February 2024: Skater of the Month

Leviathan (Laura Shearin)

Death Row Rumblers

What made you decide to get into roller derby, and how long have you been skating?

A friend of mine told me her favorite bartender was in a roller derby bout and she asked me to come with her to watch. I saw a "now recruiting" poster during the bout. As I watched the bout, I felt it would be very interesting to be in a sport again. They accepted me and put me through their fresh meat classes and my first bout was June of 2017 for Key West Derby Dames.

How did you pick your name?

My husband named me.... Since we lived in Key West, I was heavy into spearfishing, reel fishing, scuba diving and freediving. I was also an avid surfer during our time in Hawaii. The ocean is my happy place.

What was the hardest skill for you to learn as a new skater?

Plow stops and being proficient with them. They still need work.

Do you have any pre-bout rituals?

Carb load the night before and a good carb lunch. No eating after 1pm for a bout that is at 6pm.

What do you like to do outside of derby?

Since moving inland, I mostly ride my custom Harley Road King or Fat Boy. I am also a huge fan of naps.

Do you have any advice for new skaters?

Be kind and patient with yourself. Everyone falls and fails no matter what level you skate. Keep working on it and it will happen.