Replying to Clear line between pro or am?

I know that in skating there are a very clear line wheternot your a pro or a am. Its like, everyone know about Ryan Sheckler and Simon Dumont, obviosly they are pro. But what about some years ago when only people with special interests knew about Tom Wallisch and Mike Mo Capaldi? Mike turned pro last year, but i down know about Tom.

sparknotes: When can you call yourself a pro in skiing?


please dont make this a thread about sponsorships.