Started Playing Derby: I started July 2014 so its been about four years

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Team:  South Jersey Roller Derby Travel Team, Bruised Beauties

 

How did you choose your derby name & number?

I'm a chemist IRL so I wanted something chemistry related. I thought about using a chemical name or equation, but couldn't put something together. It probably would have too complicated in the end... Grimm from SJRD posted “Bunsen Burnher” and I went with it.

 

What led you to roller derby?
I've heard of this elusive roller derby for years. Mostly just images or some info about roller derby that was on tv in the 70s. I saw “Whip It” a while after it was released and was like “this is cool! I'd love to do that!” but couldn't being a broke undergrad. A few years later I saw someone wear PRG gear while at some event in Philly and decided to google local teams... and SJRD popped up! I inline skated pretty consistently as a kid/teen so I figured why not and signed up. And here I are now!

 

What was your biggest hurdle when you first started derby?

The biggest hurdle when I started, which is still a hurdle, are hits. I can take hits. I can dodge hits. Not very effective at throwing hits. But I've been able to stay up after taking a hit more recently.

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

SJRD being part of a group of misfits figuring out their place in the world. I've met and became friends with people who I would not have met else where. Some are people I would have loved to have been friends with as a teen. Some are people who I would have not image being friends with but it worked.

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

Perfect your basic skills. It is tempting to get into higher levels of play even if you're ready for it. But if some of your basic skills are sloppy you may struggle later with other skills. Also watch the veterans and try to deconstruct the skill you're trying to learn or shadow them. Ask them for advice if you're still having problems. Most people don't like this but... workout.

 

What is your derby goal?

Be a better blocker? But mostly be the best derby player I can.

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Any notes you'd like to share?

Big thank you to everyone who has answered my many questions or taught me a new skill! There are too many people to list.