Skater of the Month - Tiny Tearaway
NAME Tiny Tearaway
NUMBER 931 How did you get involved with roller derby? I saw an article about roller derby in a newspaper (think it was about ARRG) and my friend had just started at Fierce Valley Roller Girls. I had always liked skating so I watched Whip It and decided that it was the sport for me.
Tell us about your derby name and number? My number was easy; it is the birthdays of my two children. I have a habit of crying at everything, musicals, an episode of neighbours (when it was ok to watch neighbours) so my friends called me tiny tears. It was changed to Tiny Tearaway as I didn’t want to be known as the crying doll on track :) What is your skate gear of choice? I skate on Reidell 495’s with hard wheels (don’t asked me which kind lol) 187 pro derby pads and an S1 helmet.
Before you discovered roller derby were you involved in any other sports/exercise, and if yes how has derby impacted on this? Before child number 2 I used to run a lot. I completed several 10ks and a tough mudder once. I haven’t really found the love of running since. At high school I played hockey for 3 years as a goalie. I liked the team aspect of the sport, which is one of the reasons I love derby.
What is your position of choice? As a referee I definitely prefer jam reffing. I think this may have something to do with the fact that jamming is my favourite position as a skater.
Which teams have you skated with? I started skating in 2012 with FVRG. I played on their travel team The Parma Violents for about 2 years when I decided to become a referee. In March 2016 I transferred to DRG as a ref and hadn’t really thought about going back to skating. DRG are an amazing league and with their help and support I now referee and skate in the B team, the Bonnie Colliders. I made my debut back to skating in November 2016 as Co-captain of the Jukes of Hazzard for home teams.
Do you have a pre/post-bout ritual? Not really, I just like to eat lots. I used to get very nervous before I played or reffed and had to have a few minutes by myself. A friend told me to sit and look at my helmet in my hands until the nerves past. I haven’t had to do that for a while.
How would you describe your derby playing style, do you have a signature move? I don’t think I have a style as such. I think I am pretty strong and quick on my feet, which definitely helps when trying to get through walls. When reffing I like to think I am professional but still fun.
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 freelance photographer: Onwin Photography. I am very lucky to work from home and pick my own hours as I get to spend lots of quality time with the kids and I don’t feel guilty when I have games. My family are very supportive of my hobby and love to watch me play. Although they say watching me ref is boring.
Favourite motivational quote? “Nothing is IMPOSSIBLE, the word itself says I’M POSSIBLE!” - Audrey Hepburn
Who do you choose as next month’s Skater of the Month? I choose someone who has been a brilliant friend and teamie from day 1 of me joining DRG. Really can’t compliment her enough. Fantastic skater, both blocking and jamming. She always has the skater's best interest at heart as co-captain of the Bonnie Collidiers. She is always so funny! This girl can make you laugh at every session but is there for you if you need a wee shoulder to cry on. I nominate the wonderful G-Wrecks #713.
