Above: “Kelly’s Crashers,” consisting of mentor Kelly Saltern and freshlings Justin Bivens and Aloura Craig, settles in after flying the hill. Photo by Ryan Renteria.
Every skydiver remembers what it was like to be a newly licensed jumper and the feeling of their A license still being fresh. That feeling was in abundance March 19-23 during Fresh Meet at Skydive Perris in California, where 111 participants enjoyed an environment of learning, camaraderie and fun tailored for those who are just spreading their wings.
The fifth annual Fresh Meet was crafted to deliver that boogie vibe without the apprehension that often accompanies being a newbie. Everyone except the seasoned mentors were “freshlings” (fewer than 150 jumps or 18 months in the sport). This ensures a level playing field where participants share in similar sentiments and experience levels, which creates a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
One of the standout features of Fresh Meet is Sky-Curious Speed Dating. (Don’t worry, no romantic pressure here!) This interactive activity is structured like speed dating, but with a skydiving twist. Freshlings rotate through focused conversations with experts from various skydiving disciplines. Each expert shares insights, tips and stories to help new jumpers better understand the sport. For many freshlings, choosing a discipline to focus on can feel overwhelming when every aspect of skydiving is new and exciting. Sky-Curious Speed Dating provides a low-pressure environment for questions and open dialogue. By the end of the sessions, participants had established connections and gained clarity on which paths align with their personal aspirations.
The competitive spirit of the event shines during its 3-way competition, with teams consisting of one mentor and two freshlings. The new jumpers receive top-notch coaching and gain confidence under the guidance of a seasoned skydiver, and it gives mentors the valuable opportunity to hone their coaching skills and connect with younger jumpers. Each team completed four jumps (plus extra practice jumps), with dive flows determined through a drop-zone-wide scavenger hunt.
Mentor Paula Thues walks freshlings Erin Muldoon and Chase Shurtz of “O Chute” through their exit. Photo by Kristian Caulder.
The event was made possible by its many sponsors: Advanced Aerospace Designs Vigil, Alti-2, Apex BASE, The Bombshelter, Bonehead, Cookie Helmets, Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld, Flight-1, Fury Coaching, Gold State Gear, Icarus World, Larsen & Brusgaard, P3 Skydiving, Performance Designs, Skydive Perris, Sound Sentri, Squirrel, SSK Industries, Sun Path and Vertical Suits.
Skydive Perris will be hosting next year’s Fresh Meet March 18-22, 2026.
Cecilia Malise C-55359
Rosenberg, Texas