Matt Sterbenz is one of the best people the ski industry has to offer. There are very few more genuine people who can hold their head up in the ski world, as far as sticking to his word and delivering on promises. And yes, there will be times he comes short, nobody's perfect, but don't think for a SECOND he doesn't put that blame on himself and accepts responsibility, usually when it's not any fault of his own personally.
I still cannot think of any one who works as hands-on with his own company, as far as day-to-day operations, and still manages a pro career on top of it. The man runs himself RAGGED. And no, he is not getting wealthy beyond his dreams (not yet). He's doing it for a sport he wants to help change, and has done so already.
Do you really think the industry would look the same as it does today without the emergence of companies like 4frnt or Armada??? The big corps have taken notice and have driven more product development and money into their freeride programs than ever before. What was once a joke in certain circles in the upper echelon of ski companies is now a reality. Twin-tips, and more importantly YOUTH, are driving the market. Twin-tip sales are up 60-62% in units/dollars this season if you needed a stat.
He has his own pro model because he is one the owners of the company, just like the rest of the team. Steele, Niklas, Eric, Vinnie, are all owners. Remember? Rider-driven?And to doubt his ability is just ignorant and stupid. With the cut back in ski days he's had to make to accommodate 4frnt as a company, I'd say it's pretty amazing he still manages to learn new tricks and terrain, even at the ripe old age of.......I won't say it.
And to all you whiners complaining about how he was a "dick" to you....Grow up. No one can be "on it", ALL of the time. Maybe he was in a fight with his girlfriend, maybe a close friend passed away, maybe he just didn't feel like kissing your ass that day! I generally think most of these complaints are without warrant and just some retard who likes to hear himself type. The point is, we're all human.
Matt and everyone in that company work their ASS off to accommodate all of you. The fact that you scrutinize them so much cracks me up....