Skate Jam Coming to Hazlet

On September 20, a popular Keyport event will be coming to Hazlet: a skate jam.  

For a small fee, children can show off their tricks on skateboards and scooters in contests divided by age. Prizes will be awarded to winners. But it’s not only about the competition; the event will also include an educational workshop. In previous years, experts were brought in to teach children about different topics, such as safety and skateboard-building. Give-a-ways will go on all day, allowing everyone to walk home with something. People will even be able to cool off with Ralph’s Italian Ices. Children from every town are welcome to attend.  

Keyport Recreation member Christine Matarese originally began holding the jam when plans to install a skate park in Keyport were cancelled. She wanted to give back to children who dedicated their time to the cause by bringing in portable ramps and equipment for a fun time. Donations came in from many local businesses.  

Since then, the event has grown to attract about 100 people per year. But this time, Matarese is planning on utilizing Hazlet Recreation’s official skate park to make it even bigger.

“I decided to move it to Hazlet due to the fact of the kids becoming so advanced over the years, and they would have more options to do their tricks at a full sized park,” she said.

Cliff Moore, president of Keyport Bayfront Business Cooperative and Hazlet Recreation person for this year’s skate jam, believes that this will also be a good opportunity to bring communities together for a good cause.

“I think it’s a good opportunity for the two towns to share something, and at the same time do something with kids that kids will be doing on the street anyway,” he said.  

The skate jam will be held at 1776 Union Avenue.