June 2025 : Skater of the Month
Photo taken by wolfseyevisuals
On June 26th, 2015– only 10 years ago, same-sex marriage was legalized throughout the United States. Through decades of legal turmoil, the sport of roller derby has become a safe space for all those who enjoy the full-contact sport, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Roller derby has, and always will be, a home for all those who come to it.
This month’s feature will focus on one of our wonderful transgender athletes, Dee-saster!
Why did you start doing derby?
“I started derby when my girlfriend started, around 2012. I joined a men’s team and trained in ACRD’s fresh meat program. I found that I was more comfortable in the training program surrounded by women than in the men’s practices, it took me years to come to grips with that feeling and other experiences like it and I transitioned in 2024. I had started skating with DDD at that time after a 10 year break.”
What does derby mean to you?
“Roller Derby to me is a place to have fun. It’s where I go to put everything else to the side and work on building a winning team. It’s an environment that fosters competition and camaraderie. It’s a grassroots sport full of wild personalities. A place where I feel I fit in.”
Does roller derby change the way you view your identity?
“As I said in the first response it’s one of the reasons I am who I am today. It’s one of the things that cracked my egg. I started playing and found the first people I wanted to be like in my life and I am so glad I found it. Calling my myself a derby player is a pleasure.”
Does roller derby change the way you view your identity?
“Given how many lgbtq+ people are part of the league’s board and in positions of leadership it’s impossible to separate the two. There’s no discrimination or judgment rather inclusion and understanding. They have made it part of their mission to create a safe space for all. It’s tangible in the sponsors that support them and the policies they enact. They have made a league anyone is welcome to join.”
Is there anything you’d like to tell people curious about trying out derby?
“If you’re curious come watch a bout. That’s what made my decision. I knew when I saw it played that I wanted to be a part of it. It’s not easy but what is. The falls or hits won’t hurt as much as regret.”