Each month, the Men’s Roller Derby Association selects a skater that we believe to be the embodiment of the values we represent and the achievements that we wish to see all of our skaters attain. This skater showcases teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship both on and off the track. We believe that these values are the building blocks for any successful league, team, skater, and person.
This month, the MRDA is pleased to announce our choice for Skater of the Month to be: Tommy Gun of Bridgetown Roller Derby.
We were able to ask Tommy some questions about his role in the derby-verse and the interview is posted below.
Time in Derby: 6 years
That’s a funny story. I was in German class and we had to partner up. We were talking about sports in German and I told my class mate I played hockey all my life. She stops me and in English (which is funny because you would get in trouble for speaking English) tells me that she coaches men’s roller derby in Portland. She tells me to come out to a practice, so I did, and I have been playing ever since. Thanks, Hurt Vonnegut!
I think my biggest accomplishment is having the honor of making Team USA. Being able to skate against the best skaters around the World and to represent my country with my awesome USA teammates is something I never thought would happen.
How do you push yourself to be a better athlete?
I push myself to be a better athlete by being positive and having fun. This sport can be frustrating at times and it’s important to me to stay positive on and off the track. Also, my teammates help me push myself to be a better athlete. Without them I would not be the skater I am today.
What are your goals for the upcoming season?
Having fun is always my main goal but I think this year I have the same goal as everybody on my team and that is winning the gold medal in Portland.
Who inspires you the most?
The skaters in Portland inspire me the most. Wheels of Justice and Menace. The talent, skill level, and work ethic here is amazing.
Outside of derby I like to hang out with my teammates. We do things together as a team, which to me is important, because being a family and trusting your teammates is a big part of this sport. I also like to work out outside of derby, which I think is important for any athlete. I also enjoy hanging out with my girlfriend Yoga Nabi Sari who skates for the Rose City Rollers.
The Boys are back in town by Thin Lizzy.
My advice would be to have fun, be patient, and don’t be afraid to fail.
I would like to give a shout out to my coaches Licker n Split and Tarantula and to my teammates at Bridgetown especially my blocking line “3 men and a baby” Cozmo Damage, Demolition Man, and Juke Blocks Hero.
