Skater of the Month - Penny Slain

NAME: Penny Slain

NUMBER: 79

How did you get involved with roller derby?

My sister, Crown Jewels, joined DRG in 2010 and she was continually asking me to join. Eventually, in 2012, I gave in and I’ve never looked back!

Tell us about your derby name and number?

My derby name is a play on the Beatles song Penny Lane. I’m not a particularly big Beatles fan but in the film Almost Famous, Kate Hudson’s character called herself Penny Lane and I liked that. So I changed it to Penny Slain to ensure it was bad ass enough for derby.

My derby number 79 is because I was born in 1979.

What is your skate gear of choice?

Riedell skates, Scabs kneepads and Anarchy wrist/elbow pads.

Before you discovered roller derby were you involved in any other sports/exercise, and if yes how has derby impacted on this?

Not really - I did dip in and out of things but didn’t really stick with them until I found the love of derby.

What is your position of choice?

Blocker, for sure.

Which teams other than The Silvery Tayzers have you skated with?

I am also a member of the Press Gangsters – one of DRGs 3 Home Teams.

Do you have a pre/post-bout ritual?

I like to have Purdey’s multivitamin drink before a bout, and a banana. Post bout I tend to afterparty with the team, hopefully to celebrate!

How would you describe your derby playing style, do you have a signature move?

I’m good at staying low and using my (significant) booty to positional block.

What is your day job? How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?

I currently work in HR but am leaving that career soon to start another in Primary Teaching! I think roller derby has encouraged me to improve my fitness overall and I have done so by joining a gym in addition to derby training. I tend to go to the gym Mon/Tues/Thurs and derby training Wed/Fri. This has really helped my fitness, especially to pass the dreaded 27 in 5!

Favourite motivational quote?

“I will be fine, oh yes, I will be fine” It’s made up but is a take on Garth from Wayne’s World (it will be mine, oh yes, it will be mine) when he wants the guitar.

Who do you choose as next month’s Skater of the Month?

I would like to nominate someone who has shown real enthusiasm, dedication and commitment to Dundee Roller Girls recently, and who has really developed a strong presence on track. She is also incredibly supportive… Ashley Tyra Fangs!