November - 2Nadi4U

An Interview with…2Nadi4U

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

I started playing derby towards the end of 2008 what caught my attention was full contact, fishnets & how punk rock it was. (our A and B team are named after punk rock bands, The Vandals and Battalion of Saints.)

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

On the track and in life you have to Keep on Pushin’. Thankfully in roller derby you can pass the panty to your pivot when it gets too hard as a jammer.

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

I love playing derby, I don’t care what position you put me in- but if I had to list them….Blocker for sure will forever be my favorite. 2nd pivot- as a pivot you still have all the responsibilities of a blocker but you have to focus on your jammer and make sure you are visually & verbally communicating with them at all times in case they need to pass the star or you can make a hole for them. I will list jammer as 3rd because I am not a jammer, I enjoy playing it at practice being sneaky with it with fancy spins but we have great jammers. I will be there if needed for a break but I will always be a blocker 1st🖤

What do you do to get ready for a bout?

Gear check, mainly make sure I’m not forgetting my mouthguard. I just try to have a chill day, have a good breakfast then load the car to be ready for set up time.

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

DO IT! Everyone can benefit from team sports experiences. It really helps you grow as a person in so many aspects and we have so much fun.

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

Everyday I'm hustlin'. I work with a nonprofit that helps farm-working women statewide (Líderes Campesinas) I am a licensed massage therapist, tooth jeweler, and after Covid I got into screen printing.

Do you have a derby mentor?

Honey, Vicious Ticious, Vendetta Vixen, Ally Crash, TK are a few OG’s from VCDD I looked up to all for different reasons. Demandariot is a skater I looked up to outside of VCDD I loved their stage presence, mannerisms and definitely their A game. I am thankful I got to skate against Demandariot, I was terrified at the time but it’s memories I will keep forever.

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

The love of the sport & my teammates support.

What’s your favorite part of skating with VCDD?

The epic s’mores at camping trips (thanks Anti for all the camp trips, love you wifey) VCDD is Family, I love putting in work on the track, you build a special bond when you consistently skate together I Love that. I know VCDD has me on and off the track. I love how fun and supportive we are.

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

If you’ve ever been curious or wanted to join derby DO IT! No matter in what capacity you join this family, I can guarantee you will love it. I’ve been here 14 years and I don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon🖤