June - Heiden Seek

An Interview with...HEIDEN SEEK

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

I watched VCDD (and several other leagues) compete at the 2015 Battle For The Coast tournament at the Ventura Fairgrounds. I followed them on Facebook and waited until their next fresh meat recruitment about 6 months later. The thing that really caught my attention was how much fun they were having.

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

Rising up to the challenge. I know I can push myself so much more than I ever thought.

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

My favorite is blocking. It probably has something to do with having support from your fellow blockers on the track. I don't have a lot of success as a jammer so I don't love it, but I'll never really give up on it either.

What do you do to get ready for a bout?

Get a good night's sleep, listen to music, do my best to stay hydrated.

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

Learning to play derby is uncomfortable so invest in good knee pads and don't expect to be great at it immediately. Be patient and kind to yourself.

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

Working or spending time with my nieces, Daphne and Zoe.

Do you have a derby mentor?

Every single one of my teammates over the last 6 years. They have all brought something different to the track and I appreciate them all.

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

When I'm at practice, I don't think of anything else going on in my life so it's a great escape from all of that. Also, I've made a commitment to my team and to my league and I need to keep showing up and working hard for them as well as myself.

What’s your favorite part of skating with VCDD?

The people! I've made lifelong friends here. We've had so many times out on the track where we drop to the ground with laughter. There is always someone to talk to and we hug it out when we need to. Everything here is a collaborative effort. We also have some amazing sunsets out on our track during the summer.

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

Your derby journey is YOURS, don't compare it to others. Party on.