Why walk if you can skate? Exactly why is what these youngsters set out to discover. Okay, so there were some spectacular falls, some bruises, but no broken bones (or damaged egos) thanks to the protection wear offered by the SFC Coastal Pirates Club. Luckily coach, Phil Boudreault, is there to assist and give a helping hand. Amidst whoops of laughter, wannabe skaters are helped to their feet (or should I rather say wheels) and pointed in the right direction.

Anyone used to nothing more adventurous than a pair of well-worn sneakers will tell you that donning footwear attached to wheels borders on madness. It is like walking on ice with greased soles and no handbrake. So why do it? Because it's fun. And fun is what these youngsters from Mondesa's DRC project are having for a whole eight weeks. Learning to skate is like learning to fly - the initial take-off may be bumpy, but then they get wings. Yes - it does require practice and perseverance and perseverance is what these young recruits have in abundance. This vital ingredient, mixed with a healthy dose of enthusiasm and garnished with a hockey stick could be the beginnings of a future National Squad for Namibia. This is exactly what the SFC Inline Skating Club (aka the Coastal Pirates) has set out to do. Little escapes the beady eye of National Coach, Phil Boudreault, and he is quick to spot and develop talent. And talent is plentiful. In line with the Club's policy, recruits showing dedication and potential, are absorbed into the Coastal Pirates teams.