They are Iowa boys coming to Ames to get a degree, not a criminal record. They work and go to classes.

They can’t afford lawyers or fines. They are not looking for trouble or to break the law.

They have found a sport they like and want to develop a skill. The sport is skateboarding.

It is not a mainstream sport like baseball, basketball or football. Many in the community have never seen skateboarding.

Skateboarding is offbeat and different, which may be a part of the appeal.

Young people often like to be different. Their preferred dress is baggy and sometimes tattered, offbeat and different.

Their hair is long, short or whatever they have chosen to represent their individuality.

Their common bond is skateboarding. They may be trying to show that materialism is not number one, but I believe that friendship and sharing a common interest is more important.

They reject the idea that skateboarders are out to cause trouble, be destructive and challenge authority.

This group of young men have started a club, and their officers have talked with Iowa State University.

They have become an official and recognized club.

They have been working with some members of the Ames community to find a place designated for skateboarding. They are working within the system to be recognized.

ESPN shows skateboard competitions entitled “Destination Extremes.” The 1996 Summer Olympics opening program invited skateboarders to demonstrate their sport.

Waynella Runcie

Mother of a skateboarder