Q&A with D-Day of the Heartless Heathers

Skater Name: D-Day
Age: 32
Neighborhood: NE Portland
Beverage of choice: wine or celebratory champagne

I didn't see a bout until Season One, Bout Three, but I always assumed you were with RCR from the beginning. Is that right? How did that happen?

Yes, I joined about a month after RCR’s inception, I saw a tiny message in the Mercury looking for skaters. We used to skate in a parking garage below the old Grand Central Bowling Alley: no pads, no helmets, beer in hand.

Way back when, how did you choose to be a Heather?

The Heathers were and still are a motley bunch. I like to think of us as the leftovers of the league. The Guns and Rollers were the only clear established team on the league: they had their name, theme and players ready and organized first.

When the league finally had enough skaters to establish four solid teams, the Heartless Heathers were born. When we were deciding on a name. we wanted something intimidating and mean. We thought that the bitchy Heathers characters from that movie "Heathers" sounded ruthless, just what we were looking for. Our cold, icy theme was inspired by the Ice Queen on the Candyland boardgame: we thought she looked really cool. Vominatrix, Sol Train, Fire Crotch, Sump Pump, TeaKillya and myself played in the first Heartless Heathers game and we are still rollin'.

How long have you been skating on quads?

As a kid I went to the usual roller skating birthday party, that’s the extent of my past on quads. A chain of serendipitous events happened right before I joined RCR. A visiting friend from out of town gave me a pair of roller skates, then I saw the Starlight Express at the Schnitz (rollerskating Broadway show) and then I caught the Mercury ad soliciting skaters, I knew I had to go check it out.

You were known in season one as half of a legendary "wall" you regularly formed with Sol Train. I have a little video clip in which you and Sol were blocking and I can hear my friend Kurt exclaiming, "D-Day and Sol Train are like a wall! You can't get past them!" It was true, and there was that famous photo by Pasha of "The Iron Curtain." Obviously things have evolved since then, and the Heathers aren't so role-bound, and each player is a lot more versatile. What are your memories of back then versus your impressions of the way the Heathers are now?

I love the infamous "iron curtain" with my evil twin sister, Sol Train! We miss doing that together but this team doesn’t really need it anymore, our team has become so solid and well-rounded. Everybody makes great walls and skates a solid defense. Sol and I tend to get separated in lineups now but, we still get mistaken for each other on the track sometimes. This past year we have brought up a lot of new players, more people get play time which helps them improve and now we have a ton of jammers to rotate in our lineups. I think our team is stacked. Ha Ha- in more than one way.

You used to wear some below-the-knee fur leggings. Or were they? What were they? (We were all impressed).

Ahhhhh. My beloved furry booties! For my old uniform I was going for an icy, tundra, clan of the cave bear look. I might bust them out again…depends on how cold the Ice Box gets!

Do you have any opinion on the latest rule-set (WFTDA 3.0) and how it has changed the game? How has it changed your game?

The rules are constantly changing. Adjusting to new ones can be frustrating but this new era of derby is still very young and I feel like we are all getting through the kinks together. For me it's important that I don’t get hung up on a new rule and how consistently its enforced by refs, for example if it seems like a ref is calling it loose for some players and not for others, it's annoying but if I freak out about it I can lose focus.

Did you grow up around here? If not, where, and how did you get here?

I grew up in central California and lived in the mountains and the north bay area. I moved up here about 6 years ago when my Mister went back to school. We never left. Portland is a gem.

What are you occupied with outside of derby?

Well, it's not really outside of derby but I am one of the coaches for the Rosebuds, RCR’s jr roller derby. In my day job, I'm a social worker, mostly helping homeless people. When I have the time I like to grow stuff, make things, tramp around the woods, enjoy music and play with friends.

How did you choose your derby name?

An old teammate, Frostbite suggested D-Day. I had recently watched Animal House, in that movie D-Day is this goofy, quiet guy who rides around on his moterbike recklessly mowing over everything and destroying the house. I wanted to be like him in a pack.

Also the historic roots of such a bloody, infamous day seemed inline with the fear I wanted to instill in my opponents. Plus, I'm a peacenik so it's funny. The name just fit for so many reasons.

You have competed with the Wheels of Justice in national bouts. In what ways does national-level play differ from intra-league play?

Intra-league play is fun because you develop rivalries with others, watch skaters and teams develop their game over time, and you see loyal fans for all the teams cheering. It's intimate and it feels like a big fat family feud.

Playing against a team in another city is different in that you don’t know what to expect. You will hear about those larger than life superstars in the rumor mill but sometimes it's inaccurate or exaggerated. The reality is that most everybody on high-ranked league travel-teams are good players. What I really like are the surprises, who is the hot head on their team? Who is the bruiser, the rodeo clown, the sly one? It's always a surprise. You are not underestimating or overestimating another skater.

Interview with a Heather: Monacle Debacle

photo by Sharkey.

Skater Name: Monacle Debacle
Age: 28
Neighborhood: NE
Beverage of choice: Hot Toddy
Heartless Heather since 2009

CORONER: It has been really fun watching you skate in your initial scrimmages and bouts here. Somebody told me that you were a transfer skater. Where did you skate before you came to Portland?

MONACLE DEBACLE: Thanks! I started skating in Savannah, GA when the Derby Devils were forming three and a half years ago. I was relatively new to town and was craving outlets to meet people. A flyer for derby crossed my path and I didn't hesitate. I wanted to play. It took me a month to utter more than a word to another player, but I showed up every practice three nights a week for three years.

How have you seen the game change during your time, and how has it changed you?

Good lord, I didn't even know the rules for the first two years that I played. I didn't know how to stop, really, until this summer. For me, derby has changed most dramatically since I moved to Portland in July.

Coming from an incredibly small league where we barely had enough skaters to bout, I have only recently been aware of its true, majestic influence on more than myself.

How do you like being a Heather so far?

The Heathers persona is an ice Queen, but every single player on our roster has heart. This is what drew me here. Hell, yes, I want to win, but I want to do it with a love of the sport and for each other.

What's your preference - jamming or being in the pack?

I am really enjoying being in the pack. Jamming can be done with a singular focus on your own skills. I spent years improving my footwork and agility simply because it's what got me through a pack. There was no structure to it. Now I'm learning to use my teammates, to be aware of more than myself and execute strategy.

Have you ever felt that you've reached a plateau in your game? How did you overcome it?

My breakthrough in derby came from going on a 5 week bicycle tour through Chile with friends. I came back from climbing the Andes Mountains and could finally skate after trying to for almost a year with the Devils. My body responded and I was able MOVE.

How did you choose your derby name?

There's something about the word "monocle." It instantly provides mystery rounded out by class. I will kill you, but you will enjoy me doing it.

What occupies your time outside of roller derby?

I always have a project. I sell bicycle caps online and I'm currently getting my craft room together for expanded sewing. Derby always seeps in - I'm sewing some helmet covers for the Breakneck Betties for the season opener on January 16. I like finding new bicycle routes in this lane-filled city, and exploring new recipes in a warm kitchen.

What is your biggest challenge on and off the track?

I am a type I diabetic. Each day I have to make time for the art of managing my insulin intake, maintaining a good diet and exercising. Bouts are particularly difficult for me because I get nervous and it messes with my blood sugar level. It's hard to skate when your body is revolting against you. Ultimately, though, when the first whistle blasts, I tuck my insulin pump into my knee pad and hope for the best.

Congratulations on being selected for the AoA. That's a hell of a roster. Do the Axles have any bouts before Miami on January 30? What's it like working with that team, as opposed to working with the Heathers?

No bouts before Miami. I started practicing with AoA a month before we played Terminal City in early December. The drive and focus that was present blew me away. It's such an excellent mishmash of home team players with one thing in common: our commitment to this sport. Travel team is serious. You get better, or you go home.

What's your favorite thing about derby?

Learning something new, every practice. EVERY practice.

Your teammates really speak highly of you. Do you have a favorite Heather?

Favorite Heather, yikes. I would have to say Scratcher in the Eye. When I came to Portland for a week to solidify my random decision to move here, I stopped in on a travel team practice at the hangar. As an English nerd, her name stuck out to me. She's a smart jammer and blocker that has real foresight in a pack. Since becoming a Heather, I can add that she is a confident leader and has encouraged me since day one.

What are your big goals on the Heathers, in the RCR, and in the WFTDA?

The Heathers have recently drafted the most new players of all of the home teams in the league. There is a lot of rebuilding to do. This will take time and teamwork and I am excited to be one piece of that foundation.

RCR is a tremendous resource. I aim to become a member that gives more than they take. I'm adopting a rosebud in January. I'm so excited.

As for WFTDA, I want to go to Nationals. I would love to be with Rose City and the Wheels of Justice when we win.

Scratcher in the Eye, the Cliffs Notes Edition

Skater Name: Scratcher in the Eye
Age: 31
Neighborhood: NoPo
Beverage of choice: Jamesons
Heartless Heather for 3 years

THE CORONER: Let's start where we always start: how did you get mixed up with the Rose City Rollers?

SCRATCHER: Sol Train. She is good friends with my father. My dad invited me to go out to drinks with Miss Sol. She told me how fun it was. It seemed the perfect mix of athleticism with violence. I've always been an athlete. I played soccer from age 5 – 18. I could have played in college but decided an education was more important. Prior to roller derby I had been training and performing on the trapeze.

When Sol Train first told me about derby, the RCR dues were $40 a month, and at that point there was no way I could afford it. I had just moved back to Portland and didn't have a job yet. A couple months later I got my first pair of skates and went to Oaks to give it a try. I was hooked immediately.

Did you skate a lot growing up? What's your skating history?

As any child of the 80's I did go to the roller rink on the weekends for fun. The roller rink is still around, Golden Skate in Vancouver, Washington. I didn't go there very often but I had fun when I did. My favorite part of the night would be staying out on the rink for the fast skate. I would go as fast as I could to the "(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (to Party!)".

You put forth a heroic effort in the championship bout against the Breakneck Betties, then ended up getting brutally tackled. What's it like having all 800 pounds of Ava Skatrix come crashing down on you?

It was unfortunate. I tore my MCL. As I was falling I was thinking get up quick then I felt someone on me and I thought to pull my knees in but it was too late. I heard a loud pop. It didn't even hurt that bad, but I knew it was bad. All that was flashing through my mind was there goes my chance to play at regionals and nationals for WoJ.

If you saw my face, it wasn't screaming F%&K out of pain, it was frustration cause I knew I wasn't going to get to continue on to play at the national level. It was disappointing to have all the hard work I put into training be useless and my dreams disappear. I'm still recovering. I am back on skates but it will be a few more months before I can play like I used to.

The local season is so competitive and cut-throat at times, yet you have skated alongside your RCR opponents on both the Axles of Annihilation and the Wheels of Justice. Have you ever found it difficult to put old rivalries or animosities aside and roll with a traveling team with former enemies? Do you think that maybe rabid Heathers fans overestimate the intra-league animosity?

I don't have enemies,... that I know of. There are individuals that I don't necessarily get along with. These are people I probably wouldn't get along with out side of derby or anywhere. These people are few and far between. For the most part I can let things go in order to accomplish what is more important (WINNING). One thing I think I've learned is that I can't change people and I'm not responsible for their behavior. This helps me to appreciate the positive things in people and let the negative roll off.

How has your team evolved since those early days, and how has your own game evolved?

Wow,... so much has changed in the 3, almost 4 years, I've been playing derby. For the first 4 months I didn't even know there was an out-of-bounds. I remember the first bout I played. It was the first season and the second bout we played against the GnR. We thought we didn't have chance to beat them. I played in 4 jams and in my first jam I remember riding Death Trish out into the audience. I thought I was so cool. It wasn't until after the bout that someone explained to me that I was hitting out of bounds.

For the first 2 years of derby I was known for playing kinda dirty. I always figured I didn't have that much skill so I had to make up for it with tenacity. Now I play a lot more cleanly. I will take an intentional foul when it's necessary, but I don't dive bomb people any more.

As a whole, derby requires a lot more strategy than it did when I started. It used to be every player out for themselves. Now we have to work more as a team. The 20-foot rule changed everything. We do a lot more pack drills and specific plays for specific scenarios. Also as players have gotten better and there is less of a divide in play level between players; we can trust each other more. There is so much more teamwork.

Did you grow up around here? If not, where, and how did you get here?

I grew up here. My mom and step-dad live in Vancouver, Wa. My dad and step-mom live in Portland. I spent many a night at the X-Ray Cafe and the old La Luna listening to local bands. After high school I went to Seattle to go to college. After college I moved to Boston for 4 years. Some where in there I also backpacked hitch-hiked and train-hopped around the country, Europe, and Latin America.

What are you occupied with outside of derby?

Right now I'm in grad school at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine working on my masters degree. I'm studying to be an acupuncturist, and herbalist. It is a challenging program and its hard to balance between it and derby.

I also love to ride my bike. Whenever I'm on break from school and derby I try to take a bike touring trip. I road to Ashland this summer and I took another trip to Coos Bay. I like traveling by myself. I don't have to wait for anyone and I can go my own pace. It gives me time to catch up on my thoughts.

Before starting school I worked in construction and landscaping.

How did you choose your derby name? Do you have a special fondness for JD Salinger?

Catcher in the Rye was my favorite book when I was 13. I can't say that I really love it now. Holden Caufield is really a bit immature and spoiled, if you ask me, though I certainly could identify with his angst when I was a kid. Mainly I choose it cause I thought it was funny and I could use a lot of references from the book to build a character.

Scratcher's favorite move is Holdin'. Then there is that photo of me throwing children off the cliff. The catcher in the rye is what Caufield wanted to be when he grew up. To catch children playing in the rye. Instead of catching children I toss em'.

How do you find time for it all?

I don't. Well I do but sometimes things slip through the cracks. Like most people in derby, I live a pretty busy life. I'm pretty good at time management and I fit everything in a tight schedule. An average week day for me is get up at 5:30 am and bike 10 miles to school. After school I bike home another 10 miles then study for three hours take a 20 min nap and go to practice. I skate for 2-3 hrs. Then I come home and cook food for dinner and lunch the next day and study for another hour. I go to sleep some where around midnight.

I spend the weekends trying to catch up on sleep and school work. I pretty much have one speed and its full boar until I hit a wall and have to take a break. Sometimes that break is 2 weeks of sleeping 14 hours a night and skipping practice.


In what ways does national-level play differ from intra-league play?

It's different. There is less show and more athleticism. At our home bouts we get to play around and perform for the crowd. When your competing nationally you don't have time to show off, nor is it worth it. There aren't as many individuals on a team that stand out cause there are so many good players. In general, it's harder, tougher, and faster, with better strategy.

What are you looking forward to in 2009, inside or outside of derby?

I want to go to nationals. I don't want to watch, I want to play. It's pretty much my main goal in life. Then I can retire and go back to the trapeze. It's a much healthier sport.

I also want to bike tour Cuba. One can bike the whole island in 3 weeks. I was going to do it this Christmas but the up coming Texecutioners bout got in the way. Hopefully next Christmas I can spend biking, camping on the beach and drinking mojitos.

What are you looking forward to in that match-up against the Texecutioners this weekend?

I'm a bit nervous. I'm not in quite the shape I was when I got injured. I'm excited to skate against the mothers of our sport but I wish I was at full capacity. I am looking forward to learning and getting my ass kicked. Unfortunately it's the weekend before my finals so I'm just flying in skating and flying back out. No partying or sight seeing for Scratcher. Just studying on the plane and getting beat up.

Your family were big derby supporters from the get-go. Are they still big fans? Do they still get out there and support you?

My parents love derby. They have been super-supportive. I think its the first thing I've done in my adult life that they were both proud of. I've been such a radical, anarchist, krusty, punk/hippy for so long that they see my participation in derby as me becoming more normal. derby is a lot safer than organizing protests and getting arrested for civil disobedience; plus I bathe more. Heck I'm even off the no-fly list now.

You can definitely see my parents at the bouts. They are always jumping up and screaming. I think my mom has been told to sit down multiple times. Clearly she hasn't been sitting in the Ice Box. She has season tickets and is usually in the VIP section. You can identify her by her Mama Scratch hoodie. My dad sits on corner two and yells at the refs. He used to host a tailgate party out of his motor home in the parking lot before every bout but Expo nixed it. I imagine we might see it return next season at the Hangar.

Is there anything you would like derby fans to know that you think we might be oblivious to?

I think the most amazing thing to me is that WFTDA is probably the largest women's cooperative in the world. Member leagues of the national association cannot be privately owned but must be skater owned. Its a great structure for businesses and organizations. It allows all of us to have a voice in the development of the sport.

An example of how awesome our national organization is is the development of our own insurance company. Before we were forced to pay to an insurance company to be able to play, and that gave us a deductible of $10,000. Here we are putting our health on the line, and our insurance deductible is $10,000. The ladies of derby saw how ridiculous it was and started their own insurance company. Now I pay less for insurance and my deductible is 3,000. Its a huge difference.

Cadaver Pre-Funk @ WFKC

Just a reminder, as usual a number of us will be meeting at the World Famous Kenton Club before the bout this Saturday - let's say, around 3ish.

In addition to their long history of supporting our beloved Heathers - and even longer history with roller derby - the WFKC has stunningly cheap drinks, great BBQ, and is only a quick MAX ride away from the Expo Center, so you can enjoy an adult beverage without the worry of driving - or paying for parking at the Expo.

Hope to see you all there!

Meet the Cadaver: MercGirl

Cadaver Name: MercGirl
Age: 39 and 10/12ths
Neighborhood: Felony Flats
Beverage of Choice: Metro Mint Chocolate Mint Water
Misc: Driver of the coolest big pink car ever. Cubicle slave M-F.
Cadaver for 2 Years

Q.You actually tried out for Roller Derby way back when it was starting, didn't you? What are your memories of all that, and what derailed your plans?

I actually planned to try out last winter. I had wanted to try out since the very beginning and it took me that long to work up the guts to do it. I was unemployed last winter and spent several days a week skating at Oaks getting ready to try out.

When the January pre-tryout clinic rolled around, I felt pretty good about my basic skating skills and endurance. I showed up at the hanger, nervous as HELL with all the proper gear. I managed to do about two laps around the track before I fell hard on my ass. I hurt BAD. I got up fast and refused to show any reaction to the pain. I kept skating through the entire clinic (about 2 hours) learning to fall and stuff. When it was nearly over I told Judge Mental what had happened. I was hurting bad by that point. She advised that I take some time off, ice my butt and possibly see a doctor.

I drove home in excruciating pain. My husband was not too happy with the state of me when I got home and tried to get me to take my sorry ass to the hospital. I refused to go, of course. (I am an idiot.) I did see my doctor later and she confirmed that my tail bone was cracked and the only thing to do was let it heal and sit on a donut pillow. I had already had to have fluid drained off my knee from falling down at Oaks one too many times, my back is not the greatest, now my butt was broken. I was starting to get the idea that maybe I was a better Cadaver than skater.

It was hard to accept at first, but I am okay with it now. I have hopes of helping Nurse Ratchet (my neighbor) decorate for the Championship Bout and make signs. I still have to sit on the donut pillow in the Ice Box (the bleachers suck.) I made a stylish skull print cover for it.

Q.How did you start as a Heathers fan, and what keeps you coming back to the Ice Box?

I am a Heather, it was a given at first, but I stay because I LOVE the team. Everyone Heather I have met has been wonderful, beautiful and gracious. I am enamored with each and every one of them.

Q. Do you have any favorite moments from bouts past?

Most recently it was seeing the Heathers come back and beat G-n-R at the last bout. That new rule was maddening and I was really sweating that score first half.

Q.Which Heather do you revere most, and why?

Got to be Goodie. We are a couple of months apart in age and she was my major inspiration for finally trying to try out. We seem to have many things in common. Oh, and holy hell can that woman skate.

Q.You and your daughter Hannah (bassist for Portland's own Monster-Sized Monsters), usually attend pretty well decked out in Heathers colors and gear. And you do a lot of skating together. Does Hannah have a derby future?

We do plan our derby outfits. Gotta sport the team colors. I own more blue items now than I have ever in my lifetime. Sadly Hannah will not be at the Championship bout with me, her band is going on tour. I will be lost with out her, but I will send her text updates of the score. We do skate together quite often. Not as much as we would like. Life gets in the way of fun. She is actually working at Oaks this summer as a ride operator.

Hannah is determined to try out as soon as she is old enough. She just turned 19. The Rosebuds starting this year kinda bummed her out because she is too old for them and too your for RCR. Only 2 more years.

Q.You're also a big High Rollers fan. How do you cope with the inevitable inner turmoil when the Heathers and the High Rollers face one another?

I stress, I toss, I turn. I just have to know that the HRMF know that I love them and deal with the inner turmoil. I own a LOT of green too.

Q. Any words of wisdom or inspiration for the Heathers in the run-up to their epic championship battle with the Breakneck Betties?

Kick their prissy asses.

Sol Train: The Interview

photo by Sharkey

Skater Name: Sol Train
Age: 36
Neighborhood: Alberta/King
Beverage of choice: Makers on the rocks with an IPA back
Heartless Heather since: Inception


CORONER: You do whitewater kayaking and rafting, you piloted a giant roller-skate off a ramp into the Willamette River, and you've been a major figure in Portland and national roller derby for years. When did you get your start as an adrenaline junky, and how has it developed through the years?

SOL TRAIN: I came by this honestly. I have been skiing since age 8. I had my first ambulance ride off the Mountain at 11 (hot doggin' some huge mogul run). I have always been into anything with wheels or water and making crazy stuff.

A lot of people I've talked to said that you got them into derby. Who got you into derby in the first place?

Megahurtz recruited me back when you'd see a big girl in a bar and try to convince them to join. We needed numbers.

Hurtz came by my place for some late after hours party and saw my skates sitting in the foyer. She asked if I skated, I replied "oh, yeah, all the time." I usually just cruised around the neighborhood. (which was quite a sight at the time; Rollerbladers would stop their tricks and hollar; "rollerSKATE!", ha) Anyway, I told Megahurtz to feel free to put on my skates and skate around the house. "I do it all the time". I have a natural little oval track in my house. She asked me to call her to skate sometime and I did. My first practice I didnt even realize it was roller derby. When she instructed me to bring all my pads and a helmet, I thought she was pretty conservative, or maybe thought I couldn't skate. So I rolled in with my construction and kayak pads and helmet. And as luck would have it, it was a low water year, meaning I was looking for something to do since there wasn't much kayaking or skiing.

Did you skate much as a kid?

Are you kidding? The coolest thing ever was Olivia Newton John and Xanadu. I went to Skateland every saturday. My sister and I made a track in our basement which had a 4 foot platform step you had to jump every lap! I even started derby on my Grandma's skates.

Did you grow up around here?

Nope. Grew up in Minneapolis. But I have lived here longer than anywhere else.

How long have you been Sol Train?

Not long before I started derby, say 8 months, a friend of mine confided that he and my kayaking buddies had been calling me sol train on all the videos. And since they were about to show the video on the big screen, and I would no doubt be there, they had to confess and asked if I was mad. I laughed. I told them no, and in fact I had just started a "soul train" at the bar the week before. When I came to derby, I just went with the nickname.

If I'm not mistaken, you've been on both the Heartless Heathers and the Wheels of Justice from the get-go. What's your take on the differences between intra-league and national level competition?

The Heathers are like the people I would call from the pokey; family. The Wheels of Justice is pure performance. A different reliance. More structure. Miss it though :)

What are some of the most memorable bouts of your career?

By far the most memorable bout for me was a travel team bout in 2006, I think it was against Sin City. I was jamming and doing pretty well, the crowd was on fire and began chanting my name; seriously like 3000 people. Holy crap. I didn't even have any friends in the audience.

Playing Oly in feb 09 was also pretty memorable. So ridiculously hardcore and the venue was so amazingly disgusting. It was almost renegade style. A ceiling tile even fell on Bitchin Camaro's head!

And of course, the first season's championship. We won. A rags to riches kinda story. We started with eight skaters. We trained super hard and won. Vom cried. It was amazingly emotional.

Now that your derby wife has moved on, are you heartbroken of are you playing the field?

Vom is and will always be my wife. :) We are still close and I miss seeing her so often. That said, I think we have always had an open relationship, ha.

Do you prefer jamming or being in the pack?

Hmmm....so difficult. The super ham in me love to jam. really. But the serious get it done part loves loves loves to frustrate, intimidate and get in people's heads as you can really only do as a blocker. It is just so much subtler believe it or not. Everyone notices the jammer. And honestly, I think I am a better blocker than a jammer.

What is your non-derby life?

I have my own business; Sol Creations. I do custom metal design and fabrication. In my free time (ha) I work on my house, kayak and ski mostly.

You have always been a big fan favorite - you even won the fan favorite trophy the first season. Does it creep you out a bit when fans see you on the street and start bowing down to you?

Well, it can be a little weird and gets a bit awkward when I am say on a date....try explaining that without coming across as a freak, ha. Although, when I got wind of "the church of sol train's ass", I was taken aback for a second, then cracked up. I have a pretty good sense of humor about all of it, I have to especially when my buddies witness it. They like to make sure I never get a big head.

Any opinions on how 2010 is looking for the Heathers?

This is a growing year for us. We have lots of young talent. We have not had much turnover until now, so need to make sure everyone is on the same page. No more referencing some obscure strategy from 2006. "Plan D!" It is just the beginning of the season though!

What should Cadavers keep in mind when they come to cheer on the Heathers this year?

First and foremost that we like it loud and proud! I am really looking to see the ridiculousness come back to the Rose City. I personally think we have gotten a bit too serious.. so lets turn it up! Love Always to the Cadavers! oooh, I got a chill...

Meet the Cadaver: Kanna

cadaver name: Kanna
age: 43 going on 32
neighborhood: SE a couple miles from the hangar
beverage of choice: shots of Bushmills or a good room temperature stout
Heathers fan for 2 years and counting
location: Always sitting on the jam line


CORONER: How did you get started going to Portland Roller Derby?

Kanna: There was a front page article in the Oregonian’s entertainment section back in February 2006 that talked about a local women’s roller derby league. I remember watching roller derby as a kid so when I first read about a team in Portland I was pretty excited and wanted to check it out. The story talked about a rag-tag group of diverse women who had come together to revamp roller derby. How could I not be interested?

My first bout wasn’t until the final match of the 2006 season. I went with my buddy George and we had an absolute blast; there were times I felt as if I was on a psychedelic acid trip. Walking back to the car that night we vowed that we could easily be season ticket holders if ONLY they sold season tickets. Voila, the season ticket program was launched the following year and both George and I have been season ticket holders ever since. In fact, this year, we are season ticket holders #1 and #2. Something I’m very dorkingly proud of!

Now I’m totally addicted to derby. Whereas in the 80s and 90s I was a Deadhead traveling around the west coast and the U.S. experiencing as much music as I could I’ve now transitioned into being a Derbyhead. I can be found down at the hanger on scrimmage nights watching the gals practice and I plan on being in Houston to watch the Wheels of Justice skate in the Western Regionals in October. In fact, I enjoy derby so much that my family thinks I’m downright crazy but I really don’t care!

You're a great fan, and that you and your man bust ass as volunteers for the team. Why did you become a Heathers fan and what keeps you coming back to for the team?

Why did I become a Heather’s fan? They are freaking Heartless and we hate the Betties! My man and I love the Heathers and we have been faithful fans from the very beginning. It was just luck that George and I sat in the Ice Box for our first bout and I don’t know if there was one thing that I found fascinating with the Heathers; they are too multi-faceted to have just one single attraction, you know?

The lovely WMC, wicked Nurse Ratched and some Heather cheerleaders were pumping up the cadavers in the crowd and the pre-bout energy was infectious. Then the bout began! Women with amazing skating prowess had names such as Vominatrix, Goodie Two-Skates, Sol Train, Slaybia Majora, Teqkillya and Scratcher in the Eye, with crazy personalities that matched their athletic intensity. How could I not be attracted to such an awesome team? The fan base, the support crew and the skaters themselves are all a bunch of freaks and I fit into that dysfunctionality perfectly.

Now, what’s this volunteer thing you are asking me about? Wrench from the Guns and Rollers sold my man George and I these ticket packages for "Roller Derby Fantasy Camp" (RDFC) that takes place the Friday before each bout. We each gave Wrench $100.00 because she told us if we sign up together we can save $50 per person and she gave us promises of "rubbing elbows with roller girls" and maybe getting a free beer or two if there’s any left over at the end of the day. What a farce!

Seriously though, George and I volunteer because we simply want to give back to the derby community by showing our appreciation for all that the Rose City Rollers organization does. We had no idea about the magnitude of energy that goes into each and every bout set up/tear down coupled with the commitment and dedication of all the skaters and the entire support crew; so why not volunteer some of our time to help the organization that we love flourish? I’ve also started to volunteer in other aspects other then just bout set up. This past spring I started to sit on the events committee, I’m helping out with the Northwest Knock Down after party committee and recently joined the new merch committee.

And who is this guy George? He’s a great guy who’s my "man" in derby speak only. I have known George for over ten years and we decided last year to mimic the derby girls who take on derby wives and become "derby hitched" ourselves. I guess it was at Derby Days at Oaks Park last year when George and I decided to make that "commitment" and since then he’s been my derby hubby. He’s the best. Love ya hubby!

Do you have any favorite moments from bouts past?

Favorite moments are hard to chronicle on paper. There are many from the past two years but a few do need mentioning. I believe a lot of my favorite moments are more gestaltian (if I can make up a word) then a specific jam or block from a bout. For example, I enjoy the plethora of costumes worn by both Vominatrix and Goodie Two-Skates whose derby personalities are expressed through fashion statements. I have also had a lot of fun traveling up to Washington to watch Axels of Annihilation play at the Rust Riot tournament and recently against Jet City in Lynnwood. There’s something about being in "enemy territory" and cheering for the out of town underdogs.

If I must pick a specific bout moment, I would say the last bout between the High Rollers and the Betties was by far one of the most exciting roller derby matches I have ever watched. The last jam between Licker-N-Split and Rhea DeRange was intense with the outcome of the bout resting on this one last jam. I think every derby fan in attendance had to have loved that moment.

Describe some favorite non-bout moments with the Heathers.

There are many favorite moments; some I can remember and some I am reminded of!
I think my first non-bout activity was Derby Days last year at Oaks Park. Being a previous beer snob, Derby Days was my inauguration into consuming massive amounts of PBR. One of my fondest memories that day was watching my plastered hubby George try to hit the target on the dunk tank whenever a Heather took a seat in the tank.

Speaking of George, the Heathers’ Anti-Valentine’s Day party 2008 was another fine time, or what I can remember of the party. This time a little too much Dead Guy Pale Ale was consumed. . .but I do remember watching Viagrra pull George’s pants down at the spanking booth exposing his "tidy whities" and laughing hysterically while both Viagrra and Skyotica spanked the bad boy.

Some other fun moments that come to mind is a night drinking "tea" with Sol Train’s brother at Plan B. Ha Ha Hahaha, tea! The "Coup de Ebay" when George won Vominatrix’s silver bikini at a recent Wheels of Justice fundraiser. Or something as laid back as eating dinner with Goodie, Edie Disorder from the Betties and a couple other folks at Cha Cha Cha’s on Hawthorne.

Confess: do you have a favorite Heather? Many favorites? Who and why?

I have several favorite Heathers. The team is full of women with great character and skating skills. I already brought up Vominatrix and Goodie’s ability to change costumes and skater personalities but they are both great athletic skaters as well. Sol Train must also be mentioned to round out the Heathers’ triumvirate. Sol Train is just crazy fun to watch. I have too many favorites and too much to say about each of them. Cheesy but true. I do want to say quickly that I love watching Ringer, Viagrra and Scratcher jam; all have improved so much this year.

A recent addition to the Heathers Mobi-Wan Kenobi deserves a quick shout out though. I was happy to see the Heathers draft her earlier this year. George first met Mo last year at RDFC and I remember watching her skate as Fresh Meat and I’ve spoken to her a few times at RDFC too. Mo has unselfishly shaved her head twice this year for the sake of others - that says a lot about someone’s character in my book. I look forward to watching Mo and the other two newest Heathers - Ginger Binger and SheRex during the 2009 season.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have to offer to the Heathers as they prepare for their upcoming epic battle with the Breakneck Betties?

The Betties can be beaten. Snap their undefeated streak August 9 and take back the championship trophy! Stay focused and out of the penalty box. Be mentally strong and take each two minute jam as another opportunity to put those Betties in their place. . .SECOND PLACE.

I will lose my voice cheering you guys on and George is already working on signs to pass out to the crowd. I have even made a "death wager" that hinges on your victory. I have made a bet with a certain Bettie that the loser has to drink a shot of straight absinthe - that’s 140 proof alcohol people. That’s how much I love my Heartless Heathers. It’s very bitter and did I mention 140 proof? It’s really strong, as in corroding the esophagus strong. So, please selfishly, win so I can make the Bettie sprout hair on her chest when she takes that shot of unadulterated absinthe.

HEATHERS 08’
HEATHERS POR VIDA!!!!

A Few Words with Viaggra Falls

Viagrrra Falls, photo by Delusional Photography

VIAGGRA FALLS: I'm 33, Live in NE 1 bd apartment with my awesome Husky Terra, and kitty Sassy.
My beverage is Yerba Mate iced tea (don't drink alcohol)
Energy food of choice is Chocolate, wheat- free pasta, and sushi!
I've been on the Heartless Heathers for 3 years

CORONER: How did you get involved with the Rose City Rollers?

I had first heard about Roller Derby from Jeffrey Wonderful ("other" founder of league) and how they wanted to start a team up in Portland. I had performed with Jeffrey in the past with Portland Organic Wrestling (POW). It was this crazy, campy, artist, Punk-rock wrestling show that showed for about 4tyears that started at Satyricon. Its was sort of WWE meets GWAR, with grotesque stuff being sprayed onto the audience mixed in with crazy acrobatic wrestling moves all wrapped up into artsy skits. At the end of all shows I was mostly covered in Beer or sour milk. Good times.

Sure, Derby sounded fun, and had met a few girls already skating, but I figured I should wait 'til I had health insurance. I never gave it a second thought 'til I went to the very first exhibition in October 2005. OMG I had no idea what the hell was happening, but something tingled inside and I was hooked! I wanted to know how to get involved, where the practices were, the whole sha-bang! Although I didn't start showing at practices till about January and just got "thrown in". This was all before we actually started having Fresh Meat tryouts, and most of us just "heard" about it and showed up.

I think you were the first person I ever associated with Portland Roller Derby, through the salon you worked at. I remember waiting for a haircut and hearing you talk about roller derby, Fresh Meat, the Heathers, and all of that and being rapt with sideways attention. Then you got drafted to the Heathers. What year was that? When you got drafted, was that when you changed from "Space Case" to Viagrrra Falls? In other words, what's your derby history to date?

Awwwe yes, I was on Fresh Meat for about 7 months before I got drafted to HH, then that was a long time to be on FM. I will be honest, I was a total train wreck when I first started with RCR. I really didn't know how to skate that well, tripped over my own skates, and everyone around me would get tangled up in my skates or land on top of me when I would fall in front of them. Not a pretty sight.

I had fallen in love with HH after attending a few of the parties and really connected with the girls personalities and style. It was totally me. I went home right away and e-mailed the captain, Vominatrix at the time, and told her I definitely wanted to be a Heather and would stay on FM until then. I happen to go through 3 drafts w/o getting picked. Then in August of that year was Rollercon, Derby convention in Vegas. I decided to go for 10 days (never again that long in LV) but learned how to REALLY skate and play derby. Mostly I think it finally brought up my confidence. I came back improved 10x's better and many noticed. 2 months later in October 2006, I was drafted to the HH.

Oh the name...I wasn't really feeling "spacecase" and wanted something more raw and wanted more of a reaction. I had heard of the name from a fellow league mate, Axle Blows, and couldn't stop thinking about it. So when I went to Rollercon I needed a change because I knew my derby "career" was shifting. Viagrrra Falls! at first I thought it was going to be temporary but it fit me and stuck. I stay hard no matter what and keep going, and going, and going.....

Did you skate a lot growing up?

Nope not really, went to the skate rink like maybe 4 times when younger then roller bladed for like a year is all.

I have always been athletic. Snowboarding, Surfing, Backpacking, Yoga, you name it. Although never was good a games

You are so solid, stellar even, at each position now, and are a lynchpin for the Heathers. When and how did you really hit your stride as a skater?

Ummm, Well probably last year. I had been to many skate camps, Derby conventions, private lessons and it finally started paying off. I had been getting more skate time, in which boosted my confidence but I had problems with stage fright and would falter. I think there was one game at a very crucial point, that I had scored 20 points for the first time ever, and helped to bring the spirits up for my team. We happen to have won that bout and I gotten MVP for that game. Overall I realized that my team DID believe and trust me but I needed to trust myself and them. The rest of that year, playing on Travel Team had helped me improve my skills further.

This year has really been the key point of my play. I feel more confident and when so many of my teammates had become injured or burnt out I felt I had to step up.

The Season's coming to a head. What is your perspective on what has transpired so far between the four teams, and what's ahead?

Wow, how much more balanced our level of intra-league play has become.

I'm really exited for the High Rollers to bring it out! They have always had great players but have been missing something.

What do you most look forward to doing when the season is over?

My season is not done yet. I do have a game in July with AoA playing the Key Areana in Seattle. Hopefully I will get a break after that. Then, OMG, surfing, camping, spending time with my "other" friends, hanging out with my dog...Im sure I can fill my time up!

Did you grow up around here? If not, where, and how did you get here?

I moved from Salt Lake City Utah, where I had been living for 10 years. Before that I was an Army Brat (DAD In the Army) and moved every 2-4 years since birth.

What are you occupied with outside of derby?

I've been a Hair artist for 12 years working full time at Salon & Spa Bliss.

Try to get in some yoga, weight training, Surfing, camping, snowboarding, Recovery, writing, meditation, walking the pooch, trying to find time for friends and family.

You've been busy with the league for so long - how do you keep your energy level up for both derby and life?

Wow its hard. Unmedicated hyper-mania. ;-} I do the best I can but sometimes I "crash and burn" and need to take a few days off.

Anything else fans and other skaters should know about flat-track roller derby, the Heathers, you?

Thanks!

Tea Time with Vominatrix

Skater Name: Vominatrix
Age: 24
Neighborhood: NE
Beverage of choice: Whiskey, grape juice, or cheap champagne
Heartless Heather since day 1.

CORONER: I read that great old article from the Oregonian about the genesis of the league this morning. The writer describes you over the laptop with your teammates trying to come up with a team name.

How did the name "Heartless Heathers" finally come into being?

VOMINATRIX: We had lists and lists of names.

We had a general idea but nothing was really working for us as far as names go. Finally Bitchen Camaro (yes she was a Heather once upon a time) came up with Heartless Heathers. We all loved the movie and knew that the Heathers were the most Heartless bitches out there so we went with it. It has developed a lot over the years, though.

What started your illustrious career in roller derby?

I read a tiny little ad on the back page of the Mercury. I had just moved to town and didn't have much else to do. Plus they promised me free skates, I might not have gotten those but it was still worth it.

It seems as though you live on your roller skates nowadays. What's your skating history?

I used to sneak to the roller rink with my friends when I was about 10 yrs. old, my Mom didn't let me go to late night skate. But I hadn't skated since then. It took a while for it all to come back.

Did you grow up around here?

No I grew up in Iowa. Moved here 4 years ago, not really sure why or how but it was a good decision I know that.

You were quite skilled at all positions from early on in season one, but you were relied on quite a bit as a jammer. As the Heathers' jamming bench has deepened, how have you diversified your skills to help your team most?

I love playing all positions and I feel that by being able to do so I am stronger for my team. I really have grown into loving pivoting which is mostly what I do for Wheels of Justice. I like that the Heathers let me mix it up a bit more. I would like to see more people bouncing off of me when I hit them instead of me bouncing off of them . . . guess I should go eat some cheeseburgers, huh?

How is national play (with Portland's traveling all-star team the Wheels of Justice) different from playing local teams?

It is nice to play different skill levels, to play people that you know nothing about when you hit the track. You don't know who hits the hardest who is the best jammer, you have to figure it out as the game happens and I love that.

How did you come about your derby name?

It was suppose to be for a friend, actually, and then everyone just started calling me Vominatrix - it just sort of stuck. Check out the movie Vomitorium it was part of my inspiration.

What do you think about the new rules? Are you playing any differently?

It has been interesting switching to the new rules. It is a different game now, jammers are in the box much more then blockers it seems and minors are almost nonexistent, it's a lot of majors these days. I think my biggest struggle is working with different interpretations of the rules some I don't always agree with but you have to learn to skate with the way a game is being called.

What is your non-derby life?

I try to take photos as much as I can, I am working on going to school next year (hopefully), and I just try to get out and enjoy the summer while it is still here.

How do you find time for it all?

Haha, I don't but somehow it all works out. I have my weeks where I freak out and feel like I can't do it all but then I think about not doing it all and how bored I would be.

What should fans keep in mind as they watch the Heathers take on the Betties in the championship bout?

Stay Loud and Stay Proud. We are going to need all of your support for this one. No matter what is happening just stick with us and remember that the louder you scream the harder we skate.

Meet the Cadaver: JeLLyPiG

cadaver name JeLLyPiG
age: 44
neighborhood: Hawthorne
beverage of choice: Anything priced below $5.26 a glass…and alcoholic
Heathers fan for: 2+ years


Q. How did you get started going to Portland Roller Derby?

I actually don’t remember how I heard about the Rose City Rollers, only that they had already had one bout and that I already missed it. I do remember telling my then fiancée, “there is Roller Derby in town and we’re going!” She promptly replied with a look of hesitation and the long wind-up response “Mmm…yeah…that kind of sounds like a boy’s night out…doesn’t it?” Sounds good…but I didn’t really have any “boys” to night with. So, some emails, voicemails and a few text messages later I had enough half-assed commitments to go out and buy four tickets knowing that I would fill the seats.

So the four of us, rapidly approaching or already in the midst of middle age, jaded cynics assembled, picked a DD (a Designated Driver… not a Derby Drunk) and headed out to the Expo Center for some roller derby action. I remember walking into “Season 1 Bout 2” thinking this is the shit! All of us had goofy grins, the spark of excitement in our eyes and that whole “this is cool” head bobbing thing. Beers were in order!

That first bout was cool because I had no allegiances, didn’t know anyone connected to derby, it was all fresh for me and I could just sit back and take it all in and I did, along with about 80 bucks in beer (I scored the ticket so I wasn’t in the drawing for the DD prize).

The basic rules of the game I understood, having watched roller derby on TV as a kid and the two odd bouts I saw with some random traveling teams at the Junior High Gym in my hometown of Nowhere Oregon back in the early 70’s. This new derby was different, it seemed more real to me and the event itself had some crazy energy and I was getting hooked. One of the guys asked if they had season tickets and all us were talking about what blast it was to watch and how we would definitely be going to all the bouts.

I remember thinking and then telling everyone “It’s the most Punk Rock thing I have been a part of in years”. And there is the key to my addiction, I saw and still see myself as being a part of “it”. From that point forward it was all bout derby for me.

Of that original foursome, I was the only one to make going to every bout a near reality. Oh they hit the odd bout here and there, usually with me…since I have two season tickets they are stuck as the designated driver. Sucks to be them!

Q. Why did you become a Heathers fan and what keeps you coming back to the Ice Box?

Since I had no real connections to the league beyond the love of the game when it started, no friends, friends of friends or some coworker’s sister playing on a team, I spent the first few bouts just watching and cheering randomly for crushing blocks and various rallying jammers. Eventually there were a few players I really enjoyed watching and some were Heathers. The lynchpin in my choice of teams was when Goodie Two Skates finally joined the roster.

I took major crap from my teenage daughter, a part time GnR fan, for “jumping on the winning team bandwagon” and in ’06 that argument could be made, but it's bollocks. The Heathers had and still have not only my top three all time favorite RCR players but a host of other wickedly talented players, win or lose. So now I would bleed Heathers blue if I even had a heart.

As for chillin' in the Ice Box, shit I don’t even sit there. I have this elaborate theory about the best viewing spot for big moves through the pack and where the best blocking crashes happen. Though the Ice Box is the coolest seat in the house (especially on those hot May bout nights) I need to watch the damn game AND have easy access to the beer trailers.

Q. Did you make those "Posse" graphics that slide across your MySpace page? Whose posse are you in? Who are your top Heathers and why?

Am I under oath? Um…those are scans of stickers that I…aw…”found” yeah found, on the rough and tumble streets of East Portland. A nice clean cut guy like me would have nothing to do with the nefarious Derby Drunks art crimes through out this fine city of roses. It is just a crazy coincidence that the first three “Posse” stickers happen to be not only my favorite Heathers, but my all time favourite Rose City Rollers. (I spelled it all Canadian that last time in case any Terminal City Roller Girls read this, eh?).

Seriously, Goodie Two Skates (G2S), Vominatrix and Sol Train are a pleasure to watch every bout. “Why?” Well, they are all quite different players in execution and style but with the Star, the Stripe or in the pack, they can be effective in all the positions. They are the treasured utility players of the sport, hard working, consistent and entertaining.

Goodie is not afraid to be a goofball and a hardass usually within the same jam. You can tell she is having fun. I love her arm moves, when she noses in front of the some skater she has been jockeying for position with she gets an inch of edge and sticks her arms out like she is “just stretching out…no foul here”. Or her “It’s the Cops!” move, when she is deep in the pack and bearing down on a skater, close to making contact from behind, her arms go straight up, she glances at the refs and attempts to look innocent. She says she’s “In it for Grin, Not the Win” and that’s no bullshit because even though she plays for keeps out there you can tell she is loving what she doing and I can’t help but root for her.

Vominatrix like G2S is clearly having so much fun and it’s great to watch. She’s got that long lanky body, sort of a praying mantis in a crazy outfit with skates but capable of great speed. She knows how block in the pack, how feed the opponent what looks like an open passing lane only to shut them down when they make their move and I laugh my ass off every time she does it.

Sol Train, well…SOL TRAIN! Here is a player that does an amazing job controlling the pack as a pivot, skates smart and tough as a blocker and has this uncanny way of seeing the line she needs to skate and cutting though the pack as a jammer. How do you NOT love that shit? The little engine than can and does.

Now, if you skate in any roller derby league, you have my utmost respect, if you are a Rose City Roller you have my admiration and if you’re a Heather, well you have my heart. These ladies are huge part of why I became a hardcore derby fan.

Q. Do you have any favorite moments from bouts past?

You mean like when I tried to hug uber-volunteer Johnny Franco? Or the bout I was obsessed with stealing a VIP seating sign for my office? Or maybe the bout when G2S was in the penalty box? Wait… that happens EVERY bout!

Actually, there have been some great moments over the years and they sort of all meld together. That might a result of the beers…

Q. What words of inspiration or advice do you, hardest of the hardcore fans, have to offer to the Heathers as they prepare for their upcoming epic battle with the Breakneck Betties?

Win…Win damn it!

Let’s face it, the Heathers know what they need to do and come August 9th they just need to execute it. We are talking about a team with great skill, poise and seasoned players. My advice would only be the ramblings of some drunken fan, so here we go!

Get in there heads early and take their game away from them.

Shutdown Ava: she’s not their only scorer but she is a key component. That crazy butt block that knocked on her ass the last bout seemed to throw her game off. Lock up Domesticated Violence early on because in the pack she has some great moves but she loses focus when she can’t skate her game. And Rhea…shit Rhea…do not let her get De Ranged!

Skate hard, skate fast, skate as team and leave a wake of red in your trail. We are with you…you’ll hear us out there:

Hea…thers! Hea…thers! Hea…thers! Hea…thers! Hea…thers! Hea…thers! Hea…thers! Hea…thers!

Meet the Cadaver: grunt

cadaver name: grunt
age: 27
neighborhood: The Land of Canucks!
beverage of choice: Any thing with hops. Too many to choose from. In Canada: Sleeman's Honey Brown Lager nad in USA: Pyramid Weizen
Heathers fan for: 1 1/2 years (well maybe 3, I just didn't know Goodie was a Heather (although at the time she might not have been)

You live in BC, correct? Do you come down often for Portland Roller Derby?

I do live in BC. Last year, I think I caught at least 3 bouts from September to November. This year it's been a little busy, but I'm trying to make it down there!

Tell us about your own league and team. How long have you been at Roller Derby, what got you into it, and how is it all going for you?

I skate with the Terminal City Rollergirls. My team are the Riot Girls, currently undefeated in our first season skating together. I've been a derby girl since January 2006, a founding member of TCRG. I caught the A&E Rollergirls show and googled to see if there was anything going on and I came across Rollergirl.ca's Pink Forum. All sorts of skating related information there, as well as a call out for interested derby skaters back in '06. This season is going pretty good, we've also released the names of the skaters who have made the TCRG travel team which I am proud to say I am a part of.

How did you become a loyal Heathers fan?

In July of 2007, a group of Heathers came to BC to scrimmage with our league. I think no matter what, the Heathers will always be a favourite of any Terminal City league members that were around at that time. Whether it be tips on how to make the perfect hit - timing and precision key! Or how to have as much fun as possible, even if they did get lost in Downtown Vancouver... What I think really cements it for me is when a group of us came down and a small group of the Heathers' Misters hung out with us pre-bout. Made sure we were taken care of and really told us how to behave in the Box!

Do you have any favorite moments from bouts past?

Honestly I can't pin-point a key favourite moment. It could be a great hit or a jammer getting by the opposing blockers. I just love when the Heathers come together and work as a team! ok, I do have to say any time Goodie skates - be it jamming or blocking - is just awesome to watch.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have to offer to the Heathers as they prepare for their upcoming epic battle with the Breakneck Betties?

They should know that Terminal City is sending some bruising hits the Betties' way. To rock them hard and know that it's the HHMF 2008 Champions!


Vid by Fire Crotch and Doc Holiday of Goodie and D-Day bound by hula hoop on quads during the Heathers' legendary Vancouver visit. Hat Tip to D-Day for the link.

Q&A with Ginger Binger of the Heartless Heathers

Skater Name: Ginger Binger
Age: 27
Neighborhood: Vantucky
Beverage of choice: Beer (Guinness or Hamms)
Heartless Heather for 4 months

photo by Meghan Gilligan

You're one of the newer Heathers. What is your skating history, how did you get involved in the Rose City Rollers, and what finally brought you to the Heartless Heathers?

I used to couples-skate to 'Pour some Sugar on me' at Roller Towne in my hometown. I spent several years breaking myself on a skateboard. I've always been active and Roller Derby seemed like the sport for me. After repeatedly missing them, I finally made it to the January tryouts, made Fresh Meat and was drafted to the Heathers in April.

How has your role with the team evolved since you first
hit the track?

I was shocked that I was drafted after only 3 months on Fresh Meat. I thought I needed to learn so much more before I made a team, so I was nervous and uncertain of myself. Intense practices, phenomenal teamwork, and time have made me MUCH more comfortable skating with my team.

How do you see your team's prospects in the championship bout against the Betties?

It is going to be an intense game. I think the teams are a good skills match and we both have different techniques and strategies on the track. Of course I believe in our ability more because of our strength of teamwork, but it will not be a cakewalk.

How did you choose your derby name?

I couldn't decide between a bunch and a friend just walked into a party where I was, heard I played derby, and rattled Ginger Binger off. I'm a redhead who drinks a lot of beer. It fit and I couldn't stop thinking about it. It's a love/hate relationship. When I'm on the wagon I feel like a fraud.

Is there something you would like to stress to fans that you think we might be oblivious to?

I think some fans may not be aware of the sheer hours we put into training and the fact that we do it purely for the love of the sport. Also, some folks coming for the WWF style skating of the 70s may not understand the role of strategy their first few bouts. There is much more to derby than knocking people down. That said, knocking people down feels really good.

How do you find time for it all?

I don't always. I get burned out. Sometimes I have to step back and reassess. I try and keep my mister happy, I can't let derby jeopardize that relationship. I just joined Axles of Annihilation. It will be interesting to see how the extra committment works when I go back to work.

Did you grow up around here? If not, where, and how did you get here?

I grew up in California and moved here four years ago after finishing college. My mister and I were done with school and over our current situation. We wanted to stay in the Northwest and we liked Portland more than Seattle, for living at least.

What are you occupied with outside of derby?

Outside of derby? What do you mean? There is not life outside of derby!! Really though, I teach high school English, have a husband, two dogs and a cat. I swim, read, go to concerts.