Louie Vito has always been a hustler and it's paid off. Raised in the Midwest, Vito had to work hard to get known on the National circuit. By the time he'd graduated high school he was well known as a "up-and-comer" within the snowboarding industry. Just a few years later now, and Vito is undeniably one of the best in the business.

Most people know him best for his podium finishes in the halfpipe and his advertisements in the mags (and most recently for his appearance on ABC's primetime television show "Dancing With the Stars") but what people don't know about Louie Vito is that he is a very well-rounded rider. Louie's skills span all facets of snowboarding, from jumps to rails and even in the backcountry.

Not only is Louie one of the best when it comes to talent, but he has one of the best personalities and attitudes in the business. Louie always has a smile and a hug ready for friends and fans. He is a picture perfect example of how a pro should be able to maintain a healthy and humble nature as they rise to fame.

Louie joins a talented pool of riders competing to make it onto this years Olympic Halfpipe team for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics in February. The team only has four spaces for male pipe riders and the competition is stacked, but Louie is considered a favorite to make the team. He's got the tricks, he's got the consistency, he's got the style and he's got the personality.