Interview with Anthony Shetler, Professional Skateboarder

Sport - Interview

by Meryem Aksoy

Anthony Shetler is a professional skateboarder who made his first step on to the skateboard at the age of 13. Some of the biggest brands in the skateboarding have been sponsored him until the recession that changes the market. And after the recession, he decided to establish his own brand with the experience of knowing the right and wrong decisions of big brands. Now he is supporting the next generation of the skateboard with his own brand 'ALL I NEED'. I had the opportunity to interview Anthony Shetler, a professional skateboarder, who has an experience in both sides of the sponsorship agreements as a skateboarder and a brand owner, about sponsorship. Enjoy the interview and keep riding to your dreams.

Anthony Shetler

Anthony, what does skateboarding means for you?

Skateboarding saved my life. It means everything to me!

How did you discover the skateboarding passion that takes you to the streets? Who or what encouraged you?

When I was about 13 years old I was a lost, confused, angry child due to living in a broken home. This is right when I found skateboarding! A kid named Dale was super nice to me and gave me my first board. I've been hooked ever since.

Anthony Shetler

Could you tell us about yourself and skateboarding career?

I've been able to develop my character and to find meaning through the act of skateboarding!! I've been sponsored by the biggest brands in skateboarding (birdhouse, zoo york, world industries) Been fortunate to be able to travel around the globe to skateboard. Once the recession hit America I lost all my sponsors and took my savings and put it into my own skateboard brand which I called "All I Need". Now I run the brands and sponsor the next generation of skateboards.

Anthony Shetler

How could you define your riding style? Could you tell us about your achievements?

I have a raw street style approach to skating. I grew up in the streets and just lurked around cities filming video parts! As far as achievements go I've managed to pull myself out of poverty and am in a position to help other now. Those are my biggest accomplishments.

Anthony Shetler

Do you work in any company now, or are you just focusing on your brand and skateboarding?

I own my brand ALL I NEED and I have also currently the brand manager for World Industries.

What is the best way to attract sponsors' attention?

Build up your skate community and be self-efficient.

Which brand sponsored you first?

My first sponsor was 5boro skateboards. They gave me the chance to travel and to meet epic people in the skate industry.

What contributions do sponsor brands provide you? What do sponsors expect and demand from skateboarders?

If you have a sponsor make sure to be a great brand ambassador. Skate & wear the products they send you, travel, meet people, create engaging skate content, support your local skate community and if you don't have on build one up!

Anthony Shetler

Do you have any advice for skateboarders who want to pursue a professional career?

Don't rely on sponsorship to make it happen. Focus on your skating and building up those around you! together you can create an epic skate culture and legacy. Don't be scared to travel and go outside your comfort zone, This is where opportunities are. Once you don't need a sponsor that is when they will come a knocking.

What is next for you?

Continue to nourish and grow skateboarding in every way I can!

Thank you Anthony for this enjoyable interview.

For more information, please visit website of Anthony Shetler

This interview was conducted in a Question-and-Answer format. The answers were checked for grammar and punctuation and published without any additional editing. Saturday, August 25, 2018. All photos are the property of their respective owners.