Why I Skate: Media Blitz

Why I Play – Media Blitz

I moved to Hampton Roads in October of 2004. I was immersed in work, and on the weekends, I sat around my apartment. Months went by, and I longed for a life outside my stressful job as a TV News Producer. And the pounds crept up on me. By October of 2006, I was at my highest weight ever. One of my co-workers skated derby, and I went with a group of friends to watch the Halloween bout. That’s when my life changed. I was hooked.

January, 2007. My first derby practice as “fresh meat.” It was hard, I was out of shape, and I didn’t know ANYONE. The coaches were tough. I toughed out the sore muscles, the bruises, and the stinky gear. I fell in love with the sport! The feeling you get after making it through a tough practice is like nothing you’ll ever feel again. With each practice, I felt stronger. And I made some great friends. And the weight came off!!!

A year later, and 60-pounds lighter. My calendar has filled up with so many “non-work” things. And the friends I made in the league, well they became my second family. We work to run the business we call the DDG. It’s a lot of work, but it’s rewarding. In the long run, I know we’ll flourish!

My league-mates and I have our ups and downs, but in the end, they’re still there. And even though there are times when I feel like I’m not moving forward, the coaches remind me how far I’ve come as an athlete. And my derby friends remind me that they’re still my second family.