“This atmosphere, ... it’s kids; it’s cotton candy; it’s Fun Dip,” Justice said. “It’s all of those nostalgic things that people remember when they walk in the door. ... It takes them back to their childhood.”
Located in Spring, the roller skating rink is owned by Paul and Wanda Hedrick with Justice managing the location since 1999.
Skating has always been a big part of the Hedrick family’s life, Justice said. The couple met at a roller skating rink that used to be open on FM 1960; Paul was a skate instructor, while Wanda worked at the snack bar. Later, their son went to the Olympics for his speed ice skating talent.
“It’s been a blessing to serve the families of this community through skating, and we look forward to making great memories here for years to come,” Wanda said.
Today, the rink continues to welcome families through its doors offering snacks and arcade games, in addition to skating. It also doubles as an event venue.
“I’ve seen a lot of kids come through, and I think it’s really healthy for them, not only physically, but for the mental health aspect of it as well,” Justice said.
While more adults began visiting Skate Champions in 2020 after picking up a new hobby during the pandemic, Justice said the environment remains family focused.
“I think [it] matters to families that when ... they bring their kids in here, they know that they’re in a safe environment and that they know their kids aren’t going to hear or see something that’s not family friendly,” he said.
In addition to public skating, the rink also offers classes for skaters of all experience levels.
“Skating has so many different personalities and flavors and colors to it,” Justice said. “So it’s really kind of fun to see it all kind of blended together.”
Skate Champions
5504 Fellowship Lane, Spring
281-370-0750
www.skatechampions.com
Hours: Tue. 5-9 p.m., Thu. 6-9:30 p.m., Fri. 5-10 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m., closed Mon. and Wed.
