Edison, NJ has claim to fame beyond innovation – it’s the hometown of skateboarding icon and punk rock frontman, Mike Vallely. Inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame in 2021, Mike’s journey from rebellious teen to celebrated athlete is one marked by grit and unwavering hometown pride.
In the mid-1980s, a young Mike Vallely honed his skills at Wick Plaza, while often being chased out by the local police in an era when skateboarding wasn’t always welcomed. The irony that the Edison Police would later invite him back for skate demos wasn’t lost on Mike. “I grew up around here, and now the Edison Police invite me to come back, one of the great ironies of life,” he remarked during a 2007 demo at the Edison skate park hosted by the Edison PBA.
“We had a spot called the Noside banks, which is Edison spelled backwards. That was a small asphalt bank with a curb on top, behind Dunkin Donuts and Burger King, it was a great, great spot. Some of the best skating I’ve ever seen in my life went down there, undocumented and by guys you’ve never heard of.” Vallely said in a 2008 interview. “You’d hear about kids taking the train to skate the Noside banks and obviously after I was sponsored, it became an even bigger spot. People knew I skated there and there’d be intense sessions. It was great.”
Despite his global fame, Edison always held a special place in Mike’s heart. “I’m proud to be from Edison, and it will always be my hometown,” he declared in 2015 at demo for the re-dedication of the Edison Skatepark. His semi-autobiographical comic book released in 2023, “Blvd of the Eagles,” delves into his formative years in Edison, offering a glimpse into the spirit of the place that shaped him.
Mike Vallely’s influence extends far beyond the skatepark. His fierce determination and DIY attitude made him a natural frontman for the legendary hardcore punk band, Black Flag. Ever the entrepreneur, he founded Street Plant in 2015 and Farmhouse Industries in 2023 which is a 100% independent music, skateboarding and publishing company further solidifying his legacy within the skateboarding community.
With Mike Vallely’s legendary status cemented by his 2021 induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame, a passionate movement has emerged to honor his legacy. Advocates are pushing to rename the Edison Skate Park in Vallely’s honor, recognizing his immense contributions to the sport and his loyal embrace of his hometown. Vallely’s fierce determination and unwavering authenticity embody the very spirit of skateboarding. Renaming the park would not only celebrate a local hero but also inspire generations of Edison youth to embrace the same relentless drive that propelled Vallely to the top of his sport.
Whether the skate park is named after him or not Mike Vallely embodies the hard work, resilience, and unwavering spirit that defines Edison. His journey from being chased by the cops from Wick Plaza to the Skateboarding Hall of Fame is an inspiration, proving that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. You can learn more about Mike Vallely and support his independent family owned and operated business here:
