Derby Name: Primp Daddy
Number: 73
Team(s): Cleveland Steamers (and BRRG All-stars of course)
Position(s): Jammer and I’ll play any blocking position—sort of fill in where I am needed.
What brought you to the realm of Roller Derby?
When I moved to Cleveland (with Damnasty) in 2007, we found a bar called the Garage online and wanted to check it out. Then…we met Rolla Doobie (then Jen) and she took me to my first bout. I got hooked but never thought for a second I would actually play until some hard convincing over drinks at the Garage happened. Doobie and I were all in and then convinced Damnasty…and here we are now 2 years later!
What has been your greatest achievement in BRRG?
I’m most proud of bringing new ideas to the league from my travels and exposure to other leagues (I travel a fair bit because of my work). Also, I feel like I’ve been lucky to contribute to the league-wide shift from a party image to a more competitive, athletic image (still fun though!).
What do you hope to achieve in Roller Derby overall?
I would like to continue improving my fitness and skill at the game and see where that takes me. The first year I spent learning how to skate and the current season has been dedicated to understanding of the game, strategy and leadership. Next year, I’d like to cash in on those chips and see where my skating goes.
What do you feel is your derby weakness?
Damn—so many things I am working on. Derby is a work in progress and when you put one fire out another one crops up. If pushed though, I’d have to say my muscle strength and anaerobic/sprinting fitness.
You are on the same team as your significant other, how has that been?
I can’t tell you how lucky I am that she is on my team! Back in the day we never expected to be on the same team and honestly didn’t care. But, it’s been good for our relationship time-wise and she has always been a shoulder to lean on in both good and bad times.
You have plans to play for Rat City next year, why is that?
When I moved here, it was always for 2 years only. I am moving back to Seattle for my job so that’s what takes me to Rat. But Rat is a highly ranked league and skater tryouts are TWO days long. Not exactly like our league! But I’m hoping that skating for two seasons with Burning River will help give me an edge. However, I have to say that regardless of if I make it on Rat City or not, BRRG will always hold a special place in my heart. After all, they took me when I could hardly stand up on skates!
What skates/equipment are you currently using?
I skate in the Riedell Phaze which is a jam skate. Problem is it has this super soft, comfy leather with zero break-in period. So…they are loose and I have to wear these adjustable in-line straps around the skate to keep them snug—especially for jamming. Otherwise, I love them! And I have probably been through more skates than anyone.
What skates are you eyeing?
I’d take something that fit and didn’t hurt my foot. Honestly, I don’t think the perfect derby skate has been made yet. I hope to see that over the next 10 years like we did with snowboards when the sport first started.
08′ Steamers to ‘09 Steamers, Thoughts, Feelings, Comments?
I am SO proud of my team this year. We have come a long way and the major difference from last year is that we now have a feeling of solidarity, team spirit and a positive attitude. My team and being the captain of the Cleveland Steamers is what makes me happy all the time this year. I never regret stepping into this role even if I signed up for the task as a pretty green skater. Leaving this team will be so hard for me. Go Steamers!!
Do you do any additional training outside of derby training?
Oh hell yes!! I go to the gym and also run. I am in constant search of the derby grail workout plan. Derby ain’t free when you’re my age.
What are your thoughts on the Turn Two Boys?
I heart the Turn Two Boys! I just started getting to know you toward the end of the season last year—I think I was in a rookie fog before that. You guys rock because you are such a great support to our league and I always love me a Cleveland Steamer fan!
Outside of being Captain of The Steamers, what else do you do for the league?
Well…BRRG represents sort of an additional job for me—I’m not kidding! I am the director of derby operations (Board of Directors position) which is a coaching figure for the league. In short, I’m responsible for the athletics, organization of practices and bringing in outside coaching and ideas. For instance, right now I am organizing a Bootcamp in June where we will host the nation’s best roller derby players right here in Cleveland. I hope this coaching experience will bring the All-Stars even closer to skating at regionals! And many, many other things–yes, BRRG keeps me busy!!
How do you enjoy being on the Travel Team?
It’s a real honor to skate with the best girls in our league. These are the girls that taught me how to skate. I consider myself lucky to be a part of an advanced-level team, and as one of the newer skaters on that team, I hope to learn much more from them.
When you are not playing derby, what do you do for fun?
I used to have a list of things but now roller derby dominates quite a bit. I do enjoy playing with my two Boxers, running, yoga, eating and reality TV. And in Seattle I liked wakeboarding, but not too much of that here.
How much longer do you think you will be able to play Roller Derby?
I don’t see an end in sight right now. I love the sport and the thought process/strategy is a big challenge that’s pretty addicting. I’m very healthy and I think it’s good for me. When I stop playing one day, I’d like to be a coach for junior or adult women’s roller derby.
Entries (RSS)