Streetcar Named Destruction #27

Slaughterers

What prompted you to get involved in roller derby?

I went to high school with Rice Rocket from Texas Rollergirls and she introduced me to roller derby in Austin. I was too intimidated to join and didn’t have time for a while. Eventually, I ran into Assassination City Roller Derby skaters when I was out, and they made me sign up right there!

How did you come up with your derby name?

I chose my name back when we had to get it registered. My first choice was Loco Chanel, but it was taken. I think it might have been an ex-boyfriend or fellow skater who suggested Streetcar Named Destruction and I was in. People are always screaming “STEELLLLAAA!” at me, so I figured it was appropriate. Immediately, I was like, “why did I choose the longest name ever?!”

The sport seems highly physical. Have you ever gotten injured?

Yes, 2 years ago, I broke my fibula and dislocated my ankle at practice. I couldn’t walk for the first 2 months, but I think it was another 2 months after that I came back to practice and then my first game back was just a month later. It’s been much harder recovering mentally than physically.

What's the most rewarding aspect of playing the game?

Obviously, the friendships and community we are in is just amazing but for me, it’s pushing my limits in a way that most adults don’t get to do. I do things in practice I never thought I would be able to do when I first started and there isn’t a limit to what you can accomplish in derby if you put your mind to it.

What position are you most comfortable playing?

Blocker. All day. Every day. For me, being a jammer and having everyone staring at me is the equivalent of that dream where you go to school naked. Pass!

What are your non-derby hobbies/activities/hidden talents?

Hiking, swimming, hanging with my dog, baking, and I’ve been wanting to learn the ukulele!

Playing any sport is a huge commitment. How do you juggle that along with your life outside of derby?

What life outside of derby? Kidding! It really can be a struggle for people, especially when you’re on travel team. It just depends on how much time you want to put into it.

February 2019: Skater of the Month