Why did you get into Derby?
Like many others, I watched roller girls on A&E religiously. I had somewhat recently become physically active and realized that I actually could perform athletically (something that as a chubby kid I never thought was possible). When watching that show, I thought “I think I can do this.”. It wasn’t too long after that a close friend told me a girl she knew was involved with starting roller derby here in CoMo. I watched 15 minutes of practice and knew I could do it. I started practice the next week.
Who do you think has had the most influence on your style of play?
My jammers influence my play. I will do whatever it takes to get them through the pack. Also, the refs. They cramp my style.
What skates and wheels do you use?
I am not an equipment snob. For the first 3 years of my derby career I bought a new pair of Boxers each year. Boxers are inexpensive and I would blow out the side where the boot connects to the sole. Now I skate on Reidell she devil boots with standard plate and bushings. I prefer Radar standard 97 wheels, but I destroyed 3 of those last season when skating on a particularly dirty skate surface. I use china red bearings. Nothing fancy.
What was your favorite moment as a CoMo derby dame?
There have been a lot of great moments. The best team moment was assisting Adderoller in a nearly 50 point jam at Brewhaha two years ago. Personally it was racking up a lot of laps in skills test. 35 in 5 minutes is my next goal.
What is your pre-bout ritual?
The day of a bout I visualize the first jam and the strategy put forth by our coach. Before skating I block the wall a little to get all the wiggles out.
What advice do you have for other skaters?
We can teach anyone to skate, but what we can’t teach is the desire to skate competitively. You have to want it to succeed. Also, never stop moving your feet.
If you could remove one penalty from the game what would it be?
Forearms. I would get rid of the forearms penalty if the elbow penalty is going to be so encompassing.
Derby DOB:
April 2007
Drink of choice?
Vodka collins or diet dr pepper with cherry syrup—yum, chemicals.
Bad habits?
I eat way too much cheese in one sitting and I tend to be a bit blunt when my opinion is asked. I guess that’s one reason I’m DB.
Awards?
The derby award I’m most proud of is the “Don’t Be Wrong” award. I have also received best make up, don’t take no bull, and most vocal. I’m very appreciative of the MVP awards I get, but in truth I only look good when my team performs well.