Part of the problem, in my opinion, is that people don't try things as much as they should. I'd warrant rollerblading is great fun, but I alas have never tried it and thus, do not keep up with it as much as I would with a sport I've actually tried and played.

As for ESPN cutting off these sort of sports, it boils down to ratings and ties in to the other point. Since people haven't tried the sport, they aren't interested in it, and thus, won't tune in to watch it. As much as ESPN declares that it IS All Sports, it does seem to only cover the more "popular" ones, such as baseball, football, golf and basketball because they have such a huge built in viewership.

My hope would be that more people go out and try these sports. I recall skateboarding was not at all popular until the X Games occurred and then suddenly, it exploded. Perhaps, rollerblading and other sports that have not been given the limelight need to find venues to showcase their talents and there entire sports to the public, which in turn will lead to a rise in people who participate and then watch it, which will then perhaps make ESPN air it.

Just a thought.

Take care all.