August - Kraken Skullz

An Interview with…Kraken Skullz

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

I started this year! I'd only ever seen derby in movies and tv, it seemed really cool but I'd never really thought about looking into it until I found out there was a team locally. I found out about VCDD by chance and immediately knew I needed to join.

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

Pretty much as soon as we started doing contact/jam scenarios in Fresh Meat. Everyone was laughing and having our first small victories, and it was really as much fun as it looked like it would be. It only kept building from there!

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

Putting yourself out there and trying new things. I'm very much a creature of habit, but joining VCDD was a good reminder sometimes you have to shake things up a bit!

Did you play any other sports before derby?

I haven't played any other team sports since I was a kid, but I started climbing a few years ago. There's definitely some similarities in reading a situation and finding a route to the top/through the pack.

Do you have a favorite & a least favorite position? Can you elaborate?

Blocking is currently where I'm most comfortable. I feel like I'm starting to get the hang of it, plus there are the other blockers to help you out. I would definitely still like to keep practicing jamming, but being stuck behind the wall is rough.

What do you do to get ready for a bout?

For my first bout having teammates around to keep nerves in check was a big help!

What advice would you give to someone thinking about playing derby?

If you think you'll like it, you probably will! I started with no skating experience, and only looked up the rules after I decided to join. So no matter where you're starting from you can give it a try!

Finish this sentence: When I’m not playing derby, I am _____.

crafting

Do you have a derby mentor?

Everyone has been so helpful and supportive. From the coaches to the vets there's always someone to give you a tip, answer a question, or explain something again.

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

I know that when I get out on the track I'm going to be glad I did.

What’s your favorite part of skating with VCDD?

I'm still learning, so I really like the feeling of improving. Every new move or technique I start to get is really exciting! I'm looking forward to continuing to work and get better.

Any last bit of advice you'd like to give people??

If you're thinking of getting involved "eventually" now's your chance!