Founder of The Orchid Skatepark
Pro Coach and Founder of SB Skate Academy
Pro Skater and Expert Coach at SB Skate Academy
Pro Skateboarding Coach
Pro Coach and Owner of Solvang Skateshop
Pro Skater, Photographer and Instructor
Pro Skater, Photographer and Instructor
Board member and Artist
Sammy Baptista was born in Santa Barbara and was first sponsored at 11 years old by Powell Peralta. At age 14, he was sponsored by Shorty’s Skateboards and was featured in the classic video “Fulfill the Dream”.
Sammy quickly made a name for himself on the skate scene with his technical tricks and creative approach. Throughout his career, Sammy has been featured in numerous skate videos and magazines, showcasing his talent and passion for the sport.
Aside from his successful skateboarding career, Sammy has also been involved in various projects, supporting causes such as empowering the youth through skateboarding.
After retiring from the professional skateboarding circuit in 2013, Sammy has continued to advocate for the skateboarding community and is a source of inspiration for aspiring skateboarders.
Today, Sammy remains active in the skateboarding world as a coach and mentor for the sport. He continues to inspire others to pursue their passions and use skateboarding to impact their communities positively.
Mike grew up skateboarding in Goleta, eventually turning pro in the mid 90’s where he toured the country skating alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. Today he teaches skateboarding lessons in his home town Santa Barbara & Goleta, and provides coaching to all ages and skill levels.
https://triumphskateboarding.com/
Jacob Tacoma, 43, is a Santa Barbara native and lifelong resident. He grew up surfing the local breaks, skating the Powell Skate Zone, and competing statewide from a young age, bringing more than 30 years of skateboarding experience to the local scene.
Local skater and owner of Solvang Skateshop. Robby has been skating for nearly 30 years and teaching for roughly 20 years. Book a lesson with Robby to work on having a better understanding of your board and your body and the relationship between both. Learn and understand automatic responses, foundational movement, board and body control and more.
Visit the Solvang Skateshop Website
Ryan Rullman is from Goldsboro, NC. He currently resides in Santa Barbara, CA. He rides for Another Skate Shop in Carolina Beach, NC, Bones Wheels (Flow), and Summa Job Clothing. He has been skateboarding for over 20 years and has been teaching skateboarding at Camp Woodward, PA, and Woodward West since 2015. Ryan currently works with kids ages 6-12 across Santa Barbara County and is CPR and first aid certified.
Benji Bearman is a native of Goleta and Santa Barbara with over 20 years of skateboarding experience and 10 years as a dedicated skateboarding instructor. Known for his expertise and approachable teaching style, Benji creates a supportive and engaging environment for individuals looking to learn and enjoy skateboarding. He has contributed to programs at Woodward West and Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation, and is CPR certified. Benji offers both one-on-one and group lessons tailored to various skill levels.
Amelia Taylor is an artist, community organizer, and board member of The Orchid Skatepark nonprofit. She paints large-scale murals at the skatepark, leads volunteer painting teams, and produces live paintings at music festivals and local events.
Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Amelia grew up skateboarding and snowboarding and has been active in community skate events and fundraisers since her youth. She is passionate about helping local youth find healthy outlets through skateboarding and creative expression.
On the nonprofit board she develops partnerships between The Orchid Skatepark and local organizations to expand programming, outreach, and fundraising. Her work blends project leadership, volunteer coordination, and community engagement to keep the park vibrant and accessible.
A website developer and graphic designer, Amelia builds user-focused sites and visual materials that strengthen the skatepark’s online presence and support outreach efforts. Her practice centers on art-driven community connection and empowering young people through skate culture.
The Orchid Skatepark is a hidden gem paradise offers everything from skate lessons, camping, live bands, good times, and much more.
