February Skater of the Month: Breaking Babz
This month, our Skater of the Month is Breaking Babz. She is the captain of the Las Pistolitas and a member of the E-Ville Dead. Her outstanding contribution to the league on and off the track has earned her our February feature.
1. What attracted you to the sport of Roller Derby?
I have always been a "rough and tumble" kind of gal. I used to play rugby but due to injuries had to give it up. I was looking for an extra curricular that could fill that hole but soccer, volleyball and even dodge ball just didn't give me that thrill of full contact I was missing. My high school friend Spicey Meatbrawl suggested we try roller derby. Her sister had been playing for the Deathbridge Dames and she said it was a real riot. We joined fresh meat at the next intake and I have never looked back.
2. How did you come up with your derby name?
Well my nickname has been Babz since I was in elementary school (taken from my last name). I was trying to come up with some kind of rhyme or play on words but Babz doesn't rhyme with very flattering things i.e. flabs, crabs, etc. It was close to the end of my first season and my very clever derby wife ABBA Cadaver came to me with Breaking Babz. Not only did it incorporate my long time nick name but it seemed pretty bad ass so I kept it.
3. How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Strong-willed, opinionated, generous.
4. Who is your nemesis on the track?
I shall keep that to myself and let you be the judge.
5. Do you have any pre-game rituals?
I always start a few days before drinking tons of water and eating as healthy as I can. On game day I like to stay positive and visualize what I want to achieve in the game ahead both individually and as a team.
6. If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would play you in the lead role?
Meryl Streep
7. If you could have any super power what would if be?
Probably time travel.
8. What is your spirit animal?
The grizzly bear.
9. How has Roller Derby Saves your soul?
Derby has offered me a great physical outlet. More importantly I have made some incredible friends for life.
10. What do you do when you are not playing Roller Derby?
I am self employed as a draftsperson. I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I love to entertain and cook.
11. Who is your Derby Hero/Role Model?
There is no one in particular but I love watching teams like Gotham or Texas. That level of skill, team work and strength is inspiring.
12. Why did you start to play Roller Derby and what keeps you going?
As I previously said I was looking for an outlet, something full contact and exhilarating. I think what keeps me going is the sport itself, it is a very mental and physical game. Each time I play I learn a little more. This is a game that anyone (young, old, big, small, etc.) can excel at if they put their full mind and body into it.