Sport? Not A Sport?

THIS WEEK: SKATEBOARD

NOT A SPORT
"Hell no. It's a recreational activity, like roller-skating."
—Blue Jays outfielder Jose Cruz

SPORT
"It takes hard work and mental discipline, and there's money involved. Skateboarders are definitely athletes."
—Giants pitcher Shawn Estes

NOT A SPORT
"It's a hobby. It's something you do when you're bored, like fishing."
—Florida tailback Robert Gillespie

SPORT
"I saw this guy come off a half-pipe, then skid down a rail, then flip his board with his feet before it landed back on the half-pipe. That takes athletic ability. It's definitely more of a sport than, say, bowling."
—Broncos strong safety Billy Jenkins

NOT A SPORT
"There's certainly skill involved, but it's more of a daredevil-type thing."
—Indians first baseman Jim Thome

SPORT
"It's not only a sport, it's a fashion statement."
—Nets general manager John Nash

NOT A SPORT
"They're trying to make everything a sport. Why not grocery bagging at Albertson's? These days they even call putt-putt golf a sport. That's just trailer-trash activity. Sure it takes skill to do these things, but is it a sport?"
—Marlins infielder Dave Berg

SPORT
"Anything where you have a chance to get hit by a car has to qualify as a sport."
—Angels coach Mickey Hatcher