Skater of the Month - Autopsy Turvy
- Jan 1, 2017
- 3 min read
NAME Autopsy Turvy
NUMBER 206
How did you get involved with roller derby?
When I was younger I absolutely loved to skate. In 2011 I saw an advertisement for Dundee Roller Girls newbie intake and it really sparked my interest in the sport. I went along to a taster session and absolutely loved it. Unfortunately I was in my final year of University so I couldn’t commit to the sport. In October 2015 I decided it was time to commit to training. I’m so glad I decided to go back, wish I had done it sooner.
Tell us about your derby name and number?
My derby name came from a brain storming session whilst travelling to Glasgow. I wanted a name that incorporated my day job and also reflected my skating style (flailing limbs everywhere). I can’t take full credit for my name, it was my big pal Optimus Grime who came out with Autopsy Turvy. My number 206 comes again from anatomy, 206 bones in the body. Hopefully I never break any through derby…
What is your skate gear of choice?
Bont hybrid microfiber boots
Juice java wheels
Shadow helmet
Scabs knee pads
Killer 187 wrist and elbow pads
Before you discovered roller derby were you involved in any other sports/exercise, and if yes how has derby impacted on this?
I have never really played team sports before derby, with the exception of P.E. at school. Before derby I would keep fit by going to the gym etc. but derby is much more fun that running on a treadmill.
What is your position of choice?
I love to block, recently I have been working on offensive blocking which I am enjoying immensely.
Which teams have you skated with?
I have skated with the Bonnie Colliders and DRG Home Team the Press Gangsters. I have also skated with Bite Club as part of a charity bout in Glasgow.
Do you have a pre/post-bout ritual?
I just try to get a good sleep, have something substantial for breakfast and drink a lot of Lucozade pre bout. I also like to listen to Biffy Clyro “Many of Horror” especially when playing with the Colliders. Post-bout usually involves some Chinese food and copious amounts of beer.
How would you describe your derby playing style, do you have a signature move?
My derby style is just a combination of me trying desperately to get our jammer through the pack without falling myself, and trying to absorb big hits from opposing blockers. I usually skate very tall, much taller than I should, so if I had to name my style it would be giraffe blocking. I don’t think I have any signature moves… yet. Watch this space!
What is your day job? How has your involvement in roller derby affected the way you live the rest of your life?
I am a PhD student by day, I am almost finished my PhD in Anatomy and also do some teaching during the academic year. At work I find myself talking about derby all the time and have encouraged many of my colleagues and some students to come along to watch games, a couple have even participated in Newbie sessions. Derby has had the most positive effect on my life, I am fitter and happier than I have ever been.
Favourite motivational quote?
“You do you boo boo, and I’ll do me”
- Kevin Hart
Who do you choose as next month’s Skater of the Month?
I choose Guns and Bosies aka Asa Smith. She is an INCREDIBLE blocker (and jammer come to think of it), she has helped me develop my offensive/blocking skills so much and is so patient with me at training and is one of my true derby inspirations. She’s also a hilarious and lovely person who shares my love of Ru Pauls Drag Race.
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