my favorite, but I guess if I had to pick one it would be Rene. We were friends before he moved to Hawaii and I got him on the team - he did me proud!
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Every Christmas they got us really great gifts. I remember one year they got us super nice travel backpacks with our names embroidered. I remember Element got the same gifts and when I was on tour with Harold Hunter he took my backpack that was part of the whole travel pack that had my passport in there when we were in England. I remember I had to stay there for a few more days and wasn’t a happy camper but it’s all good.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
I think it was the right thing to do. It’s really humbling to know how much people love the New Deal. I get instant messages from doctors and lawyers and all sorts of people telling me stories of when I went to their cities and did demos in their town, and for the most part they’re all good stories! A lot of people like to collect New Deal products so I know it’s going to do well. It also gives everybody a chance to get back together to enjoy an opportunity to see everyone again.
Tell us the story of 'Kate Plus 8'
Alphonso pretty much already covered that.
RICK IBASETA
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
I still live in San Francisco and work at a photo studio. Building sets, grip, lighting and such. Boring stuff.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
It would definitely have to be the late 80s to early 90s simply because Natas, Tommy and Gonz lead the way. Combine that with the music that was emerging at the time. Witnessing my peers progress, take the joint and pass it to the next.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
FTC skate shop on Bush Street. Crazy original team with Mike & Greg Carroll, Jovontae Turner and little Nick Lockman. Kent had a jump ramp session to start a team. I wasn’t there but somehow I got on. He would give us two boards and a pair of shoes a month. Shout out to Kent, thank you.
Then Thunder and Spitfire. Spitfire was brand new. Shout out to the man Shrewgy. Came home from school one day there was a Deluxe box full of everything. Thanks blood.
My first board sponsor was Shut Skates out of NYC. My friend Coco Santiago skated for them and got me on the team. Shout out to Rodney Smith and Bruno Musso. Thank you.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Mark Gonzales on anything. Chris Miller in Upland. Christian Hosoi in any pool.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
Yes I skate as much as I can when I can. It’s who we are. I’d go insane if I didn’t eat concrete.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
All the time, hard to keep up though. So many rippers. Keep 'em coming.
I still live in San Francisco and work at a photo studio. Building sets, grip, lighting and such. Boring stuff.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
It would definitely have to be the late 80s to early 90s simply because Natas, Tommy and Gonz lead the way. Combine that with the music that was emerging at the time. Witnessing my peers progress, take the joint and pass it to the next.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
FTC skate shop on Bush Street. Crazy original team with Mike & Greg Carroll, Jovontae Turner and little Nick Lockman. Kent had a jump ramp session to start a team. I wasn’t there but somehow I got on. He would give us two boards and a pair of shoes a month. Shout out to Kent, thank you.
Then Thunder and Spitfire. Spitfire was brand new. Shout out to the man Shrewgy. Came home from school one day there was a Deluxe box full of everything. Thanks blood.
My first board sponsor was Shut Skates out of NYC. My friend Coco Santiago skated for them and got me on the team. Shout out to Rodney Smith and Bruno Musso. Thank you.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
Mark Gonzales on anything. Chris Miller in Upland. Christian Hosoi in any pool.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
Yes I skate as much as I can when I can. It’s who we are. I’d go insane if I didn’t eat concrete.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
All the time, hard to keep up though. So many rippers. Keep 'em coming.
SPECIFICALLY REGARDING YOUR TIME ON NEW DEAL...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
Danny Sargent got me on from the start. Thought I was getting on Schmitt Stix. It was official on Earth Day 1990, Chrissy field in SF while Devo was playing in the rain.
Was on for about two years then Andy Howell, Chris Hall and I split to start Underworld Element.
Which of the videos you were in?
Promo/Useless Wooden Toys/1281
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part ?
Probably 1281. Music worked well. Still get asked about it.
Ali Mills and Chris Hall’s part along with Sargent.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
They gave us the opportunity to skate the world over. Meet amazing people throughout, and to this day because of skateboarding, still remain friends.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal.
Nothing really. It was like being in a relationship without fighting. Nothing bad about it, was just awkward at times.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
Danny Sargent - so gnar, and Bustin Justin Girard - so good at everything.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
I think everyone knows about New Deal. Roosevelt. Government programs, regulations and public works projects during the depression.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
I guess it’s pretty strange and cool at the same time. I’d like to try one of their boards.
Tell us some cool shit from the EMB days at Embarcadero. A story we haven't heard
We’re all sitting there thinking about the cops coming and chasing us out of the bricks. When I thought no one else goes through what us skateboarders go through. How skating was outlaw style. We go out and skate what we wanted when we wanted. Then a guy from the sky lands in the middle of the bricks and runs for a bit. Turns around and starts gathering and pulling his parachute as he was running cause the cops were on their way. He jumps in a waiting car and was gone before the cops got there. We all just watched him base jump off Embarcadero 4 and he pulled it. It was like a Simpsons episode. Like this one.
Danny Sargent got me on from the start. Thought I was getting on Schmitt Stix. It was official on Earth Day 1990, Chrissy field in SF while Devo was playing in the rain.
Was on for about two years then Andy Howell, Chris Hall and I split to start Underworld Element.
Which of the videos you were in?
Promo/Useless Wooden Toys/1281
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part ?
Probably 1281. Music worked well. Still get asked about it.
Ali Mills and Chris Hall’s part along with Sargent.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
They gave us the opportunity to skate the world over. Meet amazing people throughout, and to this day because of skateboarding, still remain friends.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal.
Nothing really. It was like being in a relationship without fighting. Nothing bad about it, was just awkward at times.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
Danny Sargent - so gnar, and Bustin Justin Girard - so good at everything.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
I think everyone knows about New Deal. Roosevelt. Government programs, regulations and public works projects during the depression.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
I guess it’s pretty strange and cool at the same time. I’d like to try one of their boards.
Tell us some cool shit from the EMB days at Embarcadero. A story we haven't heard
We’re all sitting there thinking about the cops coming and chasing us out of the bricks. When I thought no one else goes through what us skateboarders go through. How skating was outlaw style. We go out and skate what we wanted when we wanted. Then a guy from the sky lands in the middle of the bricks and runs for a bit. Turns around and starts gathering and pulling his parachute as he was running cause the cops were on their way. He jumps in a waiting car and was gone before the cops got there. We all just watched him base jump off Embarcadero 4 and he pulled it. It was like a Simpsons episode. Like this one.
JUSTIN GIRARD
Switch 270 tailgrab!
Where are you living today, and what is your current job?
I live in Washington State, near Portland, with my wife Kristle and son, James. Over the past twenty years I have worked between the creative and software engineering spheres, with a focus on software architecture. Most recently I developed and wrote the architecture for Akamai's Adaptive Media Player product, and I have an extensive background in software development for digital media.
I live in Washington State, near Portland, with my wife Kristle and son, James. Over the past twenty years I have worked between the creative and software engineering spheres, with a focus on software architecture. Most recently I developed and wrote the architecture for Akamai's Adaptive Media Player product, and I have an extensive background in software development for digital media.
When was your favorite era in skateboarding?
Definitely the 80s because that was my formative period in the sport, but every era has its own unique value. This current era is beginning to produce some of the best multi-discipline talent I've ever seen.
Definitely the 80s because that was my formative period in the sport, but every era has its own unique value. This current era is beginning to produce some of the best multi-discipline talent I've ever seen.
Who was your first sponsor, and how did you get hooked up?
Bill's Wheels skate shop was my very first sponsor, a local shop literally a few blocks from my house in Salinas. Brand-X followed that (via Sean Goff and Bob Schmelzer) from a flow standpoint, then Fogtown. My connection with Bob and Brand-X was what landed me on Circle-A eventually.
Bill's Wheels skate shop was my very first sponsor, a local shop literally a few blocks from my house in Salinas. Brand-X followed that (via Sean Goff and Bob Schmelzer) from a flow standpoint, then Fogtown. My connection with Bob and Brand-X was what landed me on Circle-A eventually.
Who is your favorite skater of all time?
No single skater, but for street skating Randy Colvin was always one of my favorites, and for vert Ross Goodman and Ben Schroeder were influential for me.
No single skater, but for street skating Randy Colvin was always one of my favorites, and for vert Ross Goodman and Ben Schroeder were influential for me.
How much, if at all, are you still skating?
As much as my body can sustain and the rain will allow. My primary challenge is a bum right knee.
As much as my body can sustain and the rain will allow. My primary challenge is a bum right knee.
Do you still follow skateboarding - even if it is just browsing YouTube/Instagram?
I keep abreast of developments via my industry friends. My interest is primarily the skating itself, then the culture and art. I'd say the skating is leading the way of those two.
I keep abreast of developments via my industry friends. My interest is primarily the skating itself, then the culture and art. I'd say the skating is leading the way of those two.
Specifically regarding your time on New Deal...
How did you get on New Deal? How long were you on, and were you pro or amateur?
I joined ND through Rick Ibaseta, Andy Howell. and Danny Sargent as a pro, a few months or so after the first round of products were released (I believe, Steve might be able to put a finer date on it). I stayed a team member until Me, Steve, Paul, and Andy agreed to start Mad Circle.
I joined ND through Rick Ibaseta, Andy Howell. and Danny Sargent as a pro, a few months or so after the first round of products were released (I believe, Steve might be able to put a finer date on it). I stayed a team member until Me, Steve, Paul, and Andy agreed to start Mad Circle.
Which of the videos you were in?
I was in UWT, 1281, and Da Deal is Dead.
I was in UWT, 1281, and Da Deal is Dead.
What was your favorite video part of yours, and what was your favorite part of someone else?
A mix of all of them. Rick's UWT and all the vert content.
A mix of all of them. Rick's UWT and all the vert content.
Best thing about riding for New Deal?
Team camaraderie.
Team camaraderie.
Worst thing about riding for New Deal?
Trying to stand out amongst a wildly talented field of teammates.
Trying to stand out amongst a wildly talented field of teammates.
Who was your favorite skater on the team and why?
No favorites, but I'll single out Andy and Gorm for the scope of their contributions to the company and the team from creative and athletic standpoints.
No favorites, but I'll single out Andy and Gorm for the scope of their contributions to the company and the team from creative and athletic standpoints.
Tell us something about New Deal that most people do not know?
Ask Steve and Paul about the infamous 1281 earthquake.
Ask Steve and Paul about the infamous 1281 earthquake.
What do you think about New Deal coming back?
Overwhelmingly positive. It's great to see the impact it had on people, which you tend to overlook given we were all so focused making it what it was at the time.
Overwhelmingly positive. It's great to see the impact it had on people, which you tend to overlook given we were all so focused making it what it was at the time.
How much water polo, scamming on hot babes, driving your fast expensive car, and hanging out in your penthouse do you do these days?
Look for me on the 2020 Olympic Water Polo team, I limit my scamming to my wife, I'm a truck guy now and I sold my penthouse for a 5 acre nest on a green mountain in the woods ;)
Look for me on the 2020 Olympic Water Polo team, I limit my scamming to my wife, I'm a truck guy now and I sold my penthouse for a 5 acre nest on a green mountain in the woods ;)