Name: Athena Monster
Age: 30
Height: 5'8
Team: La Revolucion
League:Assassination City Roller Derby , Dallas, Texas U.S.A.
Position: Blocker / Jammer
Training/Playing since: May 2006
Rivals: My former teammates, The Lone Star Assassins
Why do you play roller derby?
I have loved to skate my entire life, so when I saw my first rollergirl, there was no doubt that I had to be one. Now that I'm playing the game, I love that it engages my mind and body all at once.
What are your favorite two things about playing roller derby?
1.) Since roller derby combines sport with show, it appeals to my inner thespian as well as my inner athlete.
2.) I love that we skate on quads. I probably wouldn't play if we did it in roller blades.
How did you get your derby name, Athena Monster?
After my initial heartbreak at learning that you couldn't use the same name as any other rollergirl in the US or Canada, I had to dig a bit deeper (I wanted to be Annie Chokely!). I like the names that use puns, so mine is like "I theen a monster!".
What roller derby skates and gear do you use? What skates make you drool?
I have Carrerra skates with green fugitive wheels. My pads are Pro-Designed and helmet is a Brainsaver. I've always loved the Ridell skates with the white stripes. Those are my dream skates!
What would you tell someone that doesn't know roller derby to get them to come to a bout?
You've got to see it to believe it! There aren't enough words to describe it.
What else, besides play, do you do for your league?
I'm the Media/PR chair, and an Assistant General Manager.
What was your worst injury from roller derby so far?
I bounced off my tailbone right when I started and had to buy a donut to sit on. It took over a month for me to walk normally again!
How hard is it for you to balance your derby and real life responsibilities?
I work full time, and I'm pursuing a graduate degree, so it's a very delicate balance. I try not to let derby take too much time, but when it's in your blood, it's really hard to make yourself focus on other things.
Where do you see the sport of roller derby in 5 years?
Even the most cynical of people will have heard of derby and possibly seen a bout. Rollergirls in all major cities will be selling out their bouts regularly!
What is your theme song?
Pour Some Sugar on Me
What is your favorite food?
Cheese enchiladas.
Many thanks to Athena Monster for letting us do the Q & A thing!
