Roller Skating Community Thrives at Liverpool’s Invisible Wind Factory

A vibrant community of roller skaters has taken shape at the Invisible Wind Factory in Liverpool’s Ten Streets area, where enthusiasts gather weekly to enjoy a beloved pastime. The Rollerdome welcomes individuals of all ages and skill levels, offering a supportive environment that combines music, fun, and social connection.

The resurgence of roller skating in the area has attracted a diverse crowd. Weekly classes cater to everyone from beginners to seasoned skaters, creating a lively atmosphere that emphasizes enjoyment and camaraderie. Instructors like Owen Lennon, Amy Cottom, and Reilly Taylor play pivotal roles in guiding participants around the rink, helping them to develop their skills while fostering a sense of community.

Amy Cottom, 29, shared her journey with the ECHO, stating, “There was a big spike in roller skating just after COVID, and I thought it looked fun. I bought some skates, practiced in my kitchen, and then I heard about this rink opening.” Her first visit to the Rollerdome was transformative, despite the challenges of skating while wearing masks. “The community was quite small back then, so I didn’t know any of these guys,” she recalled.

Owen, 43, also rediscovered his passion for skating after his wife encouraged him to join beginner classes. “I did it on and off, but as you get married and take on more responsibilities, you take a step back,” he explained. “Around 2021, I tried quad skating again, and the music and connection with skating made me fall in love with it.”

Reilly, 42, started skating at a gay roller disco in Manchester and connected with Owen at the Rollerdome on New Year’s Eve nearly two years ago. Their shared enthusiasm for skating led them to launch the Instagram community page called Invisible Skate Tribe, which has since flourished with hundreds of followers. This platform aims to unite skaters and celebrate their shared passion for gliding, speed, and dance.

As the community grew, so did the demand for instruction. Owen noted, “I found people were asking me how to do things, and I was asking Amy how she did it. So, I approached the higher-ups and began teaching lessons on Sundays.” His classes cater to intermediate skaters, while Amy leads Thursday night sessions designed for newcomers.

Every Thursday from 18:30, the Rollerdome hosts beginner and improver classes, followed by the popular Rhythm & Roll Skate, which begins at 19:30. Participants can skate, dance, and enjoy the music in an inclusive environment. Amy emphasizes that the experience is beneficial for everyone, stating, “If you enjoy dancing but feel a bit awkward, you can get on the skates and take away that feeling. It’s so much fun and great to be a part of.”

Reilly supports Amy during classes, providing assistance to newcomers and helping them navigate the rink. “It’s nice to give back and help people put on their skates or move around the room,” he noted.

The impact of this community extends beyond just fun and exercise. Owen described how roller skating has been life-changing for him. “I didn’t think it would, but it has totally changed my life. I made a whole new group of friends, which I never expected,” he stated. Reilly echoed this sentiment, sharing that his transition from a dog groomer to a skating instructor has significantly altered his path. “It was a midlife crisis for me to be able to skate backwards before I was 40. Coming here and meeting Owen, Amy, and everyone has turned this into a career for me.”

Skating activities are not limited to the Invisible Wind Factory. The community also organizes events at iconic locations like Pier Head and even internationally, with a special gathering scheduled in Barcelona soon. Participants are free to join and leave the community as they wish, always welcomed back.

Owen highlighted the unique atmosphere of their group, stating, “The vibe, the energy, the music, and the people is everything. People often comment on how they see us in videos doing group activities. There’s a real connection.”

While some may worry about falling or struggling to learn, Amy reassures newcomers that it is part of the process. “We fall over every week. If you’re not falling, you’re not learning,” she explained. The focus is on creating a supportive environment where skaters can safely learn to fall and get back up, fostering resilience and encouragement among participants.

In a world where community connections can often feel fleeting, the roller skating scene at the Invisible Wind Factory offers a heartwarming reminder of the joy and transformation that shared passions can bring.