Risk of injury aside, I would be thrilled if my kids end up skateboarders. A pack of kids spending hours on their skateboards means physical fitness, developing balance, feeling a sense of accomplishment at new tricks. It's the polar opposite of sitting on the couch digging into a bag of Funyuns.

Another reason is professional skateboarding legend Tony Hawk. He's in his 40s now but still improving his moves as he deepens worldwide respect for the sport. Hawk is the real deal, Forbes named him the third most-influential athlete in America. Third ... after Tiger and Lance. The not-for-profit Tony Hawk Foundation builds skate parks in low-income communities -- a true need if you consider there's 13 million skaters and fewer than 3,000 skate parks. Support for the sport is looking up -- adults who spent plenty of time on a skateboard are entering community and corporate positions of power.

Consider this fact: In a 27east interview this past summer, Hawk pointed out there are more kid skateboarders than Little Leaguers. Kids find skating especially appealing because there's an immediacy to participation, plenty of adrenaline and constant action. No yawning in right field waiting for a fly ball. It's an individual sport requiring no formal practices/games. You rely on yourself. A few more reasons why there's a skateboard in our garage and plenty of wood to set up jumps.