Velocityraptor
Better known to her fellow skaters as Raptor, she serves as the league’s president and plays an integral role in keeping the league business running smoothly. Watch for her on the track this Saturday with her home team, Scare Force One.
How many seasons have you been skating with the DC Rollergirls?
This will be my 7th season. I started Fresh Meat halfway through Season 3 and was drafted to begin Season 4.
How and why did you first get involved with roller derby?
I have my mother to thank for this, actually. She kept sending me newspaper articles about a childhood friend doing this crazy thing on roller skates in our hometown. Some co-workers offered to take me to a bout for my birthday and when the league asked for volunteers at the end, I thought… no way, I wanna DO this. So I came home, promptly emailed Recruiting, and they said great, see you in two weeks for Fresh Meat Camp!
What was your athletic background before learning how to play roller derby?
I did competitive gymnastics all throughout childhood and then played field hockey, basketball, and softball through middle and high school. Took a break during college, and was looking for something athletic and competitive to get back into after graduation.
What’s the story behind your derby name?
I worked at a child development center at the time so I polled the two-year-olds about what my name should be. “Teddy bear” (no), “My Mom” (um what? No), and “Purple Paint” were all thrown out as suggestions. Then one of them said “dinosaur” and I thought PERFECT. Velociraptors are speedy, smart, and sneaky, so I went with it.
What’s your favorite DCRG memory?
I have so many! Championship seasons. Undefeated seasons. The All-Stars earning their highest ranking ever at the very last Regionals (before the structure switched to mathematical rankings). Signing the lease for the warehouse.
