Tracking Down Brent Atchley: The Skateboarder's Journey Beyond the Spotlight

In the mid-2000s, the skateboarding scene was dominated by massive stair sets and lengthy handrails. If you weren’t captivated by skaters launching themselves down 14-stair sets, you might have found yourself drawn to the fluid style of Brent Atchley. His appearances in Elementality and This Is My Element showcased a unique ability to effortlessly navigate Burnside, making it appear as though he was casually surfing its colossal transitions. Brent’s distinctive flow and style set him apart during a time when technical tricks were the focus for many other professional skateboarders.

Just as quickly as Brent rose to prominence, he seemingly vanished from the skateboarding industry, leaving many to wonder what happened to him. At Jenkem, there were often discussions about a “Where Are They Now” style interview with Brent, but it never quite materialized. That is, until recently, when he released a new part with Satori Wheels, displaying the same mesmerizing flow we remembered.

It turns out that Brent now works as a peer support specialist with Push Movement when he’s not at Burnside. To understand more about his current profession and why he stepped away from the global skateboarding spotlight, we went to Portland to find him. Fortunately, we didn’t have to search for too long. Brent was willing to share his story and insights with us.

Brent Atchley in Portland

Table of Contents

Brent Atchley’s Transition from Pro Skater to Peer Support Specialist

Brent Atchley’s skateboarding career in the early 2000s was marked by his unique style, particularly his ability to flow around transitions with grace and apparent ease. Unlike many of his contemporaries who focused on technical street skating, Brent’s approach was rooted in smooth lines and creative use of skatepark features. His footage from this era highlights his distinct talent, making him a memorable figure for many skateboarding fans.

However, the skateboarding landscape changed, and so did Brent’s path. After stepping away from the spotlight, he transitioned into a role as a peer support specialist. This job involves using his personal experiences to help and guide others who may be facing various challenges. Through Push Movement, Brent works to empower people with his empathy and understanding, demonstrating a commitment to community well-being. This shift from the demanding world of professional skateboarding to a career focused on supporting others reflects a deep sense of purpose and a genuine desire to make a positive impact.

Why Brent Stepped Away from the Limelight

Brent’s decision to leave professional skateboarding wasn’t due to a lack of passion or skill. Instead, it was a conscious choice to pursue other meaningful opportunities. The demanding lifestyle of a professional skater, often involving constant travel and competition, can be difficult to sustain long-term. For Brent, the transition to peer support has allowed him to use his experiences to benefit others and contribute to a community, offering a different perspective from the high-profile world he once occupied. His choice demonstrates that success isn’t defined by fame or sponsorships, but by making choices that align with personal values and goals.

Brent’s story isn’t about leaving skateboarding entirely. His recent part with Satori Wheels shows that his passion for skateboarding hasn’t diminished. He still enjoys skating, now on his own terms, and it’s still a significant part of his life. This balance between his skateboarding roots and his current career showcases his adaptability and commitment to personal growth and well-being.

The Importance of Flow and Transition in Skateboarding and Life

The concept of “flow” was key to Brent Atchley’s skateboarding style. It wasn’t about just completing the most technical tricks but about the way he linked them together in a seamless and organic manner. This approach to skating can be a metaphor for the transitions and changes that occur in life. Brent’s journey is a perfect example. He has seamlessly transitioned from a professional skateboarding career to a career in peer support, demonstrating that the ability to flow and adapt is essential for personal growth.

His focus on transitions in skateboarding, a skill he honed at Burnside, translates well to his work at Push Movement. By assisting others through their own difficult transitions, he is embodying his philosophy of flow. He applies the same smooth, intuitive process to help those he works with as he did when he glided effortlessly through skateparks.

The story of Brent Atchley serves as a reminder that success can be measured in many ways. While he was once known for his skateboarding prowess, his current role shows that there are multiple ways to achieve impact and personal fulfillment. Brent’s story provides a valuable lesson on how to embrace transitions, find purpose in unexpected places, and leverage one’s own experiences to support others.

Conclusion

Tracking down Brent Atchley revealed more than just a “where are they now” story; it uncovered a narrative of personal growth, transition, and the ongoing impact of skateboarding on his life. From the spotlight of professional skateboarding to the fulfilling work of peer support, Brent’s journey highlights the importance of adaptability, finding purpose, and making a difference. His story inspires the skateboarding community and beyond, proving that true success lies in the unique path each person creates for themselves. Brent Atchley’s legacy is not just as a talented skateboarder, but also as a dedicated individual who has found a way to integrate his love for skateboarding with his desire to help others.

His commitment to supporting those who are going through difficult times reflects a genuine desire to give back to his community and use his own experiences for the greater good. His story is an encouragement to others to embrace change and continue to seek fulfillment in all they do, both on and off the skateboard.