Why did you get into Derby?
Like a lot of ladies from my generation of skaters, I was really into the Rollergirls show on cable. My friend joined AARG the year they started in St. Louis, and I was so excited and envious! I’d go to her games, and dream about Columbia getting a league. I was so determined to be a derby skater that I even came up with a name and bought socks for my theme when I was overseas that year! My boyfriend found the posting for the first CoMo practices, and suddenly I was too scared to try. I’ve never been athletic, and I’ve certainly never played a team sport. We watched a practice and he encouraged me, so I bought pads and fell down in my living room, and thought, “okay, I can do this!”
Who do you think has had the most influence on your style of play?
Everyone on my team has. I’ve learned so many great things from my fellow skaters. They’ve forced me to re-think derby over and over again. I’m constantly learning!
What skates and wheels do you use?
I’ve been on the same tired-ass Riedell 265 boots for six years. I have Revenge plates, Luigino bearings, and 97a Jukes.
What was your favorite moment as a CoMo derby dame?
How could I pick one? Going to Brewhaha for the first time. We played hard, and put CoMo on the map!
What is your pre-bout ritual?
Desperately searching for my jersey and boutfit (to wash), and then getting sushi or Vietnamese Pho.
What advice do you have for other skaters?
I always tell the new skaters that if you have the true desire to become a derby skater, you’ll make it, no matter how impossible it feels. If this 30+ year old asthmatic can do it, so can you!
If you could remove one penalty from the game what would it be?
Elbows. I never chicken-wing on purpose, but sometimes they sneak up.
Who would play you in a movie about your life?
Amy Sedaris. I love her. And we make the same facial expressions.
Derby DOB:
January 2007
Drink of choice?
Vodka, club soda, lime.
Bad habits?
Oh lord. Where do we start?
Awards?
I’ve been honored enough to be voted Best Overall Veteran Skater for the last three years by my teammates. I’ve also gotten awards for booty blocking, assists, strategery, and boutfits!
Signature move on the track?
Passive blocking. Not very exciting, I guess, but it does the trick.