SKATER OF THE MONTH

What was that “one moment” when you knew playing derby was the right thing for you?

Knowing that I passed assessments Bettie 12G said "I'm coming for you" and laid me the F*** out lol!!! After that I knew this was the right decision lol!! I get to hit for fun and take out all my daily frustrations on the track!

What’s something you’ve learned playing derby that has translated into another part of your life?

Collaboration, teamwork means working together and helping each other out the best way you can

What’s something you’ve learned playing derby that has translated into another part of your life?

It's something that I'm still working on but it's teaching me to be more vocal. There's a lot of communication involved like when you're the brace having to tell your teammates where to move and where the jammer is. I've been able to be more communicative at work and in my relationships thanks to derby.

What keeps you motivated to keep playing when things get tough?

I think of why I started and how the feeling of gearing up, lacing my skates and being out there on that track is pure bliss and that on its own makes any worries I have disappear and to get back up on my skates and try again.

What was that “one moment” when you knew playing derby was the right thing for you?

The second I knew it was a thing and available to ME. I got to watch it on TV as a kid, I was so fascinated by it. I grew up skating in my backyard and local rinks with friends but never in a team sport setting.

What about derby caught your attention? When did you first start playing?

I was in a position in my life and I needed an outlet. My divorce was finalized and I really wanted to make some new friends. I had wanted to play roller derby since 2002, but couldn't afford it. So no time better than 2017.

What’s something you’ve learned playing derby that has translated into another part of your life?

I think we live in a world that really wants us to hate our bodies and see ourselves as imperfect. I really struggle with my own body positivity. Derby has taught me that it doesn't matter what I look like or what anyone looks like -- we all have something helpful to offer. Every body can play this sport and that is REALLY amazing. Its wonderful how much more I appreciate my body as something that I can nourish and something that can help me grow instead of something I can hate and criticize.

What’s something you’ve learned playing derby that has translated into another part of your life?

We all have something to offer the world. Resist the urge of judgment cause you might miss out on someone or something grand!

What keeps you motivated to keep playing when things get tough?

Not so much, but I'm inspired by all of my teammates. There is so much talent and drive on this team that I find my self being inspired to try new things because of my teammates

What was that “one moment” when you knew playing derby was the right thing for you?

Immediately after my first scrimmage. I was so lost and unsure but everyone was so encouraging that I knew I was in good hands at VCDD. Not to mention, it was FREAKING EXHILARATING!

​What keeps you motivated to keep playing when things get tough?

Coffee? Lol. The joy of being on skates. Knowing there is always a new day tomorrow

What’s something you’ve learned playing derby that has translated into another part of your life?

I’ve learned in derby that your gonna fall and make mistakes, you just have to get up and keep going. Just like in life, there will always be setbacks but as long as you don’t give up the sun will rise again.