Started Playing Derby: I started December 2016. Kinda crazy that it’s been two years!

​

Team:  South Jersey Roller Derby Travel Team, Deviants, Kill Scouts

 

How did you choose your derby name & number?

I love word play and science so I just kind of combined the two and BAM! NitroJen.

 

What led you to roller derby?
One night I was sitting at my desk, in need of a physical activity (since gyms bore me) and just kind of googled local leagues. Turns out, there was one less than 20 minutes from where I lived so I signed up. And it was as simple as that. I was first introduced to roller derby through the early 2000s movie Whip It and always thought it was cool. Plus I always wanted to learn how to skate so it was just meant to be!

 

What was your biggest hurdle when you first started derby?

Skating! Oh my goodness, I was awful. I am not lying when I say my strides were push-push-fall repeat. Even though I felt foolish a majority of the time, I kept showing up to practice. That was the most important thing. After about three months I finally felt comfortable on my skates and at that point I was addicted.

​

What does being a South Jersey Roller Derby member mean to you?

South Jersey Derby means family. We are loyal to our members and I would do anything to protect them. You can be a rookie and we will give you the same respect as a vet as long as the same positivity and respect is given back. I always have a great time with my team and I’ve met so many awesome individuals!

​

What would you recommend for a new rookie joining the league?

Give it a try and don’t give up! You don’t need to know how to skate or play. We will teach you everything. Just spend as much time on your skates as possible and you will improve!

 

What is your derby goal?

My current goal is to become a better jammer. In order to do this I need to push myself harder at practice, work on cutting, and making quicker movements to dodge players.

What's a little known fact about yourself?
NitroJen is in 78% of the air you breathe. You’re welcome.

​

Any notes you'd like to share?

I wanted to say thank you to all who paved the road before me. Thank you to my big SJ (Mt. Tushmore) for working with me and pushing me for months to be the best I could. A special thanks to Mos Deathly for all her years of commitment to the league through the good and bad. She really is the glue that holds us all together.