#810

D.Ride or Die

Hometown: Ottawa IL

How did you get into derby? I’ve always loved roller skating and have wanted to try roller derby since about 2007, but I had no idea where to start. I shelved the idea for a while until I saw a bunch of skaters at the Pride Parade in 2013. There I began with Derby Lite. After facebook stalking a few of the DL coaches I saw that Mimi Furst and Sue Flay were “attending” a boot camp held by the outfit. Intrigued by this I also clicked “attending” and asked Mimi about the details. The rest is history!

Why The Outfit? The outfit is more than just a team of athletes; it’s a family and a culture. I wanted to get to know the people I am playing with and practicing with for 15 hours a week. It is important for me to really connect with my teammates and create bonds that go beyond the track. In doing that I have gained so much more confidence in myself as a skater and pride to say who I represent.

Who is your derby wife? I don’t have a derby wife, I have a derby mom who has been with me since day one of Derby Lite and shes the best! Shes so encouraging and helps me when I’m feeling down. I don’t think I could have lasted the first couple months without her. Scarlett Bruiser!! <3

Who is your favorite gangster? Myself. Damn it feels good to be a gangster.

What is your pre-bout ritual? Not to think about the fact I have a bout. If I do, I totally freak out. I like to just act like its a normal day. Hang out with my cats, eat some food, relax, and then about an hour before my bout go “oh crap” I should probably get ready for the bout.

Random fact about you: In my free time I enjoy playing Euchre and Bar Trivia.