Skateboarding is getting a new look behind the scenes as skateboarding legends Bob Burnquist and Steve Rodriguez step into general manager roles for the newly launched X Games League.
Burnquist broke the news in his own calm way. He showed love for the road he has been on and said that he is not done growing. Being part of the XGL is about staying involved and helping shape what comes next without losing the soul.
Burnquist Posted:
"Still skating. Still learning.
Grateful for the path so far, and excited about what’s ahead.
Honored to be part of this next chapter with X Games.
XC São Paulo joins Los Angeles, New York, and Tokyo as the inaugural X Games League summer clubs and I’m proud to help shape what comes next from the inside.
Respect to the whole GM group
@sleehze (XC Los Angeles)
@stever_nyc (XC New York)
@goharumix (XC Tokyo)
Obrigado, São Paulo. Let’s build.
📸 Portrait by @ivanshupikov
🎥 Announcement clip filmed by @stever_nyc"
He is holding it down for São Paulo, which is coming in strong alongside Los Angeles, New York, and Tokyo as the first clubs in the league.
Then Rodriguez came through with straight New York energy. He posted from his living room, watching Selema explain the league, clearly fired up about being involved. Rodriguez is not just showing up for the title.
Rodriguez Posted:
"@selema breaking @xgames league down in my living room! Hyped to be involved in this next evolution of X Games. As General Manager my role will be to build and lead the New York club- from drafting the roster and supporting athletes to shaping how New York shows up culturally in the league. Looking forward to the draft in March. Follow @xgames_newyork for more info and updates as my fellow GM’s @bobburnquist @sleehze & @goharumix build out our teams and prepare for the season."
As general manager of the New York club, he is focused on building the team from the ground up. Drafting the roster. Backing the skaters. Making sure NYC shows up how New York is supposed to.
The ladies on the other hand, Sharalee Hazen represents Los Angeles, while Harumi Suzuki represents Tokyo.
As teams start coming together, each city is going to show its own thing. If this start is any sign, the league is being shaped by people who care about the culture first and everything else second. That is how it should be.