Sterre Meijer has officially joined the ranks of pro skaters after receiving her signature board from Plan B Skateboards, a collaboration with Danny Way and Colin McKay.
It should be a moment of celebration, but not everyone in skating is happy to see someone new reach the top.
Some skaters have expressed frustration, wondering why Sterre got a board with her name on it while they are still chasing their own pro status.
Even the gatekeeper Weckingball called the announcement “rage bait,” showing how divided opinions are.
Sterre has been getting a lot of likes on Instagram for her skills and photos, and reactions online mix admiration with criticism. Comments range from praise for her skating to complaints that it’s unfair she made it while others are still waiting.
Through it all, her close friend and filmer Elvis de Koning has been vocal in her defense.
He weighed in on the backlash, pointing out that the negative reactions are missing the bigger picture.
“Hahaha, the comments are wild! These are power moves by both parties. People would rather see skateboarding die out than go with the flow that attracts more people to skating, which would eventually lead to more sales and help companies grow. And when that happens, a lot more skaters could get sponsors. You can’t expect to get deals when there’s no money. Keep the hate up! She’s making moves, ripping every day! Deserved,” Elvis said.
Elvis sticking up for her shows how tight friendships run in the skate world, especially when someone’s catching heat for getting ahead. Even with the backlash, he said Sterre’s skills and grind aren’t going unnoticed by the people who actually know her.
For many fans, Sterre’s achievement is exciting not only because she earned a signature board but also because it signals more opportunities for women in skateboarding. While some may question it, her friends and supporters continue to cheer her on, reminding everyone that skating grows when new talent is celebrated.