September - Galgo

An Interview with…GALGO

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

The fact that I was willing to try it even though I was scared. Usually if I'm scared I say "no thanks!" but something about derby made me want to try, despite being afraid. I played team sports as a kid, and I feel like my life has been missing that piece of the puzzle for a long time. I wanted to start in 2019 but had to wait until 2021 because of covid.

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

Early in freshmeat I realized falling and failing wasn't scary, in fact I think its kind of fun! Again, my biggest hesitation was fear of pain and injury but I realize now its part of the fun of derby. I fall, I laugh, I get up!

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.

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

You guys know I'm jumping to jam whenever I can.... Something about jamming is so primal and crazy for me. When I'm there all I can think is "FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!" its a wild feeling. I love it. I'm always happy to block though! I have less confidence with blocking, but I love the feeling of being physically with my teammates and being supported by them.

What do you do to get ready for a bout?

Use the bathroom a million times because I'm an anxiety pooper. And find Fatal and ask her to braid my hair.

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

You can have fun even IF you're afraid of being hurt. You can always get hurt! But don't let it stop you! You will thank yourself a million times over and you will be so amazed by the things you can accomplish if you just try. Don't be afraid to try...!

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

At the dog park with Petey or drawing.

Do you have a derby mentor?

My freshmeat class had rotating coaches, so I was taught by many of our experienced players. I want to name drop people on this team who have been amazing mentors to me: Fizz, Anita, Anti, Jen Magic, Heiden, Fatal - you guys give me my wings!!!

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

I want to do well. I want to succeed. Fight! Fight! Fight!!!

What’s your favorite part of skating with VCDD?

The team is so friendly and supportive. People have been nothing but kind to me, and I really appreciate it. Friendship is something thats really important to me, and this is such a great group of people to be friends with. And also, lime green is a very good color for a sports team.

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

Go move your body! Thank it for keeping you alive! Hug your friends! And maybe, only if you want to, come play derby :^))))