Jeff Rasp

Craziest thing you’ve seen at FDR?

Any event at FDR brings out the crazy people. Rip Ride Rally was fired up and some of the best skating I’ve ever seen go down at the park. It’s hard to say the craziest thing I’ve ever seen but watching someone fall over the back of the bunker wall always freaks me out. 

First board you ever rode?

First board was a yellow banana board from my grandparents basement. I chipped my baby teeth riding it on my stomach. Years later a friend gave me a WWF skateboard, with like Stone Cold Steve Austin and Goldberg on it. That’s the board I did my first tricks on. 

All time hero?

I’m going to have to say my Dad. He quit drinking over 10 years ago, works hard to support the family, and still has time to do what he loves which is playing music with his band. He’s taught me to work hard but always encouraged me to follow skating and have fun. Thanks for everything Dad. 

Last thing that got you hyped to skate?

Watching the footage of Tyler winning Sober vs Wasted a couple days ago. 

Wood or concrete?

Concrete.  Even if it hurts more to slam. 

Best person to have on the session? 

Any friends that bring the stoke. Caroline Duerr and Tyler Yuraszeck are both great hype people. They know how to have fun. 

Trick you wish you had on lock?

Mctwist haha. I pulled one while visiting camp Woodward years ago and told myself I was going to keep doing them. Maybe if Philly had a vert ramp it would be easier. 

Indoor or outdoor parks? 

Skating outdoors is better to me but growing up in Illinois and now living in Philly you need an indoor spot to survive the winters. 

Am who should be pro?

Definitely Alder Wilson. He’s the best skater and best dude. If you know him you know, and if not look him up. C’mon Roger Skateboards let’s see it happen!!

What’s next for you in 2024?

Right now it’s staying healthy and continue to push myself to film more. I’m typing this up with three broken ribs and a lacerated kidney so I’m resting and healing to end this year. 

What does skateboarding mean to you?

Skateboarding means everything to me. It kept me from going down a dark path as a kid. It’s brought the best people into my life. It keeps me healthy physically and mentally. Skateboarding also means community to me. Travel all over the world and all you need to see is another person skating and you already have one thing in common. All my best friends came from skating.

Photos: Will Stickney

Originally published in Issue 2 - January 2024