What is your derby name?
Dr Slaughter

What is your number? Why did you choose it?
My number is 111 and it just fits my name.

Quote & Why?  
“Never give up, always push yourself and keep trying.”
 I think the worst thing you can do is give up on yourself or think that you can’t achieve things in your life.

Describe what Roller Derby means to you?
Family, Friends and fun. It’s so strange how close you become with your team mates and league members considering half the time you are “hitting” them.

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby?
I joined the Freshmeat intake in July 2015 but had been watching BCR games for a while.

Describe your first Bout?
I don’t remember a lot of what happened on the track, it seemed to go by very fast.  I was excited, nervous, proud and a little scared.  I had a lot of supporters to come and watch me as well; The Trauma Team.

Which team do you play for Twisted Sister/ Iron Maidens?
I play for the Iron Sisters so I play in both teams.

What is your position of choice?
Blocker 

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?
I just try to stay calm.

What if any are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
I wouldn’t call it a challenge but being away from the family with training and games has been a new obstacle.

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?
I was terrified on my first day.  I was the only one who couldn’t skate in my intake, so I used that as my driving force to keep going and really push myself. I would skate every day and practice as much as I could just so I could keep up with everyone else in my intake.  Some days it would really get to me that everything seemed so easy for the other girls, but the coaches were great and always told me not to compare myself to anyone else.

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
Just do it!  My biggest regret is that I didn’t join earlier.  I’m proof that you don’t need to know how to skate to join.

Who are your derby heroes?
All the girls that have helped me get to where I am today are my hero’s.  Porterhouse Skate, Evenger, Malde, and Carnage are a massive reason why I have made it.  They have always pushed me when I needed to be pushed.  Listened, when I’ve needed to vent and tell me I’m doing well when I think I’m not.   

How would you describe your derby playing style?
At the moment, it looks like I’m skating with bricks on my feet.  It looks like I just stomp around the track……..

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
​Practice, practice and practice more.

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why?
All of them, I love being on the track and learning something new every time.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I’m fitter, happier and more outgoing now.

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I’m a fulltime student at E.I.T.   It’s great during the holiday’s because then I skate as much as I like.

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?
​Time management is the key and having a patient family.


Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to? 
Yes, my husband Josh.  He pushed me to get onto derby and listens to me constantly talk derby.  Sometimes he just pretends to listen… Without his constant support, there is no way I could keep playing this amazing crazy sport.   Also, my Derby Wife Hi Jinx who has been with me since the start and is always there for me on and off the track.

What is your derby name?
Sweet-ish Chef. It’s a nod to the Swedish Chef from The Muppets tv show and a spin on my profession as a Pastry Chef. I love the muppets, I’m a total goofball, always making jokes and making people laugh. In a professional kitchen, the Chef is in charge; they call the shots and people listen. When I chose my derby name I set the bar to aspire to command the track in the same way.
 
What is your number? 
212 ... again a cooking reference; water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit (I am American). 

Quote & Why?
“Find something you're passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it.”- Julia Child

Julia Child has been a huge inspiration to me throughout my culinary career and this quote really spoke to me when I discovered roller derby. ​

Describe what Roller Derby means to you?
To me Roller Derby is more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle, a community, a sisterhood. It’s a support system and a global network. The Roller Derby community will accept you no matter who you are, who you love, how big or small you are and what you look like.  Everyone has a place in derby. 
 
Which team do you play for Twisted Sister/Iron Maidens?
I have played for both the Twisted Sister and the Iron Maidens. While I am still a bit out of my depth in the higher level games, I always learn something new and am able to take it back to the Twisted Sisters and really put it into practice. 

What is your position of choice?
I mainly block as I’m fairly sturdy and can give/take a hit. I do love jamming though. I aspire to be a good pivot, but that comes with time and experience. 

What is your skate gear of choice?
It’s a little ridiculous at how many different kinds of gear I’ve gone through in two years. But I think I’ve got it figured out. 
Helmet: S1 Lifer.  No exceptions, the best helmet on the market for our sport. Protect your brain.
Wrists Guards: Triple 8 hired Hands. The kind with the gloves/fingers. I have a tendency to graze my knuckles when I fall. 
Knee pads: 187 Pro Derby. I’ve tried so many different knee pads and these are by far my favorite. A higher profile but I still need that excessive padding for my big falls. 
Skates: Limited Edition Antik AR1, magnesium Avenger plates and Turbo wheels with a mixed duro of 92a and 94a . I lace with extra long waxed hockey laces.
 
Do you have a pre-bout ritual?
I like to give everybody a big hug before we gear up, then I sit down and drink my pre workout drink which I swear gives me superpowers. 

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?
Make a list of things I’d like to do well in a game. I usually associate these things with advice a player on my team has told me previously: 
  
Eve “You should be lower Chef!!!”
Skate “Block!!!!!”
Billy “Pop out”
Malde “Don’t over commit” 
Skate “Move faster” 
Eve “Hit someone”
 
What has been your best derby moment?
Last year we attended a bootcamp in Tauranga.  I played my first ever Advanced Scrimmage which was mostly against Auckland Pirates.  I got goated almost immediately, and since they are amazing blockers I was stuck. BUT, the ever inspiring words of Porterhouse Skate stuck with me and I remember her saying, “I never get got, but if i do i do SOMETHING!” So I turned around and saw the opposing jammer Terror, approaching fast around the track. So I did something; I hit her out hard on the inside line and she called the jam. Didn’t even get my point. Mick Swagger who was bench coaching me gave me a big high 5 and told me I did great. The rest of the scrimmage didn’t seem so scary after that. 
 
Off the track? Marrying my best friend and Teammate Dee Capitator surrounded by our derby family.  

What if any are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
For me, I struggle a bit with operating on a different sleep schedule than most people. I work shift work and sometimes have to split my sleep up so I can attend trainings. Or work a midnight shift before a game. I also struggle with athleticism, I have never been a natural athlete so I really have to work hard to maintain fitness. 
 
Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?
March 2015 intake had a bunch of awesome people in it. The support was immediate and really helped me overcome a lot of challenges you face in the first year. I had never skated before, and almost everyone else in my group had been skating for at least a year. The biggest challenge for me was to not compare myself to others, but instead focus on my own individual progression.  I  would go to windsor park after work every day and skate for at least an hour. I was almost always alone so nobody could watch me stumble and fall.  I could work on the skills I’d learned without worrying about looking silly. And I got better! I won the Rising Star award for my first season!

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
Just give it a go. Don’t wait till you have someone to do it with you, the minute you get there you will have an endless support group to back you up.
 
Who are your derby heroes?
Oh man...i have to choose?! Please bear with me while I fangirl for a minute….
Brawn Swanson for her incredible presence on track and those hip checks! Biceptual and her dreamy backwards blocking, Tui Lyon’s pivoting skills and offense.  Freight Train is my favorite jammer because she is just unstoppable and proved that even girls with curves can be jammers. 
 
What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
Listen to your coaches, work on your fitness off skates, try other forms of skating like skate parks or jam skating. Watch more derby. Read the rules and learn them. 

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
Roller Derby changed my life completely. I started skating with BCR pretty soon after moving to New Zealand. I didn’t know many people and I was amazed at how open and accepting the sport was of LGBT people. I actually met my amazing wife through roller derby. We started out as teammates and friends, which soon blossomed into our incredible romance. All of our friends are derby people, and our life pretty much revolves around work, training, skating, committee work. Derby has a way of taking over your life in the best possible way.
 
Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting? 
Holy hell yes! I’ve lost nearly 15kg in fat since starting derby, I’ve gained muscle and definition. But more importantly my mindset has changed a lot. I’ve become a lot more driven, I don’t give up as easily. 

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life? 
Derby life has a way of injecting itself into your real life. But I think it is important to take getaways and do non derby things with the derby people in your life.  But for me, derby life is my life. There are 3 derby girls living under my roof, there isn’t a room in the house that doesn’t have some kind of skate or pad or gear part in it. Dinner conversation is usually derby related and we don’t go anywhere without our skates. As for work, I’m sure my coworkers are sick to death of hearing me talk about my sport, so I do make a conscious effort to tone it down from time to time.
 
Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
I would like to start by thanking all my Buddies. You have taught me so much and I look up to you all, I could never pick just one person to be my Buddy. 
I want to thank Eve for being there for me when I needed it, for pushing me to get out of a bad situation, and pushing me to stop being a chicken and make a move on Dee. 
I want to thank my incredible wife Dee, for being my best friend, my travel companion, my skatepark crew, and the person who rubs anti flamme on my various bruises after every training and game. I love you ALL THE MUCH. 
And to every single one of my teammates for your never ending support. For always putting your hand up to help with whatever is needed. I love you guys!!!

What is your derby name? please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name.
After returning from an extended leave I decided to drop my derby name and skate under my surname.  I appreciate roller derby’s roots in entertainment but at this point, I just want to play roller derby!

What is your number? Why did you choose it? 
My number is the one piece of my derby persona that I have held onto.  My full number was actually “6 Feet Under”, but today I simply use the number 6.
​
Quote & Why?  
“A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.”   
​It is easy to say “no” to new experiences, to change, to challenges or to things that make you uncomfortable.  But that is where the fun happens and where you see what you are truly capable of.  I am afraid of chainsaws but was a wildland firefighter.  I am afraid of heights but have gone skydiving and bungy jumping and I was terrified to tryout for a competitive roller derby league, but here I am ten years later!  I now say “yes” to anything that scares me.

Describe what Roller Derby means to you?  
I owe so much to roller derby.  Sure, it is a sport, but it is more than that - it challenges me mentally and physically, it has brought the right kind of people into my world and it has also been the source of so much fun and MANY laughs.  Roller derby is my tribe.

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby?  
I started playing roller derby ten years ago and have now played for three leagues in two countries.

Describe your first Bout?  
My first bout was only three months after I strapped on my skates for the first time and I was so nervous I thought I was going to either be sick or pass out.  It went by so fast and by the end of the game I knew I was hooked.

Which team do you play for Twisted Sister/Iron Maidens?
Both.

What is your position of choice?
Blocker or pivot – it depends on the day.
​
What is your skate gear of choice?  
I’m terrible at gear maintenance which is why I absolutely love my Grn Mnstr Moto premium swiss bearings.  They are just as fast as the first day I put them in my wheels without ever cleaning them.  I also love my Bont skates.

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?  
I make sure I have a balanced, light and healthy meal about three hours before game time and I do not allow myself to think about the game until we begin warming up. 

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?  
I start visualising moves and strategies we have been working on so can I am prepared to execute them in the game.

What has been your best derby moment?  
The Iron Maidens played Dunedin last year and at one point I found myself alone on the track because everyone had gone to the penalty box.  I was somehow able to knock the jammer out of bounds and recycle her a third of the way back around the track.  I feel like I got lucky, but maybe it was my visualisation!
 
​How did you get involved with roller derby?  
When I was in grad school I saw a poster for a bout in the student lounge and decided as soon as I graduated I would have to give it a go.  I tried out before ever going to a bout.

What if any are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?  
Roller derby is not just a sport, each league operates like a business.  It requires hours of off-skates contribution from everyone in order to ensure we have coaches at training, bouts are scheduled and staffed, etc.  It can sometimes be challenging to maintain balance in other areas of your life while also taking care of your responsibilities.  But it is all worth it!

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?  
I came from a soccer and lacrosse background and was ecstatic to play a full contact sport, but I was terrible at skating.  I found myself throwing hits on other skaters but also taking myself out.  I remember going early to training to work on jammer starts and tomahawk stops because I could not figure them out.  Over time I improved on those skills and started focusing on more advanced skills.  It seems overwhelming at first, but suddenly you find yourself in the middle of a jam using all of the skills you have learned without thinking about it.

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?  
Just do it!  It isn’t for everyone, but you will never know if it’s for you unless you give it a try.

Who are your derby heroes?  
My favourite skaters are the unsung heroes - skaters who are out on the track, giving it their all, who might not be flashy or the best skaters, but they are solid, reliable, consistent and always get the job done.  

How would you describe your derby playing style?  
That’s a tough one!  I would say persistent, hard hitting with good timing.  I love landing a well-timed hit on a jammer, especially when they think they have cleared the pack.

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?  
You know those drills that are hard and make you uncomfortable because you think you are no good at them – do those drills, over and over.  It’s easy to stick with what comes easy, but you really grow as a skater when you become good at the things you were once terrible at.

What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track?  
I come from the days of old school roller derby so I have had to adjust and work hard to keep up with the sport.  It may sound funny, but when I started, we only skated backwards to stop and we only turned one direction.  To play that way for four years and then have to learn not only how to turn the other direction, but to backwards block was one of the scariest things I have had to do.  Some of my greatest moments have been executing these skills during a game because I never envisioned I would be doing these things!

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why?  
I am the Interleague Liaison for BCR so I line up the schedule for the season.  I am excited and nervous about a number of games this season because I think we will be really challenging ourselves.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?  
Well, for starters I met my husband through roller derby so you could say it has drastically affected how I live my life.

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?  
I no longer want to be the best, I just want to be a better than I was yesterday.  There are more important things like having fun!

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?  
I am the Sustainability Officer at the Hawke’s Bay District Health Board.  I feel like roller derby has given me more experience working with different kinds of people and personalities than any job I have had, so I would say it’s the other way around.

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?  
I would like to thank everyone with BCR for welcoming me with open arms when I transferred from the United States.  Moving to the other side of the world with your partner to a place where you don’t know anyone and don’t have any family is quite intimidating, but the transition has been so much easier having joined up with you.

​What is your derby name and inspiration behind it? 
Agrowe.  It’s a play on my surname Rowe.

What is your number? Why did you choose it?
#50. Because I started playing derby at the age of 50!

Quote & Why?
“It is not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog” 
I chose this because I am only just over 5 foot but pretty tough!

​Describe what Roller Derby means to you?
I love it.  It keeps me fit, agile and I meet lots of great people.

Describe your first Bout?
I was so nervous about people watching, but after the first jam I didn’t even know they were there.  My competitiveness took over.

Which team do you play for Twisted Sisters or Iron Maidens? 
Twisted Sisters.

What is your position of choice? 
I originally thought I wanted to be a Pivot but I have taken a liking to jamming.

​What is your skate gear of choice?
I’m a bit of a gear freak. I do like to mess around with lots of wheels, buying and changing them all the time.   I have changed my plates several times but now have Reactor plates, which I love.  These are on my Riedell Wicked boots which I’ve had from the beginning.

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?
Staying in the moment and not getting stuck worrying about penalties called or making mistakes.  We all do it.

What has been your best derby moment?
My Graduation bout where my team won by 1 point.  The whole game was intense.

What if any are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
The rules.  I still don’t know them all. Getting my core strength stronger, after several abdominal surgeries I’ve had in the past.

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?
Freshmeat was great, I excelled at some things like weaving the cones in 6 seconds & sticky skating.  However plowing was my nemesis which I’m still trying to perfect.

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
Just do it!  It is so much fun, very challenging and great for fitness.  I have never felt stronger, not even in my twenties.

Who are your derby heroes?
Scald Eagle.  I would love to be able to do some of those amazing moves.  And from our league Evenger.  I love how she can hold a jammer all on her own.​

What is your pre-derby sports/skating background?
I played netball & softball in the past and enjoyed them both but derby has me hooked.  I’m totally addicted.

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
Just keep practicing and don’t give up. It’s all about repetitiveness.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I don’t need to force myself to go and do exercise.  I hate exercising for the sake of exercising.

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?
I have more energy, my clothes fit better and I am definitely a stronger person.

​What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I am a pharmacy technician.  I put together the first aid kit for bouts at a discount :)

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?
Sometimes it is a juggling act between derby and family but my family are all supportive as they have seen how good it has been for me.

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to? 
The whole BCR family.  It takes a lot of work to run a league and BCR do it very well!

​“I get knocked down. But I get up again. You’re never going to keep me down. I get knocked down. But I get up again. You're never going to keep me down.” Chumbawamba.
These words reflect the perseverance, dedication and drive of our Feature Skater this month - Tower of Terror.  Reach out to us now if you’re ready to give Derby a try!
 
​
What is your derby name?  
Tower of Terror.
 
Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name:
A close friend came up with the name because I couldn’t think of anything.
 
What is your number?
73
 
Why did you choose it?
It was the year of my hubby’s Valiant Pacer.

​Quote & Why?
I eat the little ones for breakfast – everyone is little to me and I do like to eat!
 
Describe what Roller Derby means to you?
It is the first sport I have ever been passionate about.  I have participated in a huge amount of sports & activities growing up because I come from a very sporty family but I have never liked anything as much as derby.
 
How long have you been involved with Roller Derby?  
I joined the May 2013 fresh meat intake, so just over three years.
 
Describe your first Bout?  
Exhilarating – I even carried on playing after getting injured as I was having so much fun. 

​Which team do you play for Twisted Sisters/Iron Maidens?
I am a Twisted Sister.
 
What is your position of choice?  
I prefer blocking but have been giving jamming a go recently and have found it a lot of fun so I will keep trying that too.
 
What is your skate gear of choice?  
I am still using my trusty sure-grip Rebel skates that I purchased during fresh meat over 3 years ago but I have upgraded my knee pads to TSG, wrist guards to Smith Pro Stabilisers and elbows to 187’s.  It is definitely on my to-do list to look at new skates.
 
Do you have a pre-bout ritual?  
Only to make sure that I have eaten enough so I don’t get hungry when bouting

​What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?  
Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god, oh my god!
 
What has been your best derby moment?  
Doing an amazing sweep of the opposition to let my jammer past and being awarded “Best Blocker” for it during a Sur5al fresh meat bout. 
 
How did you get involved with roller derby?  
I tagged along to watch my sister Blonde Moment train with her team, the Whenua Fatales.
 
What if any are the challenges that comes with being involved in this sport?  
Not losing your mojo when you are injured and not letting it get to you if you don’t master a skill the first time you try.

​Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?  
I ended up doing fresh-meat training twice as I had an ankle injury at a skating boot camp in early 2014 and was off skates for some time.  The second time around was more about regaining fitness and my confidence but I found it great for nailing some of the skills that hadn’t come easy first time around.
 
What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?  
Don’t hesitate – sign up now, you won’t regret it.
 
Who are your derby heroes?  
The uncoordinated, the wheezy and the repeatedly injured!  Every skater that falls into any of those categories at any time yet gets up and keeps on going, they’re my heroes.
 

​How would you describe your derby playing style?  
Haphazard

​What is your pre-derby sports/skating background?  
During my school years I did athletics, long distance running, played hockey and hated it all. My only skating experience was skating up and down my nana’s very short driveway during school holidays.
 
What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?  
Watch your fellow skaters, ask them for tips, go to boot camps, and watch the online videos that are available.  Then practice, practice, practice.
 
What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track? 
There have been lots of great moments but I am hoping the best is yet to come.
 
Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why?  
​No upcoming TS bouts but plenty of Iron Maiden ones that I will be watching and learning from.

​How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life? 
I feel that I participate in life more fully now.  I am not just standing on the sideline wishing I was doing more.  I help coach kid’s roller derby and I am the current Treasurer.  I would never have imagined doing these things before.
 
Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?  
I am fitter and more confident which is fantastic.
 
What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I work as a Client Liaison for Design Builders & have financial/accounts experience so this has helped with my derby committee responsibilities but is a completely separate entity from skating which I think is a good thing.
 
How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?  
A good part of my life is taken up with derby commitments but when I have needed to step back & concentrate on other things, my derby team mates have stepped up to take some of the load from me.  I think the main thing is to never be afraid to ask for help.
 
Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to? 
​My wonderful husband Eddy who always acts like I am the best skater on the track.

​What is your derby name? Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name. 
My name is Daisy Devil Spawn, but my league mates call me Spawn.  When I was trying to come up with a name I had heaps of random name components on my fridge which I would play around with, but in the end I went with the nickname my high school bio teacher gave me- Devil Spawn (honestly, you go to one mufti day dressed like a gothic and it's all over!)
​
What is your number? Why did you choose it? 
My number is 214, which is my wedding anniversary, 21st of April. It helps me remember the day and month but I never remember the year.

​Quote & Why?  
"Everything is awesome" the Lego movie.  Because it is!

Describe what Roller Derby means to you? 
Roller derby to me is a way to let loose the pressures of home and work life.  Dealing with the public, and kids, can sometimes drive one a bit cray cray so it's nice to have an outlet where I can work off steam in a safe environment.  It's much more fun than joining a gym.  I also consider my league mates my family. 
​
How long have you been involved with Roller Derby? 
I started around 3 years ago but not long after I became a rocker (aka bouting player) I found I was pregnant so my derby career went on hold for a year.  I've been back in my skates for a year and a half now.

Describe your first Bout? 
In a way there are two firsts, your cherry popper, which is a bout where the teams are made up from your own league and then a "proper" bout against another league.  My first "proper" bout against another team is a bit of a blur to be honest.  I do remember that us newer skaters would be able to have a turn at jamming in the second half if we had a comfortable lead in the first half, which we did.  I had a go, and bam, penalty straight away!

Which team do you play for Twisted Sisters/Iron Maidens?
I am a newly named "Iron Sister" which means I play for both, so double the game time.

​What is your position of choice?  
I want to be an all rounder, so I try to give everything a go. Jamming is super fun, but really hard work, the target is firmly in place on your back!  Pivoting is kind of like part back up jammer and part leader of the pack.  Less experienced players will look to you for guidance, so it's a great challenge!

What is your skate gear of choice?
I'm making it up as I go along.  My first skates were really entry level stuff Suregrip GT-50s.  They're not high quality but were my safe place for a long time.  My new skates are taking some getting used to, but they're a lot lighter than my first pair.  My safety pads are more tape than fabric these days.

Do you have a pre-bout ritual? 
Panic! I try not to get to wound up, and I make sure I'm wearing my lucky superman undies.

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?  
Do I need to go to the toilet?  Yes, I need to go to the toilet.

What has been your best derby moment?  
My best moment is 100% the moment in my cherry popper bout where I was jamming and got hit off the track by an opposing blocker. I slid right off the track, along the ground and under the merch table, a good 10 metres away.  I got up and got right back on the track and kept on going.

How did you get involved with roller derby? 
I was on an unrelated committee with a league member, and she was constantly telling me I should give it a go.  Eventually I did, and loved it.  I constantly bemoan the fact it took me so long.  If I had started the first time she mentioned it to me, I'd be a pro by now!

What if any are the challenges that comes with being involved in this sport? 
Derby does take over your life, whether it's training twice a week, heading away for bouts or doing committee work.  It's definitely a labour of love, and one we all gladly take on. ​

Can you talk about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby? 
I kind of had 2 first years, for both it was just practice, practice, practice.  Some skills come really easy, but some take forever to get. Everyone learns differently so you just have to persevere. I'm known for asking endless questions, but if I don't understand something then I want to figure it out!  These days YouTube is a great help as well.

​What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby? 
Don't be afraid to give it a go. A lot of people think their stature is too big or too small but, the reality is that a good derby team has a mix of all sizes.  We all have our advantages and disadvantages. The other thing that can put people off is the thought of hitting and being hit.  You are taught everything you need to know to both hit and be hit safely.  And, if it's really not working out then reffing is always an option.  You get the joy of being on skates but without the hitting.

Who are your derby heroes?  
Porterhouse Skate of course, and also E Venger.  We were in the same freshmeat intake and I swear to god she's a machine.  Her skill in roller derby is on par with some of the most experienced players in our league, who have been on skates for twice as long.

​How would you describe your derby playing style? 
I am small statured and my key strategy is to get even lower. If I'm jamming and an opposing blocker is swooping in to hit me I like to get really low and they tend to go right over me and miss!  Other than that I'm just working on being light on my feet with a solid stance.  One thing you learn in derby is that you need to be adaptable.

What is your pre-derby sports/skating background?  
Literally nothing!  I had a bit of a play around on inline skates in my early teen years and that's it. 
​
What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills? 
Ask lots of questions, watch lots of games.  Practice, practice, practice, and don't be afraid to give it a go. 

​What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track? 
I love it when the strategy we learn at training comes together in a game.  One of our games last year I was jamming but my team could only field a few blockers, so I assisted my team in blocking the opposing jammer before I battled my way through the opposing blockers.  Effectively meaning I acted as a blocker before switching back to my role as jammer.  I also feel like a super hero when I attempt offence to help our jammer through.  It often doesn't work, so when it does I'm always beyond excited.

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why? 
I'm excited for all my bouts this year.  If I'm playing as a Twisted Sister it means I get to have a go at being more of a leader.  But if I'm playing as an Iron Maiden it means I get guidance from the experienced skaters in my league.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life? 
My league mates are my family.  If I have a problem I can go to any of them, and I hope they know I'm there for them too.  When I had my baby a few years ago a lot of the ladies cooked for my family covering a few weeks.  It was a godsend when dealing with a baby!  Since then I have returned the favour to other league mates who have had babies. ​

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting? 
Fitness is the most obvious one that comes to mind.  I've never been a big one for exercising but in derby you do need to be fit. Endurance is an essential part of roller derby. I also like to think I'm slightly less self centred lol.

​What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?  
I'm a librarian, so not a huge amount.  If anything the stationary aspects of my job make it harder!

​How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?  
It can be hard, but it's like everything else.  If I wasn't playing derby then I can only assume that there would be something else taking up my time.  I love derby, so I make as much time for it as I can, and as my husband allows.
​
Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?  
Our coaches.  They don't only train us twice a week but also put in the hours outside of derby coming up with plans and strategy.  Without them, we would be bumbling around like newborn giraffes on skates!  My long suffering husband, who makes it possible for me to dedicate my time to derby.

What is your derby name?  
My name is Damage Patch Kid.  Everyone who knows me knows what a big kid I am so it’s quite fitting.  Also, being a child from the 80’s meant that Cabbage Patch Kid dolls were a big part of my childhood.

What is your number? Why did you choose it?  
I’m number 22. It's been a favourite of mine for many years now.  It follows me around and I see it where ever I go.

Quote & Why?
“All I want for Christmas is your two front teeth”.  It ties in with the kid theme of my derby name.

Describe what Roller Derby means to you?  
It means fun, fitness, laughter and friendship.  Starting Roller Derby has been really empowering for me.  It's been 'Me' time and was the first thing I did for myself after I had my 2 kids.

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby?
In August it’ll be three years since I started the Roadies course.  That time has absolutely flown by!  You know what they say…. Time flies when you’re having fun.

Describe your first Bout?  
​The first time I played was in an inter-league scrimmage BCR held with players from other leagues.  All the teams got mixed up and I played in a team against Princess Slayer, one of New Zealand’s best.  I took a lot of big hits, attempted a few and had an absolute ball.  I tried my hardest and it gave me confidence moving forward that if I could play against Princess Slayer and not get completely smashed then I might actually be ok.  The first time playing with The BCR was very exciting and it was a proud moment putting on the uniform for the first time.

Which team do you play for Twisted Sister/Iron Maidens?
I am an Iron Sister which means I’m an A/B player, getting to play in both teams.  I’m really lucky to have the extra game time.  I get to play with the Iron Maidens, learn from them and then play with the Twisties where I can use what I’ve learnt and take on more of a leadership role.  I get to jam more with the Twisties too, which I love.  It’s a good balance.

What is your skate gear of choice?  
​My skates are Riedell Wickeds.  They lace to the toes which is great because I’ve got really wide feet.  My wheels are Atom Jukes (93s & 95s) and my pads are Killer 187’s.  I’d love to upgrade my skates some time when money allows.  Other than my wheels, I’m still using all the same gear I bought when I was doing fresh meat. 

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?
I tend to get ready for a game the night before, that way when I wake up I know I'm good to go and can try to have a chilled out morning. 
I check everything's alright with my skates and get my uniform, snacks and drinks ready.  I do have a major sweet tooth so the thing that has become a bit of a ritual/habit on game day is eating lollies.  In fact, we all love The Natural Confectionary Company Snakes so they are in our kit most games (Cough cough.... Sponsor ????).  We do have our team ritual of boosting each other up by punching each other in the arms right before we skate out and of course we do our, "Gimme a B C R" chant before and after the game.

What has been your best derby moment? 
​There have been lots of great derby moments.  I’ve been given MVP 3 times and was voted Miss Reckon (Miss Up and Comer) by the league going in to the 2015 season which meant a lot to me.  Being involved with the Guns n Roses Junior Derby has been really rewarding.  Watching the kids skate out as our half time entertainment a few months back was a very proud moment for me, as a coach and as a Mother (my 8 year old daughter, Red Rascal is in GnRs).

How did you get involved with roller derby? 
My first introduction to roller derby (other than watching the movie ‘Whip it’) was through the casual skate nights that BCR used to host when we were lucky to have the warehouse. I skated a lot as a child and my love of skating was re-ignited the first time I went along.  I met Evenger and Manek that first night and saw how amazing they were on their skates and was lucky to get some handy tips from them.  I had so much fun I signed up for the fresh meat course the next day!  A few weeks after I signed up, I went along to watch The Bay City Rollers play a 50's themed game at Pettigrew Green Arena and sat there thinking, what have I got myself into?  But at the same time was really excited about what was to come.

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby? 
​ I loved doing the fresh meat course!  We had a great group of skaters and I couldn’t wait to get to training each week.  We trained up at the stinking hot  warehouse, went along to scrimmages at Rockers trainings and NSO’d at games whenever we could.  It was very exciting moving up to Rockers after the Roadies course and to be learning all the different parts of roller derby…. the strategies, skills and team work as well as getting to know all the skaters I’d spent a while admiring.  It was a year full of learning that’s for sure. I was well and truly bitten by the derby bug.

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby? 
We all have different reasons for joining derby, what ever that reason, JUST DO IT! Whether you want to skate, ref, nso or be involved in another way, there really is a place for everyone at BCR. 

Who are your derby heroes? 
It's going to sound really cheesy but my biggest heroes are those close to home who I skate with every week. Everyone has their own skating style and their own way of doing things so I am constantly learning and doing different things depending on who I'm skating with.  Eve in particular has been a big hero of mine ever since that first night at casual skating as she is such a wealth of knowledge when it comes to all things derby. Her skating skills are really impressive.  She's definitely one of those players that you want to skate with rather than against because you really don't want to be on the receiving end of one of her hits!  Billy and Bambi are right up there too with their amazingness, along with Dee, Skate, Angel and Kitty.  I could keep going… would it be weird if I listed everyone in my team?

What is your pre-derby sports/skating background? 
When I was little my parents played rugby at Whitmore Park and my Uncle lived across the road so I spent many hours a week skating at the rink there and I was always off skating around the block with my friends and cousins.  I have a story book from my childhood that's full of pictures and stories about me roller skating.  I love it.  I must’ve been hard back then though because I don’t ever remember any of us wearing helmets or pads.  I was pretty sporty as a child but I haven’t played a team sport since high school.

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why? 
​I love playing away games with BCR.  Travelling is always really fun and I have never laughed so much as on our road trips.  We’ve got a game in the South Island coming up that I’m really looking forward to as well as all the Top 10 games.

​How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life? 
Roller Derby been a really positive thing for my girls and I.  It's introduced and encouraged skating, sports and exercise to my children as through their involvement.  They want to skate with me as much as possible so it’s helping us all to get out and be physical and healthy.  I do coaching for the juniors in Guns and Roses which my 8 year old daughter does and Miss 5 is counting down the days till she's old enough to join.  Derby has taken over my family.

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life? 
​Hmmm. That’s a tricky one.  Balance between derby and real life comes and goes depending on what’s happening.  I think all you can do is go with the flow and do your best.  There are times when you can put your heart and soul into everything derby but then there are times when you can’t even make it to training because your real life is taking over.  It ebbs and flows, you’ve just got to roll with it.

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to? 
​Thank you to my amazing coaches, team mates, refs and Gun’s n Roses crew.  They teach me, put up with me when I get confused, explain things to me and deal with my back blocks, shoulder/bum hits and never ending penalties.  BCR is a big, hilarious, beautiful, loving family that I love being a part of.  I have to say a big thank you to Daniel who comes to my games, encourages me and looks after my kids so I can go to training.  Plus he is a great support when I get down on myself and in a bad derby funk.  An extra special thank you  to my two little rascals Freya and Amina who have spent many hours entertaining themselves at my trainings and share me when I go away for our weekend games, plus all the love, cheers and encouragement when I'm playing. 

Quote & Why? 
That’s just plain Nas Tee! I choose this as my quote for no other reason than I could include my derby name in it. With saying that, I don’t think I’m overly nasty by nature.
 
Describe what Roller Derby means to you? 
Big question. To start with derby was a bucket list item. After a while it became so much more.  I have never been a sporty person and hadn’t played a team sport since I was in my late teens. Derby became more than a fun sport, it became a big part of me. 
 
How long have you been involved with Roller Derby and BCR?
I started the Roadies (freshmeat course in other leagues) in July 2011 so I am heading into my sixth year.​

​How did you get involved with roller derby?
There was a reporter doing a blog in the local Napier paper, writing a diary each week about the course and how it was challenging her in so many different ways. I followed her journey for a few weeks and decided I would give it a go and haven’t looked back. 
 
What is/are your role/s within the league?
What hasn’t been my role should be the question! My first step into the minefield of roller derby was Head of Events. Wow, what a learning curve that was. I managed to pull off a successful bout at Pettigrew Green Arena, Night of the Skating Dead. A huge feat that 600 came to get a taste of derby. I spent a year as Chair of the league, which was very interesting and again challenging. Organising, overseeing and steering a league of 60 odd woman is like nothing I had ever experienced but I lived and so did the league. The other roles I undertook were Head of Recruitment for a couple of terms, a stint at Head of Funship and now I’m into my second term of nurturing our BCR babies as Head of Roadies. I am also trying to turn my hand at reffing, I’ll keep you posted on that one!

​How did you transition into your support role/s? 
There can be a slight push into position’s (just like on the track) at times because at the end of the day the role needs to be filled and you just need to get on with it. I never really recognised myself as an overly strong person although I see myself as fairly confident but I’d like to think I’m not cocky with it. What I have discovered is that these roles have made me stronger in character and given me a better understanding of the many diverse personalities that are attracted to derby. 
 
Why did you hang up your skates? 
In my opinion I have figuratively hung up my skates even though I’m still in them. I was given the option of either continuing to play and end up having my spine fused and not being able to skate at all or back off the contact (get it). So I took the option of not playing. This has given me the all clear, well for now at least.

​Was it difficult to hang up your skates? 
Yes, extremely difficult!  I need my spine to get me through a few more years so I had to suck it up and get over it. Physically I have accepted this decision as I’m not playing but emotionally and others will tell you that it’s hard watching as I wish I was out there with my team buddies pumped full of adrenaline. 
 
Do you travel with the team (describe these trips)? 
“What goes on tour stays on tour” such a wise quote whoever came up with that. I have been on some amazing road trips with BCR and laughter and fun is always top of the list. I thought I knew a fair bit about  life being 40 plus but I can tell you you're never too old to learn! In my case too “In sickness and in health” is another quote I’ve had to rely on a couple of times. I’ve been carried and wheeled around by my teammates and it always hasn’t been on the track. And for that support I’m truly grateful.

What has been your best derby moment? 
I have enjoyed so many games, just playing was great to me. Being a part of a team, and getting out of my comfort zone.
My last game I played for BCR was memorable and fun. I was never that amazing player on the track and I had no illusions of grandeur. However, the last jam I was told I was jamming. What? Nas Tee don’t jam?!  I had no idea what I was doing, but I managed to get lead and even scored points!  I laughed so much skating around the track I really didn’t want the game to end because I knew it would be my last.
 
What if any are the challenges that comes with being involved in this sport? 
Getting out there and playing is a challenge in itself, being in the right place at the right time on the track again can be a challenge. I don’t have much of a sporting or fitness background so it was a hard work to get out there and keep upright. There were times I was ready to chuck it in but I pushed through those barriers and made it. Unfortunately with my spine the way it is I always copped extra knocks and a couple of cracked ribs, the cracked tailbone made it pretty challenging to get through Roadies, however I kept going.

What advice do you have for those who interested in joining the league?
Get in there give it a go, it's great for your fitness it, helps pop your personal bubble issues! Derby is an amazing sport where you will meet some really amazing women. I would say some of the girls I have met through derby will be my friends for life.
 
Who are your derby heroes? 
I know a lot of the girls are in awe of all the great players, especially players from the USA. For me anyone who gives it a go and gets out on the track is my hero. You don’t have to be great you just have to play with heart. I know not everyone agrees with my mantra. I do get a thrill from winning a game but to be honest that’s not why I played. I won in so many other ways even if the scoreboard was not in our favour.
 
What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments?
Playing haha! No, in all seriousness being a part of so many games and playing in two Derby Royale tournaments.

​How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I think it has given me a more of a can do attitude; also it has expanded my multitasking skills. My driving has become a bit more erratic. I can remember when I was in Roadies we used to talk about how we started to drive as if we were on the track, don’t tell my hubby that!
 
Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?
Physically, yes I’m more broken - ha! I was so much fitter than I had ever been for a long time. If I am honest my fitness has declined since I stopped playing. Overall, I don’t think I’ve changed within myself as such, my personality traits are still there, maybe my sarcasm is slightly stronger?  I’m essentially still Tanya with a pseudonym.  
 
What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I’m Senior Support running a vocational service for people with intellectual disabilities. Most days I’m logistically trying to support and organise 40 plus service users and 6 staff to have a productive, beneficial, fun day. That’s a derby event scenario right there!
I think my day job helps me deal with the many personalities and not to stress too much. A league at times can be pretty stressful place. There are success stories, conflicts of interest, personality clashes wherever you work, and it helps you deal with such things that may arise in a club, especially in a league that’s 98% female. Conversely, I think that being a member of BCR has contributed to how I go about my job too. 

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?
It isn’t easy at times, most of the members would agree and it is hard to say NO because we don’t want to let others down and we want a great league. I did struggle with it for a while, but found if I put 100% effort into both my real life on a non-derby day and 100% to derby when I could, it panned out. I learnt that the nights I had committee work to do this would happen when hubby was at work and the kids were in bed. Didn’t always happen like that but I did try!
 
Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
To be fair my list would be long and I couldn’t handle it if I left a special person out who had helped me out along my BCR journey. Mainly the girls who I’m really close to they know who they are :)  You’re the ones who had my back, pushed me through and messaged me endlessly. Also, the ones who helped my pop my hug bubble are pretty special.  
​Then there are my little ones too…
The support has been from nearly everyone in the league and not forgetting some that were there with me in the beginning but have now moved on to different things.
I’ve had great family support even though I may have pushed them over the edge from time to time with my derby consumption.

What is your derby name? Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name.
Dee Capitator.  There is no special story – I thought it sounded tough and cool and my number is 99.

Quote & Why?
‘Work until your idols become your rivals’ – Something about this resonates and really motivates me;  I’m a perfectionist, I have high expectations of myself and I am prepared to do whatever it takes to be the best I can be.

​Describe what Roller Derby means to you.
Roller Derby is my life.  I love both the physical and mental parts of the game.  I love how it constantly challenges me.  My team mates are my family, the friendships made along the way will be treasured forever and, the confidence I’ve gained is incredible

.Can you talk a bit about your first year and how you learned to play roller derby?
I began my freshmeat course in 2012 and started bouting early 2013.  
It was full on! I’ve never worked so hard for something in my life!   We had a great range of coaches, really supportive who pushed us to our limits.

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
Do it!  Don’t put it off any longer and be prepared to work your butt off!

Describe your first Bout.
That first bout was a blur - so much mayhem and confusion in those first few games!  But the minute the first whistle blew, I knew derby was for me.

Tell us about your team…
I play for the Iron Maidens. 
Early in the 2014 season I was injured, which put me off skates for several months, it was the most miserable 4 months of my life, but it gave me time to think and reassess my goals. I decided then I would work my butt off to be the best derby player I could be.  After a couple of intense months sweating away in the gym & getting back up to speed on the track, I feel like I really earned my place in the Iron Maidens.  It’s a constant challenge to keep up with the competitive level of this team so the journey is ongoing, there is a lot of pressure to stay on top of the game which I think both I and my fellow Iron Maidens really thrive on. Our competitors keep getting better, but so do we. 

What is your position of choice?
I’m a jammer. I love the rush of breaking out from the pack - there is no better feeling!
It comes with its challenges, I don’t have the typical jammer physique, I’m definitely not the fastest skater out there, but I think I bring a lot to this role, strength, smarts & a lot of determination. I love that our jammer rotation is so diverse, it really keeps our opposition on their toestops.

What is your skate gear of choice?
My skates are my babies, I skate on Antik AR1’s with Magnesium Avenger plates, I’ve recently switched to super soft cushions, I like a lot of movement in my trucks. I love my Superball Gumball toestops, I can Toe-stop-pop for days on these babies. Wheels, I am loyal to my Rollerbones Turbos, I skate these derby and they treat me pretty well at the bowl as well.  I swear by my Smith Scabs Kneepads and, of course, my S1 Lifer helmet.

What is your pre-bout ritual?
I try to stay relaxed, chill at home, cook a delicious breakfast, do some housework.  If we are travelling, I try to get some quiet time in the van.  Once we hit the venue, I like to make sure my team mates are feeling pumped for the game, check out the floor, check over my gear.
Stay Calm, No Stress.

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?
I like to visualise being out on the track, some successful jukes and jumps, working together with my team.  I go over the signals and calls we use. Remind myself to stash the star and to check in with my bench.

What has been your best derby moment?
The whole experience to date has been something I will remember fondly forever, there are no massive stand out moments, but lots of little things that make me smile; our team really coming together and winning some important games, nailing hockey stops, meeting my derby hero Scald Eagle, managing to get thru a particularly strong wall, getting named MVP after some really tough games, oh and all the road trip fun.

How did you get involved with roller derby?
Some kind stranger dropped off flyers at my work one day and I was intrigued, but too shy inquire further.  Fast forward a year I’m living in a flat with Bambi, as a flat we headed out to her big game to support, I was hooked! Signed up & started skating a month later.  

Describe the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
Physically it’s been a huge challenge; a lot of hours in the gym, time off for injuries along the way, but it’s all totally worth it.  I’ve always been a pretty shy and quiet person and to start with it was challenging for me in this sport full of amazing strong outspoken women to have a voice, but I’ve grown and come out of my shell a lot.

Who are your derby heroes?
Scald Eagle is my hero, She has style & grace, and she’s so strong and agile, all the things I want to be one day!  I also love Freight Train because she is a powerhouse, Stef Mainey for her smarts and body control and Tui Lyon for her sweet style on and off the track.

How would you describe your derby playing style?
Gracefully aggressive.  I like to use my strength advantage to push thru when jamming and hold tight when blocking.  I also like to use a lot of spins, mohawks and lots of toe stop work.

​What is your pre-derby sports/skating background?
I played soccer and used to row when I was in high school, but not a lot else since then other than hitting the gym sporadically.

​What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
Watch all of the derby you can, cross train, get down to the skate park and attend all the boot camps!

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why?
I’m excited for the Iron Maidens upcoming Top 10 tournament games, it’s exciting to be involved in a structured competition and to see how we stack up against the best in NZ. 

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I work by day as a chef, it has been challenging as it’s a pretty full on physical job at times, and when you turn up to a shift in a moonboot, things can get pretty interesting.  I also work freelance as a graphic and web designer which plays a huge part in my roller derby life, my contribution to the Bay City Rollers is any and all of our design needs.  I’ve been lucky enough to be involved in keeping our website looking super sweet and up to date, 2 of our bi-annual calendar fundraisers and our Guns & Roses and Twisted Sisters logo designs, amongst other things.

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?
Derby is my real life, it’s all derby all the time.

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
I am so happy that this crazy sport has led me to Katie, words cannot express how thankful I am that the universe sent you to me.  And Lilian, my littlest fan, it’s always easier on the track knowing you are out there cheering me on.

What is your derby name?
SinOmen Donut.

Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name.
My childhood nickname from my father was, Donut. Somebody already had 'Drunken Donut', so I asked friends to help; among the suggestions, this one really appealed.

Quote & Why?
"I was the one momma warned you about"
Donuts may be sweet, but this one may have a dark side - I’ll let you be the judge of why.

How did you become an NSO for BCR?
I was approached by the previous Head NSO to take over the role from her, so with some support, here I am.

Why did you hang up your skates?
I found that I was struggling to commit to the extra fitness training needed to be able to pass the Roadies Course, although I’d participated in several courses and still wanted to be a part of Roller Derby.  By switching my focus to NSO-ing it kept me involved.  For a time I felt I had let myself down when I took my skates off, I really wanted to see if I could actually get to the bouting stage, for me it would have been a great achievement, especially as I don’t see myself as really sporty or sport orientated.

Are you still working towards bouting?
I don't think so and my body thanks me for that…but jumping while on skates was something that I really didn't think I could do, yet when you do it, it’s awesome.

Do you travel with the team?
Yes I do. I am lucky enough to be able to travel away sometimes with the team as a visiting NSO. The trips are always a lot of fun, improve my NSO-ing skills and are great bonding experiences with the other BCR members.  It gives league members the opportunity to share what they do away from derby, and strengthens relationships. 

What would you say was your best derby moment?
For me derby is an awesome sport to be part of with ‘best moments’ becoming all of the small things creating the whole ‘best moment’ experience.  Since derby entered my life, I am more confident in myself and my abilities.
 
What are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
As a skater, trying to avoid injury.  As an NSO, trying not to get in the way and doing your job to the best of your ability.  Committing to the league when you have work and family commitments is also a challenge that all league members juggle.  I am lucky as I have the support of my family to be involved.

What advice do you have for those interested in joining the league?
What have you got to lose?  Even if you don't think you can skate, you will be surprised at what your body can do. At the very least you will gain friendships and comradeship in a fun sport.  If, like me, you don’t make it through on skates, there is so much you can do off skates to remain part of the league.  Just do it.
 
Who are your derby heroes?
Dee Capitator is definitely my hero.  She is an amazing Blocker and not your typical Jammer, but she powers through those blocker walls time and time again with ease.

What is your day job – does it help in your derby life?
Customer Service at a Cleaning Supplies company and I suppose it has helped me to be able to communicate efficiently within the league and the public, which is a huge part of NSO-ing and being an effective league member.
 
Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
Yes. My first two Roadie's coaches. Annie Von Carnage for support when I was questioning why I was there and, Kill Billy for pushing me beyond my perceived limits and helping me to find my potential.

Describe what Roller Derby means to you? 
Fun, fitness, family and sharing successes.

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby? 
I think I am going into my fourth year.
​
Describe your first Bout? 
Hahaha - My grad bout was a blast even though I was expelled for too many penalties and my first ever game against another team was a shocker.  It was in Whakatane and I played like ‘crap’.  Little did I know that I had a broken ankle at the time.  My game could only improve from there.

Which team do you play for Twisted Sister/Iron Maidens? 
I play for both teams at BCR.​ 
Playing for Twisted Sisters is great, due to it being a 'development' team and I get to try out new skills and strategies with players at the same level.

Sensational Scottish sales rep and problem solver by day, our featured skater, Lone Wolf strapped on eight wheels with no prior experience skating whatsoever to become a versatile and valuable MVP member of the Bay City Rollers.  So if you've ever considered derby as a sport, our tenacious Wolfie is sure to inspire. Often seen smiling her wolffish grin, don't let her devilish number scare you...she's a supportive den mother and Head Coach to our upcoming junior league and part of our pack the Guns & Roses.

What is your derby name? Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name.
LONE WOLF.  I love wolves; I used to own a wolf hybrid, Lone Wolf McQuade was Chuck Norris, who is obviously awesome, leaving bodies strewn everywhere in his wake, while doing good.  So I wanted to be Chick Norris!  Also, I love the saying 'The lone wolf travels fastest' and being single works for me.

What is your number? Why did you choose it?
My number is 666 –  I have this tattooed on my head…

Quote & Why?
'My kind of trouble doesn’t take a vacation' – this is a Chuck Norris Lone Wolf quote, as I’m ALWAYS in a wee bit of trouble somewhere along the way.

Describe what Roller Derby means to you?
My derby friends are my wee extended family.  It’s also an awesome way to keep fit, de-stress and gives me a pretty good social life!

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby?
3 years (or is it 4, I can’t remember…. old age!)

Describe your first Bout?
Against Swampies – My legs wouldn’t stop shaking and it was all a bit of a blur, but I got through it and never looked back (except to see where the jammer was, of course).

Which team do you play for Twisted Sisters or Iron Maidens?
At the moment I play for both, which is awesome as I get double the track time and double the game experience!

What is your position of choice? 
I like to block, but have been known to jam occasionally and often wear the pivot hat, but have to learn to talk more!

What is your skate gear of choice?
I’m loving my smith scabs knee pads as I don’t feel a thing when I fall, although I do find them a wee bit bulky.  I also love my rollerbones turbo wheels.

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?
Yes, taping… Being one of the older skaters I have to pay extra care in looking after my old worn out knees and shoulders!
 
What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?
We’ve got this!
 
What has been your best derby moment?
Our acoustic April bouts where I took out my first ever MVP against Whenua Fatales one weekend and Sulphur City the next...Still buzzing about that!

How did you get involved with roller derby?
I was looking for a fun alternative sport to get fit and lose a bit of lard.

What if any are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
You have to get tough and not take anything personally.  You will take some hard knocks from other players, but don’t get all bent out of shape about it as it’s nothing personal, it’s just the sport!

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?
Freshmeat was scary!  Very, very hard work and also, often a feeling of total inadequacy when you saw the rockers fancy footwork.  There were a lot of times when I thought, is all the pain worth it as I’ll never be as good as them.  But look, I am a rocker now, so if I can do it anyone can!

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
Give it your all.  Perseverance and a positive mental attitude is key.  You can do it, and the more effort you put in, the sooner you will become awesome and get the most out of the sport.  Study lots of games and get involved with all the jobs within bouts and the league, this will help immensely with learning the rules. 

Who are your derby heroes?
Everyone in our league is a hero to me, past and present!  They all have their own skill set and have helped me through the years.

How would you describe your derby playing style?
My playing style is juggernaut, if it's my opposition and it's moving, then hit it!  Fun times.

What is your pre-derby sports/skating background?
I had absolutely no skating experience before derby whatsoever.

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
Listen to your coaches, watch lots of games and practice lots.  If at first you don’t succeed try, try again!

What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track?
There are so many!  Every time I master something that I thought I would never manage to do I tick it off and carry on to the next challenge to master.

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why?
Every bout is exciting!  I’ve been lucky enough to have been playing almost every weekend for a few weeks now.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
It’s made me stronger, fitter and also has made me lots of lifetime friendships.

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?
I guess I’ve become more confident and outgoing.

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I am an account manager (sales rep that fixes people’s problems), but honestly my job is totally separate from derby.

What motivates you?
The will to better myself. Every day is a learning day and I still have so much to learn and improve on in derby, which I know I can do.  I’ve just got to keep on pushing myself and break any boundaries I might have.

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your 'real' life?
I have a pretty good derby/life balance. Everyone has a life outside derby so I make sure I have plenty of time for my other interests and non-derby friends too.  It can be a wee bit of a juggling act, but it keeps life interesting with no time to get bored.

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
My two special derby people Priti Manek and NasTee Girl – if it wasn’t for them I don’t know what I’d do!  They are the awesomest wifies I could ever ask for.

What is your derby name? Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name Porterhouse Skate?
In the very beginning, I was Scarlett Slaughter but I felt like the Ann Smith of derby world, you know something red and something tough.  One day a non-derby friend called me Porterhouse Skate as a joke and I cracked up.  Skate and steak are acronyms, my surname is Porter, being raised a vegetarian with powerhouse connotations it was full of contradictions (perfect). I thought this is clever and funny and from that day forward, I was Skate.

What is your number? Why did you choose it? 
37.  They told me to pick a number that was important to me.  I must have been having a mid-life crisis so I picked my age.  My intention was to change it every year to reflect my age until I realised how ingrained the dreaded ‘pink 37’ ref call is.  I’ll  be forever 39 though!

What has been your best derby moments?  
Winning games.   Having enough skaters for one team and then having enough skaters for two teams.  Becoming an incorporated society.   Being featured in a TV series.  Receiving approved funding grants.  Having Windsor Park resurfaced.  Sitting in the van with the girls laughing for hours.   New Zealand having a national body.  Competing in Derby Royale, twice.  Mastering a hard skating skill that I thought maybe I’d never.  Watching derby friends compete in world cup. Starting the junior division, Guns and Roses.  Skating out to a 900 audience.  Going to bootcamps, with amazing coaches.  Watching the new girls become better and better and then becoming old girls.  Did I say winning games?

How did you get involved with roller derby?  
My flatmate, Tiffy (Bella Dominator) came and asked me if I wanted to start a roller derby league with her in late 2009.  I asked her what it was and she said, a skating game.  Well I loved skating so obviously said yes!  My passion for derby was slow to develop as she had omitted the contact part.  I wasn’t scared, but I wasn’t sure if that was me as I was into yoga – yeah peace out.  After a few years I was hooked.  This sport was complicated and required team work, a new challenge for me.  The hits, which I had my reservations about, ended up becoming one of my strengths

What if any are the challenges that comes with being involved in this sport?  
Ah that would be easy, I’ve never worn such horrendous outfits!  Along with the injuries.  I broke my ankle (spiral fracture) at training and tore the cartilage in my knee a couple of years later requiring another operation.  Nine days in hospital, the operation, the metal plate and screws, the drugs and not working or walking for a month does make one question derby.  My intention was just to come back social skating, as I had always skated and I refused to feel like something had beaten me.  As soon as I got my skates on I thought, this feels great, and I was back in.  Don’t let any of that put you off joining though, some people dig hotpants!  

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?
My first year in derby was trying to find enough players to make a team lol.  Realising that even if you recruited them, that didn’t actually mean they’d stay.  Thinking skating round and around was derby training.  Watching tiny little youtubes trying to figure out how to do plow stops and trying to teach something I didn’t know.  Committee work, more committee work and then some more committee work.  By the end of the first year we still hadn’t bouted.  So my derby path is completely different to the later generations. 

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
It’s hard and gruelling but the joy is yours if you really, really want it.

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
Don’t overthink, just go and do it.  Yes, you’ll make mistakes, get penalties and fall over, but that’s how you learn.  Look for the one that’s the best at it and go and ask her for help. Ask for feedback from your coaches, refs and teammates and be thankful, not hurt, to hear constructive criticism because they are the mirror you don’t have.  You’ll never be perfect and there are always so many things to master in derby.  NEVER give up trying to develop yourself.

What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track?
Winning games. Winning my MVP award.  Winning best Offensive Blocker of the year.  See a common theme here?  I feel a sense of accomplishment if my team and I have done absolutely EVERYTHING we are physically and mentally capable of by utilising our entire repertoire of skills during the game, not just flicking back into the comfort zone. 

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why? 
All of them.  I like the uneasiness of the unknown and bouting unplayed teams. 

What motivates you? 
I want to make my family and daughters proud of me and show them the strength of a woman.  I dream of sitting in the bleachers at Pettigrew when I am an old lady (I’ll still be 39) and watch a Bay City Rollers game with someone’s granddaughter bouting and thinking, I was part of this movement, I was involved in getting this new alternative sport off the ground in NZ and being completely happy.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I’ve learned many important life lessons through derby that I would not have had the opportunity to experience had I not been involved with 60 women.  Such as, everyone’s opinions count (even if not the same as mine) and how people’s motivations are very different.  Understanding and patience (ok I’m still working on that!).  Most importantly, I have learned to be a loser, a better loser, sounds bad but it’s actually good!

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?
Yes, for sure my butts tiny!  I’ve developed leadership and public speaking skills through derby.

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby? 
My profession is B2B Sales & Marketing/Account Management.  It’s been fun marketing the league as it’s has more creative leeway and appeals to a different market than a typical NZ business. My background in fundraising has helped secure sponsorship for the league. 

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your ‘real’ life?
This is the joke question right?  There’s no balance lol.  Derby is a lifestyle.  I have been the Head of many committees and chaired the league for over two tenures.  It’s not that I wanted to, or knew how to, but I turned around and everyone was looking up to me.  The time commitment has been huge and sometimes unbalanced, but my involvement and Bay City’s achievements are up there as being some of the things I am incredibly proud of in my life. 

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to? 
There are so many!  Firstly to Tiffy for having such a great idea.  I’d also like to recognise the foundation crew that set up the league.  We slogged it in those days there were nine doing what 50+ do now.  So thanks to Masta, Tiffy, Slay, Carnage, Aggro, Lynch, Hanarchy and Poison.  Andy and Nick for buying all the gear we needed to skate safely.  Elicia Nisbet-Smith & Hannah Jennings-Voykovich  for driving all the way down from Auckland through that second year to help us and wanting nothing more than some gas and hospitality, you are both awesome and I enjoy following your derby accomplishments overseas. To Sponge and Condy our sponsors from the Thirsty Whale thank you for believing in this new sport and backing the league financially. For every girl that’s come with a twinkle in her eye and contributed their time and energy to build our club.  There are just too many to name but you are not forgotten.  Happy Killmore for teaching me most of what I know about the game (yes, blame you).  Deecapitator for motivating me and making me laugh.  My derby wife, Feryl West for being a key contributor in restructuring the league.  To my PRArt Committee – you rock!  To all my team and clubmates for putting up with my sweat, distinct humour, scrag style of derby and bossiness. Finally to my family especially my darling daughters (Stevie and Molly) who have afforded and allowed me the time and space to do something I love…

Attention to our spectacular sponsors, fabulous fans, supporters and fellow derby darlings. Now's the time to make like derby and apply some urgency toward the first step on your derby journey by joining our latest freshmeat intake (Contact us now!). This advice is 100% backed up by our featured skater, Honey Grenade who says she waited far too long to strap on skates and join the BCR athletes on track in this wonderful game we love to play. So listen up soldier...we want you, just like we wanted Honey, who tells her story below and if a full contact sport isn't for you, but you LOVE to skate, then quick march toward our team of zebras and NSOs as there's something for everyone at BCR...

What is your derby name? Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name Honey Grenade?
I wanted a name that represented who I am in more ways than 1. Honey, because I’m certainly not tough, plus I live by Arataki Honey and, Grenade as my hubby, who has supported me 110%, had just completed 22 years in the army.  Honey Grenade, a natural fit as it suits who I am...

What is your number? Why did you choose it?
76. It’s the year I was born.  So when the refs are calling my number and sending me to the penalty box (which happens a lot) I’ll recognise it quickly and get off the track.

Quote & Why?  
Everything will be sweet as with honey.... Because it will...  I will work my butt off, get right into the thick of it and won’t let you down...

Describe what Roller Derby means to you?  
It’s not just a sport it’s the whole culture around it.  The members are all committed to representing and making Hawke’s Bay proud when we play other leagues.  But we also do so much within the community and love giving back.  Last year we donated our door takings to many local charities, set up Santa’s Wonderland in Hastings for the local business association, and we’ve had award winning floats in the Spring Festival thanks to some dedicated and very creative members.  The biggest achievement last year was the petition BCR started to secure council funding and get the Windsor Skate Park resurfaced!  There are so many talented people in the league.  It’s a well-oiled machine, using each individuals skills to better the league as a whole.

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby? 
My Freshmeat 20 week course started in April 2013.  Since then I haven’t stopped.  I even received the annual award for ‘Never Miss’ - best attendance in my first year!

Describe your first Bout?
Gosh I don’t really remember it.  But knowing me, my nerves would have been on the edge.  There would have been many ‘WTF moments’ and all the training around rules, penalties and strategy would have been completely forgotten on the first whistle.  I remember being sent to the penalty box quite a few times and I thought I was the worst team member anyone could ever want!  Luckily now I know that penalties are part of the game and even the most senior players get sent to the penalty box.

Which  team do you play for Twisted Sister/Runaways? 
Twisted Sisters!  A bunch of determined girls who are developing their skills so fast that we have an amazing track record that keeps growing! 

What is your position of choice? 
The coaches like to put me as Jammer, but I prefer to be a blocker until I’ve warmed up.  

What is your skate gear of choice?
I’m still on my freshmeat Suregrip rebels with upgrades to my wheels, nuts, cushions and toe stops.  The abundance of gear on the market makes one spoilt for choice so it can be very confusing, especially if you’re a beginner.  I slowly upgrade my gear as I begin to understand and rely on better products that will make me a better skater.

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?
Go to the bathroom twice, maybe three times...

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates? 
I need to go to the bathroom... again.... I wish the nerves would calm down, I wish the butterflies would go away.  But most of the time I’m watching the other team warming up, sussing them out, watching for the weakest link. 

What has been your best derby moments? 
Passing my skills test!  MVP for my Cherry Popping bout and another bout in 2014 plus being selected to play in the Red or Dead team at Sur5al with Happy, Angel, Chaos and Mortal!  I was the little tendermeat and they took me under their wings!

How did you get involved with roller derby? 
One stormy Sunday night.... I was watching 60 minutes when a documentary came on about Roller Derby.  I was fascinated and didn’t stop thinking about it.  I even stalked the Wellington League Freshmeat intakes for 2 years!  My work/life/commute balance in Wellington was full on, so I never had any time.  But moving to Hawkes Bay a few years back was the complete reverse and I jumped into the first available intake with Bay City Rollers as soon as I got here!

What if any are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport? 
Be prepared for a few bruises.  You may get injured, but the protective gear we wear really does its job.  Invest in your gear wisely and listen to your body.  If you’re sore, don’t push yourself, you’ll just make it worse.

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?
I went to a few casual skate nights in our old Warehouse prior to starting.  I was lucky enough to get the basics of skating under my belt with Annie von Carnage.  Then on the first day of Freshmeat 24 people turned up to give it a go!!  By the 8th week we were down to about 8!  Most of those girls are still involved with BCR today whether it’s on or off skates.   Our Freshmeat intake was coached by most of the senior BCR players and refs.  I was in absolute awe of them, which made me even more determined to stay committed and keep trying.  Still to this day I look at those players and absorb everything they do on the track.  Step by step, day by day, you eventually master those skills and learn this complex game.

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
Just do it NOW!  I waited 2 years.  If only I had started with Richter in Wellington 2 years prior – imagine how good I would be now!  

Who are your derby heroes?
At BCR when we pass our freshmeat we are all assigned a buddy to help us with the transition of skating with the big girls. So my obvious choice is my own buddy and mentor Happy Killmore.  She was and still is my rock within the league.  Her knowledge of the game, support, strategy and skill is a huge asset not only to me, but also the league.  The buddy system within BCR really does make the determined remain more committed.

How would you describe your derby playing style? 
Hhhhmmmm Passive Aggressive.  A little firecracker, but once the fuse is lit I go for it.

What is your pre-derby sports/skate background? 
I remember going to Skateworld in Onekawa when I was 7, does that count?  I’ve water and snowed skied since I was young, so that’s helped with my balance on quads.  Apart from that I hadn’t played any team sports since I left high school.

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
Watch your team mates, watch lots of games and practice it over and over again.

What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track?
My first vivid hip check against a Jammer on the apex and then ‘remembering’ to run her back in one of my first bouts.   Finally I felt like I had done something right – and understood what I was doing!

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why? 
Twisted Sisters have a really busy year ahead.  I don’t know much about Sulphur (Rotorua) but I’m really looking forward to playing them at home in April.  It will be the battle of the Pink and one game I might even let my Mother watch.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I’m pretty busy these days and don’t have a lot of time to relax.  When I do have a spare moment I’m often looking at the weather forecast and will try and plan a skate along Marine Parade along with coaxing my hubby to get back on his roller blades plus kids on their scooters to keep me company along the way.

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?
Confidence!  You would have never caught me in hot pants prior to derby!

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I’m a Sales Manager for a group of luxury lodges around the country.  Work and Derby don’t contribute to each other at all, however my steep walk up to my office every morning is a fantastic work out and one that I time myself on so I know I’m getting faster and fitter.  

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your ‘real’ life?
When I’m at home, I’m hanging out with my family and trying to be the best and most active Mum they could have.  I’m fully committed to my work and love my job but can’t wait for training days so I can forget about any stress I have.   I love Derby, but family always comes first. 

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
Sgt Maj Wooley, thanking you for supporting me with my goal and for becoming a Derby Widower, and looking after the kids while I’m achieving it.

Our featured skater this month is E Venger, while she outlines her derby history here, Eve could equally be called ‘Every skater can learn from this’ as right from day one Eve threw herself into derby, literally, to quote this accented, imported addition to our derby family and we congratulate her on her taking up the position as League Chair after keeping our dollars and sense, oops cents in check since joining the league.  She truly is a superhero of the Bay City Rollers.

What is your derby name? Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name.
E VENGER - As a big fan of superheroes, alter egos, adventure, SCI-FI and cartoons, this is where my thoughts took me when thinking about my derby name. Avengers had just screened so E VENGER was an extension on that and my initials at the time were E V. 
Everyone calls me Eve and seeing my name on bout rosters next to fierce names such as Mortal, Carnage, Chaos, Fear, Kill Billy and Manek always brings a smile to my face.

What is your number? Why did you choose it?
363 – as it’s part of my phone number.

Quote & Why?
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.
I believe in taking action and that hard work brings success. I do not mind falling over or making mistakes, it is part of a process. Do not get me wrong, it frustrates the hell out of me if I cannot master something right away, but it also makes me very stubborn and determined to sort it.

Describe what Roller Derby means to you?
Roller Derby is an amazing sport. There you have grown up mature women training, practicing and playing a full contact, full on sport; you have to admire it.  Add to that the strategies, rules, personalities, and that you do not necessarily have to be physically big, to make a huge impact on a game at a crucial time -  and you get quite a picture of how complex it is. I have met so many amazing people through Roller Derby, many of them have become great friends, some of them have become part of my family. I cherish it.

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby?
2 years. It feels such a long time and short time at the same time.

Describe your first Bout
I was so excited! Then during the first jam my nose started to bleed and for the rest of the game I had a wad of cotton wool stuck up my nose. I look so pretty in the pictures J

Which  team do you play for at BCR?
Iron Maidens.

What is your position of choice? 
I am a true blue blocker.

What is your skate gear of choice?
I have my beginner Crazy skates that I bought when I started. It is time to upgrade I think.  But most of all I value my Scabs knee pads, they really work for me.

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?
I get quite wired before a bout, so I just try to remain cool, calm and collected. Failing that I just goof around with Angel Rage. 

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?
I think I should really get another pair of laces, especially now as I gave my spares to Kill Billy.  

What has been your best derby moment?
Making it into the team to compete at Derby Royale in 2013 during my freshmeat year.  Secretly I wanted it so bad…and it worked out in the end.

How did you get involved with roller derby?
We were given Comp tickets to a BCR game and went along to check it out.  Then among the friends I said I can do that. My friends said, go on then!  I said, fine I will, you watch me…and the rest, as they say, is history.

What, if any, are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
Time and finding time for extra practice or even just to watch bouts. 

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby? 
My first year as Freshmeat was a real roller coaster; training was full on, but we had such a great bunch of people involved so we had lots of fun. I was eager to practice and learn, attending all the trainings except one when I was literally horizontal sick at home. Rockers trainings were open for spectators so whenever they scrimmaged or had visiting coaches I found myself hovering around there.  It was also amazing to attend a day of training with Holly Go Hardly, Snot Rocket Science and Joy Collision in Wanganui.  I had been skating for 6 weeks by then and this was my first time with full contact practice.  I survived and was totally buzzing after that.  By the end of the season I made it into the Runaways team and went to the Derby Royale tournament. When I saw my name in team roster I thought it must be a typo, but I wasn’t going to debate it.  We had a great time at Derby Royale and came home holding our heads up high.  A very proud moment…and that's it, my first year in derby.

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
No one else can make you better, improve your skills or make you fitter, YOU ARE IT so yeah get on with it. Learn to play with and trust your teammates because on track they are all you have got.  It is not an individual sport so you need to fit in.

What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track?
Best improved in my freshmeat year.
MVP for a couple of games 2nd year.
Captaining the Iron Maidens in my 2nd year.
But most of all I am proud of BCR as a league and our teams Twisted Sisters and Iron Maidens for doing so well.

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why?
The season looks busy and I am looking forward to all the challenges. 
I love the training and beginning of the year has offered opportunities to learn from the best in the world ie; Sarah Hipel and Stephanie Mainey.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I have discovered I have this new addition of active, loud, wonderful, marvellous, strong women and men in my family now and that has changed my life a fair bit. I do not have much time to contemplate or procrastinate these days. 

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I am a contractor. My jobs vary from office admin, event support, database management, web development to equestrian coaching.  I think that everything I do has taught me to be a survivor and that’s what is required also on the derby track.

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?
You have to. It really is that simple. I don't say it is always easy but good communication and careful time management it can be done.  It is very worthwhile having 'derby life' and 'real' life and for a good thing I am willing to work hard.

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
I would like to thank my mum for having me and raising me as at the time that was not easy for her. I would like to thank my family for always being there for me and loving me for who I am.  Very special thanks go to my wife Andrea aka MC HammerHer for…everything really! 

Whew it doesn’t seem possible that we’ve hit the end of another great year of derby…yet the fully packed calendar of events at BCR since the last newsletter has our Chair, Annette Barnard (also known as Feryl West) wondering how we managed to pack it all in. Chairing the league has been likened to herding cats…or that could be arranging group accommodation, but in any case the wrangling of people, meetings, groups, places, dates, dilemmas etc… is a huge job for anyone yet Feryl took on the role, rolled up her sleeves and got on with it this year with much grateful thanks from all of us at BCR. An early member of the league, our Feryl’s derby journey is featured this month, affectionately known as ‘Fez’ read all about her here...

Quote & Why?
Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together. 
I'm a big vintage and retro fan and this classic quote came from Elizabeth Taylor. The roller-coaster ride derby can sometimes put you on, it's more than appropriate and bloody good advice.

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby and BCR?
I joined Bay City Rollers in September 2010, it was their first Fresh Meat intake so everything was very new to all of us including the coaches who hadn't yet sat their own skills tests!

How did you get involved with roller derby?
The tried and true story, I'd seen it on TV a little bit, the local 20/20 or 60 Minutes documentaries. I told my boyfriend at the time I was keen and he informed me that there was a roller derby league in Hawke's Bay, intrigued I liked the FB page and a week later Hawke's Bay Today ran a front page article about them. I took it as a sign that I HAD to join.

What are your roles within the league?
I'm a bit of a jack of all trades within the league, I've done nearly everything except play and coach! I'm currently the Chairperson of the league and help with the Social Media side of things. My favourite role has always been Bench Managing and I was lucky enough to Bench Manage our team at both Derby Royale tournaments.

How did you transition into your support roles?
Within the first few weeks of joining I very quickly realised I didn't like hitting or being hit, and quite enjoy structure and order. So my decision to Referee was made very early on. When I wasn't able to Ref, I'd take on other roles where I could – Bench Manager, NSO roles and event assisting mainly. I retired from Refereeing 18 months ago due to illness and have carried on with the support roles and Committee work. I’m passionate about derby and it’s my life I just don’t skate.

Why did you hang up your skates?
Injury and a long term illness flared up and I realised I was not indestructible.

Was it difficult to hang up your skates?
Looking back, I think the timing was right; the pangs to skate are now few and far between.

Do you travel with the team (describe these trips)?
As an NSO, Bench Manager or assisting the team there isn't always the capacity to travel with the team, depending on where we bout will depend if these roles are available. I choose not to divulge any information about any trip apart from some of the singing on the road is terrible!

What has been your best derby moment?
My most memorable would probably be Bench Managing at the first Derby Royale in Palmerston North, the team played absolutely amazingly and it was my first time Bench Managing. The positive comments from so many other players and officials regarding how the team played was awesome. The feeling of being able to support and cheer for my league rather than being a stony faced (neutral) Referee or NSO was great, it's a completely different feeling being on that side of the team.

What if any are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
Pleasing 60 women, making sure any decisions you make are for the greater good of the league as a whole rather than benefiting a few. 

What advice do you have for those who interested in joining the league?
Just do it, there are roles for everyone, whether you're sporty or not I bet whatever you’re interested in hobby wise or for your day job those skills can be utilised in some way to benefit the league.

Who are your derby heroes? 
When I first started Refereeing my derby heroes were Danger Danger and Mental Annie, I refereed my first bout under their expertise and it was a fantastic introduction.

What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments?
Winning the Jekyll and Hyde award (best derby name) at the first Christmas party, I was Fresh Meat at that stage so it was pretty awesome. And most recently winning Miss Dedication at our Christmas party a couple of weeks ago, this year has been pretty full on so it was nice to have the recognition.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I'm much more confident, I've learnt a heap of new skills and it even helped me get my foot in the door for a great new job!

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?
I think the changes have definitely been internal, I have more faith in myself, I KNOW I can do it if I put my mind to it, anything is achievable, Previously I just wouldn't have tried for fear of failure.

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I work in administration in the fishing and wholesale food industry. I was already heavily involved with derby before I started but staff were already fans of the league. It's great to come to work Monday morning and be able to have a review of the weekend’s bout with the boss and see his take on it as a fan.

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?
I don't think I really have, it's all or nothing but I'm ok with that, I don't have kids or a partner so I have the time to commit and it gives others with kids and partners a bit more time to balance theirs. Yes, that’s me all for the greater good of derby!

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
The three gals who I've spent a lot of time with, travelling, laughing, putting up with my grumpiness and generally just being there and checking in when things have gotten a bit stressful... my derby wife Porterhouse Skate, Barbed Fire, and Garbo Gal.

When our Kill Billy gets that glint in her eye you just know something exciting’s about to happen on track and it’s no wonder she won the coveted title of Player of the Year last year.  Come and see our featured special number 8 skater, Head of Coaching and this week’s Captain on track this weekend at Latham Street’s, Rodney Green Centennial hall.  Yes…it’s this Saturday November 1st that Bay City Rollers, Iron Maidens take on the big city gals, Broadside Brawlers from Pirates in Auckland.  Fun for all the family and always action packed come on down and see what roller derby is all about.  Bring a banner for your favourite derby girl.  We’ve got rollerskaters, thrills and spills just for you, our fabulous supporters.  Doors open at 5.30pm, $5.00 entry for the adults and a gold coin for kids under 12.   Perhaps your banner will be for our Billy…read all about her here.

What’s your derby name – how did you come up with it?
I really struggled to find one I liked and suited me, so many were already taken.  I then though of ‘hill billy’ type names and  after watching the two Kill Bill movies, came up with Kill Billy…but league calls me Billy.

And your number?
The number was easier than the name for me as Mum, my brother and me were all born on the 8th, although in different months.   It’s become our family number and we all pick it.  

What advice would you give to new players?
Train hard with no excuses. If you want to achieve something, set a goal and only you can make it happen.  You must put in the hard yards to earn success. In derby you must be fit, mentally and physically aware and know the game to ‘survive’ some of the teams you come up against.  So train hard with no excuses.

Tell us what derby means to you…
It’s hard for me to explain what Roller Derby means to me. It goes beyond what happens on the track and what you train for.  It’s a huge part of my life now – it’s my culture. I cannot imagine my life without Roller Derby.

When did you hit the track?
I was hooked at 19 and the last three and a half years have been a blast.  My first bout was awesome.  It was against Whenua Fatales in Levin against a lot of skaters who were bouting for the first time as well. Twisted Sisters (The Development Team) had just been created and this was the debut bout for Twisted Sisters so it was quite an honour to be a part of it and we won!   I’m now playing for our Iron Maidens.

How did you hear about roller derby?
Long story – I watched ‘Whip It’ when I was young, but never thought it was a real sport. Mum works with a teacher whose wife is associated with derby and one day the topic of derby came up between them…Mum mentioned this conversation to me and curiosity drove me to find out the details, luckily the next Fresh Meat course was starting a week later.  I had never worn roller skates in my life before.  The first time on eight wheels I felt terrified, I couldn’t stop, but we were told it’s okay to fall, in fact it would be awesome if we did fall.   I’d begun with a friend and we were both so ‘un-co’ we couldn’t stop giggling, as we tried to stay upright.   Each week I grew more confident on my skates, began learning technique and I gained speed.  I couldn’t wait until next training.  I have loved it ever since.

What are your favourite positions on track?
I play both jammer and blocker positions in every bout.  When I’m blocking I like to be talking and touching the skaters around me, letting them know I am there with them and ready to go into whatever formation we need to.  When I am jamming I have no idea what happens, it just turns into a blur.  One minute I’m the target and then the next I have to quickly race back around to do it all over again.  When I’m feeling really agile and fit, I like jamming and other times I like being where the party is and want to hit people instead of being the moving target.  I like that I get to have the best of both worlds.

And what do you skate on out there?
I wish I knew about gear, but the truth is I’m a novice; although I upgraded my wheels after a couple of years and I felt like I was literally flying around the track.  New wheels made me fall in love with derby all over again.

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?  Any last minute thoughts as you skate out?
Not as such but I usually get really excited and talkative or when I’m not excited and feeling amped, somebody will wake me up with a pinch or a slap and it’s always just what I need.  I need new laces is what I think, because my laces snapped once before a bout and I freaked out as I didn’t have any spares, luckily E Venger did and ‘lent’ them to me. I still have them on my skates now. 

Tell us about your on track favourite moments.
It’s always an awesome derby moment when you jump the apex as a jammer, even better when even the refs compliment you on how impressive it was after the bout, which happened for me in Palmerston North.  My first ever sternum block to a skater was also a highlight. I was jamming and coming up the apex when a skater tried to block me while she was going backwards, we had just gone over sternum blocks at training the week before so I was all pumped and ready to try out my new move, all I need was a skater to face me and waalaa it happened.  I got down low and headed for her chest with my shoulder, I connected with her and then pushed up with all my leg force. Without realising how much force I had put into it, the skater came off the ground and flew backwards off the track.  I was kinda shocked but quite impressed with myself at the same time.

What advice would you give to somebody contemplating derby as their sport?
Come and watch us play!  The best thing you can do is find out what the end result looks like. I used to coach fresh meat and I was mind blown when I began to teach the skaters how to hit and someone asked, ‘is this a contact sport?’   I think you need to know what you are going to be in for before you invest: gear, your time and the coach and league supporter’s time. Although in saying that there are many ways you can be involved in derby without actually playing like referring, NSOing, admin and support...even photography.

And as a coach…what advice would you give?
Work on your agility and lateral movement for both blocking and jamming. There are lots of agility drills you can practice.   As a jammer you need to be able to juke and quickly take little gaps and be light on your feet, so the bouncier you are on the your skates the quicker you’ll be.  As a blocker you need to be able to read jammers and mirror their movements and be quick enough to chase them so being an agile blocker is vey useful too.   I wasn’t one to watch derby on the internet, which I probably should have…but that will help too.  Roller derby is a completed game so I am an on-going learner, be willing to keep learning.

Is there a player that inspires you?
Suzy Hotrod never fails to impress. Her moves are flawless and effortless. Simply amazing.

Everybody struggles with derby/life balance, how do you manage it?
The biggest challenge for me is being hooked on derby and so involved in the league, as this year I’m Head of Coaching, a role I enjoy.  As Head, I’ve had the opportunity to work with different people, in ways I haven’t previously worked before such as working through conflicting views and opinions, creating proposals, organising training content, coaching rosters, team selections, event organising and coaching etc… acquiring new skills that I’ve applied in my day job.   It’s been great to have had the opportunity to help BCR grow while gaining those benefits for my ‘normal life’.  It is tricky balancing training, traveling for bouts, coaching, derby meetings, work and then everyday life on top of that.  It’s well known in the league that I like a lot of sleep so when we have away games I usually need all of the next day to be lazy around the house.  I work a 40 hour week which is tiring for me too, so when we don’t have a weekend bout  I usually want to stay home with my fur babies and fiancé and watch movies.  I love derby and I couldn’t imagine life without it, but it is time consuming, which unfortunately means other things get put second. 

What is your day job?  Does it affect your derby life?
I am an Early Childhood Teacher. While studying for my degree I learnt about learning styles, theories and models as well as human development and brain development so I am aware that the skaters I coach learn differently to the skater next to them.  Some skaters will learn visually through a drawing or an actual demonstration and others will learn simply through a conversation.   Our coaching committee is quite diverse which means the skaters are able to learn from a variety of ‘teachers’ or coaches.  My job is quite a contrast to roller derby and skaters are often quite shocked when I say what I do and likewise when I tell teachers what sport I play.  I guess after being patient, caring and gentle all day with young children it’s sometimes fun to be rough and hit someone around a bit – legally of course.

Is there an upcoming event you’re excited about?
November 1st 2014 we’re up against Pirates B team.  BCR have never played them before so I’m really excited to play them.  I know it’s going to be a challenging bout and I know they’re going to make us work hard for our points.  I can’t wait.

Finally…is there a thank you you’d like to send out?
Yes, to my fiancé, Tip, for supporting me through derby and always being there for me when I have needed him.

Our own little cupcake, Sugar and Spite is BCRs featured skater this month.  Just like her sweet creations, that we’ve all enjoyed since Spite joined the league, she sure knows how to keep rising. Despite (pun intended) skating not being completely natural to our talented songbird, Spite knows how to keep getting up after being knocked back, down or out. Spite has been an amazing contributor to the league organising one of our successful home bouts and although we know and love her as Spite…she’s all sugar at heart.

What is your derby name? 
Sugar & Spite.  I went through a number of names before finding the one that fit.  I have always been described by others as a nice person and when I joined derby I was working as a baker so when the name came to me, it seemed to fit perfectly.  Generally I’m known in the league as, Spite.

What is your number? Why did you choose it?
My number is 180c – 180 degrees Celsius is the temperature cupcakes are baked at, so it was fitting.

Quote & Why?
My skater quote is “These ain’t your Grandma’s biscuits”  It seemed funny at the time – insinuating not to judge a book by its cover.  I might look sweet and innocent, but I can pack a punch!    

Describe what Roller Derby means to you?
Amazing friends, fitness, fun, competition, pushing myself and finding strength that I didn’t realise I had.   

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby?
Just over 2 years now.  

Describe your first Bout?
I was a bundle of nerves for the day or two beforehand.  The bout was a complete blur of me having absolutely no clue what I was doing if I’m honest.  I finally found my groove about 10 minutes before the final whistle and was so disappointed that it had to end.  Afterward I was on a high for about an hour and then all I wanted to do was sleep

Which team do you play for Twisted Sister/Runaways?
Twisted Sisters.

What is your position of choice? 
I really enjoy playing Blockers 2 and 4 but am starting to find my voice as pivot which surprised me but is also exciting.

What is your skate gear of choice?
I wear Riedell 165 boots, which I have modified with plates, cushions and wheels to suit me and my skating style.  For the gear geeks out there I skate on Magnesium Avenger DA45 plates fitted with 85a cushions and gumball toestops.  My wheels are Rollerbones Turbos – usually a combination of 92A and 88A in a pusher set up, with Rob’s magic bearings.
My protective gear is all Triple Eight and I absolutely swear by the SISU mouthguards – they make shouting to your team mates so much easier!

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?
Deep breathing and a healthy dose of Rescue Remedy.  I also try to listen to an upbeat song and sing at the top of my lungs (usually by myself in the car) to help expel any nerves or negative energy.

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?
Keeping my head in the game – being present, aware of my body, my capabilities and positive self-talk to push myself just a little bit more than I previously have.

What has been your best derby moment?
There are two that come to mind – the Tender Meat scrimmage at Low Down Derby Throwdown and playing in the Sur5al tournament in Levin in May.  It was an exhausting day but I got to play against some of the top derby players in New Zealand and really learn where my strengths and weaknesses lie on the track.

How did you get involved with roller derby?
I had been interested in derby for a long time, after seeing a 20/20 slot years ago about the startup of derby in NZ.  It wasn’t until I attended the first BCR home bout in April of 2012 that I’d actually seen any live derby.  Needless to say I signed up to fresh meat that night and the next month I was away!

What, if any, are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
Derby takes a lot of commitment if you want to pursue it seriously.  The league trains twice a week, but I also train outside of derby off skates a couple of times a week. I find the extra fitness boost really helps my skating, but it’s a lot of work.  Recently I bought a t-shirt that says “I can’t.  I have Derby.”  I think a lot of girls can relate!  Learning not only to fall, but to get back up (and keep getting back up!) has been a big challenge for me.

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?
Technically I am still freshmeat skating-wise although I have been in the league for 2 years. I am not a natural skater.  Every time I put my skates on brings a new set of challenges for me.  So freshmeat was hard.  But I was so determined that I would not fail, that I just kept on going.  It was disheartening to repeat the freshmeat course but I believe it’s made me a better skater at this end of my derby journey.  Freshmeat is a great time – for learning, for making new friends and for challenging yourself and pushing your own boundaries. I learned to play by watching a lot of derby,  getting involved in bouts through NSO-ing and by watching our team play.  I also watch bouts online, some of the international games are amazing; they inspire me to get better at what I do.

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
Don’t think, just do!  You won’t regret it.

Who are your derby heroes? 
Within BCR I have had a lot of support and encouragement from everyone, but skating wise I particularly admire Happy’s footwork.  Nationally, I really admire Miss Crunchbull from Hellmilton Roller Ghouls and Lady Trample, Sugar Hit from Pirate City Rollers and Fia Fasi Oe? from K-Town.  Globally, I love watching Smarty Pants and Scald Eagle skate.

How would you describe your derby playing style?
Messy!  I am definitely still learning, but I have found that I am getting a taste for playing offensively, clearing a path for our jammer and squeezing people out of the way.

What is your pre-derby sports/skating background?
I have dabbled in everything from Ballet and Jazz through to Salsa and Latin American.  I had never skated until that first day of my fresh meat course… now I love having wheels on my feet!

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
Keep persevering, whichever position you play or aspire to play, just keep trying!
When you’re jamming, keep on fighting to get through the opposition and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your team.
Blockers – embrace your booty and work on your footwork every chance you get.  On and off skates.

What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track?
It always feels good when you hit a jammer out or down.  I always feel happy with my work when I leave the track after a jam with a smile, feeling like I have done something useful.

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why?
There are lots of opportunities coming up for BCR’s two teams which are all exciting, but I think I’m most excited by the prospect of playing at the next Sur5al tournament.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
Roller Derby becomes a way of life and  I think this is common for people who fall in love with the sport.  Derby has given me a physical strength, but also a mental strength that flows through to the rest of my life.  The lift I get from training and skating is a real boost – I remember going to band practise after a bootcamp weekend and I played and sung the best that I ever had. 

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?
I’ve got fitter,but the main change is the feeling of accomplishment I have at trying something new, sticking with it and getting better at it.  Also the feeling of belonging to something bigger than myself.  The derby community is incredible in NZ and I feel that I have found a little place to belong by being involved.

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
By day I work on the IT Helpdesk in Local Government.  I’m not sure that it contributes very much to be honest.  I also have a small business making cupcakes and have definitely had more orders and opportunities knowing a whole different group of people!

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?
This is a tough one – As the incoming Chair of BCR it’s hard not to let derby completely swamp me.  I avoid this by having dedicated breaks from facebook/mobile devices and do relaxing things like bake, paint and listen to music.  I am also a bit of a clean freak so I clean the house as well.

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
Owen for giving me the push to take the first steps into derby and for his support through all my bumps, bruises, achievements and disappointments.
Dee, who has been there from day one, always with an encouraging word and smile together with
Skate, Rumble, Bruiser and my group of Roadies - always there with a hug and a reality check when I need it.

What is your derby name? Please explain the inspiration and story behind your derby name.
Krash Bambi Kute, which was semi chosen for me by a team-mate. When I started skating I looked a baby deer, tottling round looking very awkward. So my coach at the time called me Bambi, and the name stuck! Just Bambi wasn't very tough though, so my mum came up with Krash Bambi Kute, like Crash Bandicoot off of the play station games. I had to spell it different since a girl in up north has a similar name (we aren't allowed to have the same names!).

What is your number? Why did you choose it?
04, because my lucky number is 4. I don't know why, I just like it. I had to add the zero because again someone else already had 4!

Quote & Why?
In derby: The more you sweat in practice, the less you bleed in battle. Try hard! In normal life: Hakuna Matata. No worries, because lifes to short to worry. :)
 
Describe what Roller Derby means to you?
Roller derby to me.... Hmmm! It has become a way of life, because derby works it's way into every aspect of your life. Although I'm not manically obsessed with it like some people, I would definitely be missing something if I didn't play. Roller Derby opened up a world of people to me, and made me more outgoing. I love the people I have met, and would more lonely! (I met my boyfriend through roller derby, and most of my friends are from derby). It's also something that I'm kind of good at, I've always been pleasantly average at most sports! So it's a huge part of my life, and has definitely shaped who I am now.

How long have you been involved with Roller Derby?
I found derby when I was fresh out of high school, so I have been playing for 3 and a half years now. It's been so much fun and can only get better!

Describe your first Bout?
My first bout is one of my favourite memories of ALL TIME. It was also BCR's first bout, so everybody was super amped. We played the Richter City Convicts (Wellingtons' B team) and we beat them by four points in the last jam! We were all so pumped on adrenaline and exhilaration, it was the most excited I've ever been! I had the crowd cheer my name while I was jamming too, which was the coolest thing ever.

Which team do you play for Twisted Sister/Runaways?
I play for the Runaways. I have been with BCR since they began bouting, and have had the luck to be in the travel team ever since. I love that it changes though, the team you play with at the beginning of the year may not be the same team you play with at the end!

What is your position of choice?
Jammer! I love jamming. I work better by myself than with others, so jamming suits me more. (This doesn't mean my team doesn't help me! They do, a lot. I just am happy to do it by myself if needed too.) I love pushing against walls, that feeling of triumph when you break through. When you pull of a spin or hit on someone and sprint away, I love it all. I block too, but only when I have too! I enjoy one on one blocking, but mainly because I'm not used to communicating in the pack on track.

What is your skate gear of choice?
I am in love with my Antik skates! They have a special fancy plate and the boot is super comfy. They have really improved my skating style, and I feel like I could just dance in them! (Thanks mum)

Do you have a pre-bout ritual?
I always wear the same undies, and me and Angel smack each others helmets to wake each other up and get our grrrr on! Also, I have to nervous wee about 6 times...

What do you think about when you're lacing up your skates?
I'm usually pretty quiet at this point, I get quite nervous before a game. I think about what I want to work on in this game, like a certain move or strategy I've been working on, how to beat somebody who's been a pain to me in the past, and I make a mantra to repeat in my head.

What has been your best derby moment?
Having my family at my games cheering for me is the biggest thrill. Seeing them get right into it and hearing them while I battle around the track is awesome. Having crowds cheer 'Bambi' and little kids ask for my autograph is second best! The games all roll into one, but I am always enjoying it.

How did you get involved with roller derby?
I was at my grandparents house, and I read an article in the Napier Mail about the Bay City Rollers. I thought, you know... This could be a bit of fun! A few weeks later I was in a pair of second hand skates, becoming "fresh meat". Best decision ever!

What if any are the challenges that come with being involved in this sport?
For most people it's balancing time and family etc, but being young I don't find it too bad. The most challenging part for me would be being injured, I have been out with a knee injury for over a month now. It is a high contact sport, and at some point you will feel a bit worn out. Knowing when to stop and let your body heal takes some patience and control! It is also not a sport for the poor - derby can easily cost you a bomb once you start upgrading gear and get travelling!

Can you talk a bit about your Freshmeat (first year) year and how you learned to play roller derby?
Learning roller derby was interesting. It is hard, sweaty, but gratifying at the same time. Practising something over and over again until you can do it without fear is awesome, as well as nailing those fancy moves the coaches can do! I fell a lot, I learnt to balance my body to not fall, and I learnt that I had finally found something I could be awesome at if I worked hard. I was lucky enough that there was a training day in Gisborne that was offering skills testing, so my awesome mum drove me there for the day. It meant I jumped up to Rockers a bit earlier than normal, a welcome challenge! I was terrible at the actual game, I was so penalty heavy! All I could do was skate fast and not fall down, but I slowly got better :)

What advice do you have for girls who want to join roller derby?
DO IT. You will not regret it! It is worth it for the people, the exercise and new abilities, the confidence! Don't give up. But also be realistic in your goals, it can take a while to be comfy on 8 wheels. Come into derby with an open mind.

Who are your derby heroes? Porterhouse Skate of course
Hehe... My first ever derby heroine was Miss Angel Rage! She was vivacious and fast, a super jammer. I wanted to be just like Angel! She coached me to jam how I do, and inspired me to always have fun with derby. Don't take it too seriously. Now that I have seen a bit more national and international derby, I have a few more heroes. Lady Trample from Auckland is a girl who I wish to be like on track - strong, athletic, and an effortless jammer. She makes it look easy! Hauss the Boss and Smarty Pants from the Texas Rollergirls are my international heroes, for their agility and incredible understanding of the game.

How would you describe your derby playing style?
It has changed a little over the last three years, becoming more steppy and strong. A lovely ref I know told me I was being lazy, so that prompted me to up my game! Also, seeing the quality of New Zealand skaters at last years Nationals made me try a lot harder. So it evolves a lot!

What is your pre-derby sports/skating background?
I had worn a pair of quad skates once when I was in primary school, but apart from that I'd never been a skater until I started derby. I played netball and rugby in high school, and loved rugby. I was just a bit small and too chicken to play at club level! I now play soccer for Napier City Rovers and I love it!

What tips would you share with skaters looking to improve their jamming/blocking skills?
Watch high level derby, to inspire your skating and find things you want to work towards. Break skills down into manageable steps and work on those steps to nail the overall skill. Don't bite off more than you can chew! Identify what you need to work on, and practise it over and over again. And pick a tough partner to work with - they will push and improve your skills!

What are some of your greatest roller derby accomplishments on the track?
Oooooh hard! Derby becomes a big fast blur, but some moments stick out. Getting a 30 point jam, the first time I ever pivoted (I was so nervous), seeing a jammer fly after blocking them off the jam line, smashing over blockers who dare to turn and face me... Hehe the list could go on! Its the small victories that make derby so awesome, the overall score shrinks in comparison to those.

Do you have any upcoming bouts that you’re really excited for and why?
DUNEDIN!!!!! Our tartan sisters from down south have invited us down to play with them, which is a super exciting prospect! I cant wait, but I have a lot of training to do before then. It's exciting because they did really well at Nationals last year, and it will be a really challenging game. We are going to have to really gel as a team on the day, and work really hard to get our skills as good as we can possibly get them before September. Eeeekk!! And also our Home Bout in November, because I love having my friends and family watching.

How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I eat better, I work out more, and I enjoy life more. It has helped me come more out of my shell - I have always been relatively confident, but was quite happy to be by myself and at home. Derby pushes me into being more social and involved in the derby community, and has enabled me to become a coach. I had never been a coach before and it is an experience which has changed how I view others and what I am capable of.

Have you noticed any changes in yourself since starting?
It has made me so much more aware of myself - my health, my eating habits, my strength and fitness. I know that if I don't go to training or if I eat crap then I feel blah. I have a lot more energy because of derby! I'm much more accepting of people too, because there is such a huge range of people that you have to deal with, so I think derby has helped me become a better person.

What is your day job? And how, if at all, has it contributed to your experience of roller derby?
I am a vet nurse. My nursing job is very different to my derby life, and they don't really cross over at all. Sometimes my boss blocks me unexpectedly when I'm walking through the corridor! It shows that derby is taking over though - nearly everybody at work knows somebody involved in derby, or has come and seen me play!

How do you find a balance between your derby life and your “real” life?
I find it's not too bad, I have set amounts of work that I have to do for derby so I will obsess over my projects until they are perfected then have a rest. I find the long derby season tiring, but also enjoy the regularity. I'm probably one of the few that struggles to not let 'real life' (all my other projects and people) take over a bit too much! I'm good at prioritising, so can change things to fit what needs my attention. If it's derby, then that comes first. If its another project, I take a step back from derby. It all works out.

Is there anyone that you would like to send a special thank you to?
My family! My parents, grandparents and other family members who take an interest in derby and come and watch me play, thank you. Thank you to my boyfriend Micky, for loving derby too and spending time getting involved in my derby life. To my wife, Billy, thanks for making me try harder! For being awesome and pushing me to become a better jammer and blocker. To Angel, for being my bestie and always supporting me and driving me to be more awesome. And making me have a good time! To all my derby coaches and family, thank you for being in my life :)