SKATER OF THE MONTH

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

My last bit of advice would be to never underestimate the power of perseverance and community. Roller derby isn’t just about physical skills; it’s about pushing through challenges, learning from every experience, and growing alongside others.

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

I'm a fan of puzzles and strategy so I was drawn to the playing-defense-and-offense-at-the-same-time aspect of game play. I also appreciate that there isn't an ideal body type for derby skaters and there are advantages for every body type for every position. I started playing in 2018.

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

Showing up and working hard is one of life's greatest rewards. Don't be afraid to fail, be afraid to not try.

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

DO IT!! Just try! I think something I hear a lot of people say is “I don’t want to get hurt” which is fair, but countering that, you can get hurt doing any sport. Or anything in general! The beautiful thing about derby is you are covered in pads! You start slow and you build so much muscle- not only physically but mentally. You learn resilience. My biggest piece of advice is don’t get discouraged when you fall, because you are always going to get back up. And you are going to fall over and over and over again and you will rise to the occasion every time. And everytime you fall you will learn something! You will learn to be aware of your body and you will learn how to change your mindset! Roller Derby is just beautiful.

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

My first bout 3 years ago and ,recently coming back to practice from my 9 month injury I was struggling with not being where I wanted athletically and my team/pals were my biggest supporters when returning and reminding me why I joined, and love this sport

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

Take smaller steps if you need to and being patient with myself. I've always been one to leap into things because I thought I had to. Derby is really teaching me to slow down to get it right and be confident in my ability to do something.

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

sooooo much! Get back up, don’t give up on yourself, surround yourself with good people, take time for yourself, be patient with yourself and others, don’t leave the pack!!

Do you have a favorite & a least favorite position?
Jammer because it feels like a game of tag on skates, don’t like being pivot since I always forget when I am lol

Do you have a favorite & a least favorite derby position?

Definitely jamming. That's my favorite position. I'm a girl who likes to go fast. Otherwise, I don't have an opinion! I'm still learning, haha.

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

I’m motivated by knowing that there’s really nothing else like derby

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

I started playing on the banked track. So I would say the first time I got hip checked into the rail.

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

Back in 2005 there were some people in my hometown talking about starting a roller derby team. I thought it sounded like so much fun, but I didn't happen. Fast forward to 2015 I saw a flyer for VCDD and became immediately obsessed and decided to join fresh meat.