Stoneham Native Wins $5K, Top Collegiate Skateboarder Honors in Florida

When Nathan Principato traveled to Panama City Beach, Fla. last weekend he wanted to prove to the skateboarding world that he was a name to remember for years to come. 

Principato, 23, impressed judges and spectators to win the Maloof U Skate Madness competition and $5,000. He submitted a video of his skateboarding abilities as did hundreds of others, and beat the three other collegiate finalists, all of whom participated in two events: a 12-minute jam where everyone skated at the same time on the street course and a 15-minute best trick skate, flown in for free to compete at the event.

When asked how it feels to be tabbed the "Best College Skateboarder in America," Principato knew it was a long time coming.

“It feels great," Principato said. "I’ve been skating nonstop for about seven years now and it's nice to know I'm able to put that skill to use for something that is going to help me out with school."

Principato attends the Art Institute of California, where he is a graphic design major. He already has plans to put his degree to good use.

“I'm starting my own company called Idle Time Designs," Principato said. "It's an underground culture: skate culture, music, clothing, and design. It will be an art motivated company.

“I also want to work for a successful company as a graphic designer."

Principato always rode around on his skateboard as a youngster, but never knew it would lead to such an honor of being so well-respected by other skateboarders around the world.

“I’ve always loved skateboarding," Principato confessed. "I started when I was about 12, but never really understood how much of a role it was going to play in my life until just recently.”

The techniques of being a great skateboarder go unnoticed. The individual needs to be in great shape, have quick feet, and have tremendous balance. Principato, a 2006 graduate of and son of Paul and Margaret-Rose Principato, works on each aspect every day.

“I usually go to the skate park down the street during the week," Principato said. "I skate for a few hours a day.

“Other skateboarders are there too, so it's great. Then, I will go out and street skate on the weekends."

Principato’s favorite move is a frontside flip. It's a trick in which the skateboard is kick-flipped and spun at a 180-degree angle while the rider turns in a front side body maneuver.