Today we meet RockJess Monsta. She started bouting last season so you probably saw her play. To find out about how to join a league as a volunteer, referee or skater, find your nearest league’s website or facebook page for more information (Shoreline’s recruitment starts January 6th). Now back to RockJess and what she loves about roller derby.
Derby Name: RockJess Monsta
Jersey Number: B52
Q: What attracted you to roller derby?
A: I’ve known about derby since I was a kid, but always thought it was a thing of the past. So when I found out that it was a real sport and was offered near where I work, I instantly got excited and gained a goal. I grew up running and competing in track and field as a sprinter and pole vaulter. I was fiercely competitive, so I had this void that I’ve been needing to fill. It had to consist of something challenging, very physical, and something that I had to learn nearly everything about. Roller Derby was it. Especially since I barely quad skated prior to jumping in.
Q: Everyone has a skill that takes them a little longer to learn, what have you had to put a little more work into learning?
A: Skating took me a little while to feel comfortable in general since it was so new to me, but once I got rolling, transitions (turning 180 degrees while skating) were my kryptonite! I would fall, trip and get so mad at myself. I just practiced the motion of stepping and turning over, and over and over, in line during drill practice, at home in my kitchen and on my lunch break at work. But eventually, it just clicked, and it’s finally getting to the point where I don’t have to think about them too much.
Q: What part of derby makes you feel like a rockstar?
A: Roller derby ALWAYS makes me feel like a rockstar, it’s such a fun, cool sport with the best people! But I get really excited and amped up when I bust out of the pack as lead jammer and my blockers are holding back the other jammer. That’s the best feeling when we work that fluently together as a team.
Q: Do you have a favorite bout moment so far? If so, what?
A: This was my 1st season and year as a skater, and I was lucky enough to play a few games with my league and another. Every bout has been a learning experience and has great memories. But my favorite moment so far was when we played WoRD up in Mass. Everything about that game was difficult, between the slippery floor and the tough hits, but we had fun and I adapted and learned as a new skater. And then I was surprised with my 1st MVP Jammer award. That’s a moment and feeling of excitement and accomplishment that I won’t forget.
Q: What has surprised you the most about roller derby so far?
A: The amount of rules! I mean, every sport has rules, but roller derby is very specific. There is always so much going on at one time that we have to have multiple refs to keep track of said rules and penalties and points. The more I learn the rules and understand why they’re there (believe me, I’m still learning all of them!), I’m grateful for them as they are implemented to protect the skaters and keep the sport about the sport and not just the hits.
Q: Is there anything you’d like to add? Here’s your space.
A: If you’ve ever liked challenging yourself, or want a new hobby or sport with other women (and a few men) who will support you and encourage you, check out derby. Don’t be afraid. It’s not just about skating. We need skating refs (mostly non contact) and NON-skating officials to help run the bouts and help with the league. And as a league, we all participate in promoting ourselves, running our bouts, fundraising and working together with the community. Long live derby!
