It may seem like a toy of the past, but with new gravity defying moves, Richard Pickett is making the yo-yo look like the toy of the future.

“If it’s really a thing of the past, why am I doing it right now?” Pickett said with a laugh.

What You Need To Know

  • Richard Pickett strives to bring his love of yo-yoing to anyone and everyone interested in participating

  • The New York Yo-Yo club has over 500 members, but anyone passing by can pick up a toy and learn a simple move
  • Pickett has traveled the world competing in yo-yo competitions
  • The main goal is to create a space where kids can increase their confidence and feel supportive

This Bronx native’s love for yo-yoing started at 16. After struggling with bullying in school, he found a creative release through his orange Duncan imperial yo-yo.

Now he’s sponsored — and with a yo-yo company of his own. Pickett has traveled the globe showing off his moves. But it’s here, in the food court of Brookfield Place, Pickett finds the most joy.

“I’m glad that there is a space now and it’s only going to continue to thrive and bring a lot of growth,” said Pickett.

The New York Yo-Yo Club meets every Sunday. When it’s warmer they go to Washington Square Park. It’s a chance for the more than 500 members to show off their skills and learn new ones.

“You see them first try to struggle a little bit," Pickett explained. "But then like after two or three meetings you see them trying to do what I’m doing and you’re like, ‘Oh my!’ I wish I would have had something like that many years ago, but i’m so glad it’s happening for these kids.”

Pickett’s main goal is to create a space for kids to feel welcomed and wanted.

“He’s really one of those people who not only wants to share his passion but also make sure that you learn," said Brian Melford, a leader of the New York Yo-Yo Club. "That you actually have the tools for your own success whatever that looks like.”

Melford connected with Pickett through social media, thrilled to see someone who looked like him sharing the same pastime. Now they work together teaching anyone and everyone yo-yo tricks. From the original moves to the modern twists.

“There’s a yo-yo lane for everyone," Melford said. "Yo-yo is one of the only things that anyone can participate in.”

“The yo-yo is always at the heart of it," said Pickett. "Like I truly believe that yo-yoing could change the world.”

For shooting kids confidence to the moon with a little walk the dog, Richard Pickett is our New Yorker of the Week.