I first got into skateboarding at age 15 back in South Africa. That was 24 years ago, and from then on, skating was everything: I went semi-pro, hung out at every spot I could find (not easy, since there were only a handful of skateparks around so spot creating was part of the game), and met skaters with different styles and stories. In SA, you were seriously lucky if you had a park in your town.

Life took me down a few roads, and after some tough years and pressing pause on skating, I moved to Germany in 2022.
I wanted better opportunities, mainly for my kids, and honestly, Germany’s packed with skateparks. The only real downside? Winters are wet and most parks here are outdoors. You’ve got to adapt, but that’s part of the fun and part of what it means to be a skateboarder.

My biggest reason for getting back into skating was Noah, my son. Once he was born, I picked up my board again but not to chase comps or anything but just to bring him along for the ride and show him what old school means. He’s growing up in a new world, and I try to bring the roots of skating I knew into the now. Watching him find his style is hands down the best part.

I started Da Famous Warrior to document all this and what it’s like skating here after South Africa, testing gear in real sessions, connecting with skaters, and sharing the experience of building this with my kid all while also trying to learn to speak German.

“Da Famous Warrior” comes from my name, Louis, which means famous warrior from old Proto-Germanic roots (funny how that worked out). It’s about sticking to what matters, pushing through the wet days, and making skating a part of our story.

If you want honest reviews, gear guides tried and tested in the wild (sometimes in the rain), or just want to talk skater dad stuff, you’re in the right place. This site is mostly me and Noah, living in Heinsberg, Germany.

Got questions or want to connect? Hit me up at dafamouswarrior@admin.
Thanks for checking out Da Famous Warrior—it means a lot. See you at the skatepark (or waiting for the ground to dry)