Featured Cadet: April

 

Tells us a bit about yourself. Do you have kids, what is your career, do you have pets, etc.?

I have one 4 year old son. I am a criminal defense attorney and supervisor at the Legal Aid Society of Suffolk County. We have a cat named Hailey. I grew up in Wisconsin.

 

When did you join SIDR?

Fall 2017

 

How did you first hear about us, and what led you to want to become an SIDR skater or Ref?

When I moved to Long Island in 2009, I looked up local roller derby teams and found Strong Island Derby Revolution. I had been curious about roller derby when I was living in Albuquerque, Mexico. I had hoped to go to some bouts here. I did a lot more research online and got more excited about actually trying roller derby as a way to get exercise and learn something new. Then last year I got an email about recruitment. I decided to try out to see how I did, and I was hooked.

 

What was your bootcamp recruitment experience like?

It was very welcoming and encouraging. I hadn’t been on skates in about 20 years and had trouble balancing. Several skaters came up to me and told me that the most important thing to do when I fall down is to get right back up. Another skater told me they had hung onto the wall during their recruitment too. I keep these things in my head when I’m having a rough practice.

 

What have you found to be the most challenging aspect of derby so far?

Not getting discouraged because I’m not learning skills as fast as I think I should.

 

What has derby done for you both physically and mentally?

It’s definitely been an excellent way to stay in shape and have fun. It’s also made me think of myself as an athlete, which I’ve never thought of myself as before.

 

What are your derby goals?

To pass my minimum skills so I can safely play in a bout some day.

 

What quote helps you to get through challenging times in order for your to push yourself to reach your goals?

Fall down 9 times. Get up 10.

 

Based on your experience, what advice would you give someone who is brand new to derby?

The same advice I get, everyone progresses at their own pace. You will get better if you practice and work.

 

 


Did April’s story inspire you to try roller derby?

We are having a recruitment bootcamp on September 8th – Skaters, Refs, and Officials wanted! Register here