Governance
Our Commitment to Transparency
At the USA Downhill Skateboarding Association, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of transparency and accountability. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we believe in openly sharing information about our governance and operations with the public. Below, you will find access to key documents such as our bylaws, articles of incorporation, and IRS determination letter.
By providing these documents, we aim to demonstrate our dedication to ethical practices, responsible governance, and our mission of supporting and advancing the sport of downhill skateboarding. We invite all stakeholders, supporters, and members of the community to review these materials and learn more about how we operate as an organization.
Bylaws
The bylaws of the USA Downhill Skateboarding Association (USADSA) serve as the foundation for how our organization operates. These rules and guidelines govern our decision-making processes, leadership structure, and the roles and responsibilities of both board members and athletes. Bylaws ensure that we operate in a fair, consistent, and transparent manner, helping us maintain accountability to our mission and stakeholders. They are essential for guiding our operations and ensuring that we remain aligned with our core values while promoting the growth and integrity of downhill skateboarding and street luge racing.
Articles of Incorporation
The Articles of Incorporation are the legal documents that established the USA Downhill Skateboarding Association (USADSA) as a recognized nonprofit organization. Filed with the state, these documents outline our official name, purpose, and structure. They serve as the legal foundation for our existence and grant us the authority to operate as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization. The Articles of Incorporation are essential for defining our mission, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and formally recognizing our commitment to supporting the development of downhill skateboarding and street luge racing.
501(c)(3) Status
The USA Downhill Skateboarding Association (USADSA) is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This designation means we are exempt from federal income taxes because we operate exclusively for charitable, educational, and sporting purposes. As a 501(c)(3), we are committed to serving the public good by promoting the development of downhill skateboarding and street luge racing in the United States.
This status also means that any donations made to the USADSA are for the donor, which helps us secure the resources needed to support our athletes, organize events, and promote the sport at national and international levels. Our 501(c)(3) status reinforces our commitment to transparency, accountability, and the fulfillment of our mission.
– Bylaws – PDF USADSA BYLAWS
– Articles of Incorporation– PDF USADSA ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
– 501(c)(3) Status – USADSA 501C3 DETERMINATION LETTER
Team Meetings and Open Dialogue
At the USA Downhill Skateboarding Association (USADSA), transparency and open communication are core values that guide how we support our athletes. To ensure that our athletes are informed and have a voice in the direction of the organization, we hold regular team meetings with athletes who have accepted their invitation to join the USA National Team.
These meetings serve multiple purposes:
– They provide a platform for athletes to voice their thoughts, suggestions, and concerns about their experience on the team, as well as the overall operations of the USADSA.
– Athletes are encouraged to share ideas and feedback that can help improve team dynamics, event preparation, or athlete support systems.
– Team meetings promote transparency by ensuring that athletes are kept up to date on current activities, organizational decisions, and future goals of the USADSA. This open dialogue allows athletes to understand what is happening within the organization, including plans for upcoming events, training opportunities, and strategic priorities.
– The meetings foster an environment where everyone is treated with respect, ensuring that all athletes feel heard and valued.
By maintaining regular, open discussions, we aim to build trust and ensure that the athletes are actively involved in shaping the future of downhill skateboarding and street luge racing in the
MEMBERSHIP
Athlete Selection and Support Process
As the national governing body for downhill skateboard racing and street luge racing, the USA Downhill Skateboarding Association (USADSA) is dedicated to supporting top-performing athletes in their journey to compete at the world level. The following outlines the steps and requirements for athletes seeking to represent the USA and receive support from the USADSA.
1. National Championship and Point System
Each year, the USADSA hosts the National Championship, the premier event for downhill skateboard racing and street luge. Athletes who participate in this and other sanctioned events throughout the year earn points based on their performance. Points are awarded for each event, reflecting an athlete’s placement in races and overall participation.
– Points are tracked and updated after each event.
– Athletes are ranked based on cumulative points earned across the season.
2. Invitation to Join the USA National Team
At the end of the competitive season, the top-ranking athletes are extended an invitation to join the USA National Team, representing our country in international competitions. This invitation is based on points accrued during sanctioned events.
3. Athlete Agreement and Contract
Once invited, athletes must formally accept the invitation to join the USA National Team by signing an Athlete Contract, which outlines the following terms:
– Support: The level and nature of support provided by the USADSA, including financial aid, coaching, and other resources.
– Ethics and Conduct: Expectations for athlete conduct, adherence to ethical standards, and commitment to sportsmanship.
– Participation: Requirements for continued participation in USADSA-sanctioned events and international competitions.
– Release of Liability: Legal terms related to safety, risk, and liability, acknowledging the inherent risks in downhill skateboarding and street luge.
Athletes must agree to these terms in order to receive ongoing support and maintain their place on the national team.
4. Declining the Invitation
If an athlete declines to sign the Athlete Contract, they will forfeit their opportunity to join the USA National Team. By doing so, they will no longer be eligible to receive any support, resources, or representation from the USADSA. This decision is final, and the athlete will not have access to financial aid, coaching, or the opportunity to compete under the USADSA’s guidance at the world level.
5. Ongoing Support and Compliance
Athletes who have accepted their invitation and signed the contract will be eligible to receive USADSA support. However, continued support is contingent on the athlete’s compliance with the terms of the contract, including regular participation in events, adherence to ethical standards, and upholding the values of the sport.
For more information on how to qualify, compete, and represent the USA, please contact the USADSA directly here.