The Athletes

  The number of participants in Earth Sports is
  growing rapidly, due in large part to the growing
  acceptance of these participants as "athletes". These
  sports allow for personal freedom and expression.
  The forces of nature impose rules, but there is no
  need for coaches, uniforms, fields, courts or
  diamonds. One in ever four young adults uses a
  skateboard, they also choose snowboarding over
  skiing at a four to one ratio. Aggressive in-line
  skating and cycling have become the panacea for
  youth, looking to take advantage of the local terrain.
  It all adds up to millions of young adults hungry for
  athletic achievement and willing to engulf themselves
  in a lifestyle that unconditionally accepts and
  supports them. Their numbers are growing, their
  influence is getting stronger  they are generation
  NEXT.