Meet The Oranges!

Jon Stotts

Jon is Skydive Orange’s supervising parachute rigger – meaning he makes sure all of the parachutes are getting packed properly – Jon has 400+ jumps and has been in the sport since 2010. Prior to Jon being the supervising rigger, he was also a parachute packer, himself for 5+ years. 

Why did you start skydiving? I always wanted to and knew people that did but didn’t realize exactly how close a drop zone was to me or how easy it is to get into the sport. My best friend’s Dad,  worked at Skydive Orange and helped me get a summer job as a packer and it just took off from there.

What has skydiving taught you?: Skydiving has taught me patience and without risk, there is no reward. In the AFF program you will learn patience and skydiving.. in that order… there are many days where you’ll be sitting on the ground watching everyone else jump due to weather but always remember it’s better to be on the ground wishing you were in the sky, then up there wishing you were down here… Also, as far as risks, skydiving is a risky sport, without a doubt, but you will never find anything in your lifetime that can compare to the feeling of flight.

Why do you think everyone should try skydiving once in their lifetime? You have to try skydiving at least once in your lifetime because it’s an experience you just can’t explain, you have to do it to understand.. There’s just no other feeling like it. On the RARE chance you do it and hate it, then you never have to do it again.

Why Skydive Orange? Skydive Orange is like my second family. The people/atmosphere here is just incredible everyone will always support you and help you reach your goals, after they laugh at you for biffing, first. The staff, equipment and facility are top notch!

Advice for 1st timers: RELAX. Enjoy the ride and remember to have fun.

If you need your reserve packed and would like to ask Jon to do it, you can get in touch with him via email: jstotts.rigging@gmail.com

**biffing-landing your parachute, not so gracefully..