Meet Patreze Brinkley of Detroit Stylin’ Skate Club

Today we’d like to introduce you to Patreze Brinkley.

Hi Patreze, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born into the Detroit skate community—my father taught me the Detroit style of roller skating, so it’s always been a part of who I am. Growing up, the skate community felt more like a family. It was a place where people looked out for each other, celebrated together, and passed down tradition. That sense of belonging shaped me deeply.

I fell in love with performing at just five years old, and that passion led me to work hard and earn a spot on the Detroit Rockin Rollers, where we performed in parades and events all over the city. Those early experiences taught me discipline, creativity, and the power of community.

As I got older, I knew I wanted to give back to that same community. That’s why I founded Detroit Stylin Skate Club—a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Detroit-style roller skating and giving young people the chance to perform and grow. A big part of what we offer is that same family feeling I grew up with. We’re not just training skaters—we’re building a supportive community.

We’re also looking ahead. With Detroit style being considered for future Olympic recognition, our mission includes preparing athletes for that stage by blending artistry with athleticism, all while staying rooted in our culture.

Now, we’re getting ready for an international performance in London this July, and we’re excited to partner with brands that believe in empowerment, legacy, and community.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been an entirely smooth road. After being away from the community for 22 years, I came back and reintroduced my father’s tribute show, which was embraced by the skate community. However, things got complicated when we introduced competition. We’ve never had the opportunity to compete in our style before, and now that Detroit-style roller skating is recognized as a sport, we began hosting competitions. The problem is, as we moved forward with the competitive aspect, we saw our support dwindle with each event.

As a nonprofit, we rely on the funds we raise to host these competitions, but it’s not without its challenges. We have to cover sanction fees, membership fees with USA Roller Sports, and a range of other costs to stay eligible to compete. Unfortunately, as support decreased, I had to cover a lot of the expenses out of my own pocket to keep the club and competitions running.

There was also doubt among some people about whether we’d ever reach the Olympics, even if we met the requirements. Because of that, some discouraged skaters from joining the club, and a few who did sign up ended up dropping out in the first season. I understand that this is a new direction for everyone, but none of that is going to stop me from staying focused on my mission. I believe in what we’re building, and I’m committed to pushing forward for the future of Detroit-style roller skating, no matter the challenges.

Another issue was that some people thought this club was all about me, but that’s the furthest thing from the truth. This club is about representing Detroit-style roller skating in both its performative and competitive light, honoring the rich legacy of our culture while pushing it to new heights. It’s always been about the community and the future of the sport, not just one person.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Detroit Stylin Skate Club is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the Detroit style of roller skating. Our mission is to offer a premier roller skating program that empowers skaters to achieve excellence, both in competition and performance. We are committed to developing confident performers by guiding them through the intricacies of USA Roller Sports amateur competitions and Detroit Stylin Skate Club (DSSC) show performances. Our program provides a supportive environment where skaters can perfect the Detroit style—whether through performance or competition—and ultimately become ambassadors of this unique style, sharing and teaching it around the world.

What sets us apart is the deep connection we have to the Detroit skate culture. It’s not just about skating; it’s about preserving a legacy that has been passed down through generations. We’re not only training athletes for competition, but we’re also creating a space for skaters to express themselves, perform, and build lifelong connections—what I grew up with and what we continue to offer.

We’re known for our inclusive environment, where every skater, no matter their skill level, is encouraged to be part of something bigger. Whether it’s a tribute performance, a local competition, or a future Olympic dream, Detroit Stylin Skate Club represents the Detroit skate community as a whole.

One of the things I’m most proud of, brand-wise, is our dedication to authenticity. The club has always been about honoring the Detroit style of skating while pushing it forward. We’ve created a space for people to come together, celebrate, and compete, all while staying true to our roots.

What I want readers to know about Detroit Stylin Skate Club is that it’s more than just a skating club—it’s a movement. It’s about representing Detroit in a global light, empowering our athletes, and preserving a culture that’s uniquely our own. Whether you’re a skater or someone passionate about supporting the sport, we welcome you to join us in this journey to take Detroit-style roller skating to new heights.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I like best about Detroit is that it’s a part of who I am. I was born and raised here, and growing up in the city shaped my entire perspective. I attended Detroit Public Schools, where many of my teachers took the time to build personal relationships with us and made sure we understood where we came from and why we mattered. The community itself was like a family. My mother’s family lived on one block off of Fenkell, but the entire neighborhood looked out for me. As a kid, I could walk to the store knowing there was always someone keeping an eye out for me. Those experiences shaped how I carry myself in life today, and I have the city to thank for that, especially in terms of navigating life as a woman, regardless of the time of day or night.

What I like least about Detroit is the corruption that took hold of the city for a long period. It really impacted the city’s growth and quality of life. However, I’ve seen a tremendous resurgence in recent years. The city is coming back to life, and it’s more beautiful and thriving than ever. I love seeing that, especially as someone who has deep roots here, and I’m proud to witness Detroit’s new birth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.detroitstylinskateclub.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detroitstylinskateclub/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8jpP1UjeRk&list=PLkXNgyU1XM6lKwTHA8X-QtYZXURoteTO1