DRD Spotlight - Ca-tash-trophe

SKATE NAME: Ca-tash-trophe |NUMBER: 20 | SKATING SINCE:2019

How does roller derby impact the rest of your life?

Roller Derby to me, is a safe place to express myself. It’s been a great way to keep me motivated, fit and active, whilst also being super fun and making some great friends. I have really missed this due to COVID, but I’m sure it will make derby an extra special element of my life when the world returns to ‘normal’.

Three words to describe derby to you?

Empowering, Supportive, Enjoyable

What is your most embarrassing moment in derby?

After the Graduation scrim -which also landed on Ruby Rage’s birthday- I wanted to surprise them with a birthday cake. I organized for the whole league to sing whilst I handed it over. Instead, I was my usual ca-tash-trophic self, fell, dropped the cake, and proceeded to skate over it. I was SO embarrassed; I don't think I'll ever live it down haha!

Tell us an interesting fact about you!

Despite my clumsiness and inability to keep balance, I can ride a unicycle! I am a really determined person, so this was the perfect challenge for me. I haven't ridden in a while, but I loved seeing people's faces light up as I wobbled past them

What is your job?

I am currently a student studying Community Education at Dundee University. I have worked in community work for many years now. I currently work in a local school providing 1-1 support for young people. I love my job and studying allows me to learn even more about something I’m so passionate about.

Any other hobbies out with roller derby?

I am moon child- I'm obsessed with space! I recently got my own telescope, I spend most nights star gazing and dreaming of one day visiting mars and waving to the man on the moon.

Favourite tv program atm?

I’m currently watching Modern Family. It’s such a feel-good series, I definitely recommend!

What's the biggest challenge you've faced in your derby time?

Without doubt passing my 27/5. It was a killer; I've never been so proud of my wee asthmatic lungs before! The hardest part was keeping a positive mindset, when all could think about was, spewing and going for a well needed nap.

Who is your derby hero?

My future self! COVID has given me the opportunity to work towards self-love and self-growth. Looking back at my younger self- eager to start derby but too young- I've done myself so proud already! I can’t wait to see what derby holds for future Tash.

Motivational quote?

“You know, as we come to the end of this phase of our life, we find ourselves trying to remember the good times and trying to forget the bad times, and we find ourselves thinking about the future. We start to worry, thinking, ‘What am I gonna do? Where am I gonna be in ten years?’ But I say to you, ‘Hey, look at me!’ Please, don’t worry so much. Because in the end, none of us have very long on this Earth. Life is fleeting. And if you’re ever distressed, cast your eyes to the summer sky when the stars are strung across the velvety night. And when a shooting star streaks through the blackness, turning night into day… make a wish and think of me. Make your life spectacular. I know I did.” - Robin Williams

Who do you choose for next month's DRD spotlight and why?

I choose Edna Ken! She’s been a fantastic friend to me and really helped me to keep motivated, determined and happy. You’ll find her on track ALWAYS with a smile on her face!