Skate Name & Number:Jelly Mean #707
Experience in Skating:On and off for approximately 25 years
Time Spent in Roller Derby:
: 4
How did you start Roller Derby:Initially, I joined a local skate fitness class to get back into skating. I hadn't realized it was on quads, so I was a bit hesitant at first, but they eventually persuaded me. Shortly after, the coach introduced me to Roller Derby. She had skated before and was instrumental in establishing some of the more prominent leagues here today. I wasn't really familiar with it, but she suggested CCR, and I've been there ever since.
Can you recall the first game you watched?Not very clearly. I saw two bouts in quick succession and remember that one was against Auld Reekie Rollergirls and the other against Lincolnshire Bombers Roller Girls. I can never remember whether they were A or B games or the order they occurred. I didn't really understand Roller Derby then, so it was quite confusing, but I knew I wanted to play!
Which League/s are you currently part of:
Central City Roller Girls
How did you decide on your derby name?I found it really challenging to come up with a name. Everything I thought of was either already taken on TwoEvils or too similar to someone else on the team. One night, after skating, I overheard a conversation about someone making a jellyfish costume for a fancy dress party. I got into my car to go home, snacking on some jelly beans, and the name just came to me. The number was selected randomly.
How would you describe your skating style?Like an inline skater. Despite my efforts, I'm still happiest when speeding, which isn't always ideal for derby. I think my style has evolved a lot over the years. I'm quite agile on my feet and enjoy practicing footwork drills to enhance it.
What is your preferred position?Blocker. I enjoy playing sneaky offense when it's least expected.
Can you tell us about your kit—what is your current setup?
Working at Skatehut allows me to try out a lot of gear, so I have 'practice' equipment but always revert to a specific setup for bout days.
Skates
:
Crazy Skates DBX3 DNA Custom Boot- Not only does it look fantastic, but the custom sizing ensures it fits my feet perfectly. I switched to the DBX3 from the DBX4 because I wanted to see how a higher ankle would affect my performance, and it has given me much more control over sharp lateral movements.
Crazy Venus plate- I have the kingpin upgrade for reduced weight and improved agility cushions. I love the range of movement this plate offers; I get a solid push but much more mobility than I've had before.
Wheels:
Heartless Breaker 94a Wheels- No matter how many wheel sets I test, on bout day I still prefer these. They are nicely narrow, providing a good mix of grip and slide.
Toe Stops - For blocking, I prefer a large flat surface, so I use
Big Blocs
, and for jamming, I like
Crazy Bounce
or
Riedell Moonwalkers
Protection
:
CCM Vector 04 Hockey Helmet with Fischer Visor- I've experienced too many concussions and have been struck in the face too often to consider anything else!
Triple 8 Roller Derby Wristguards- I have an old wrist injury from skating, so I appreciate the pull-on style of these and the broader palm splint.
187 Pro Derby Knee Pads- These aren't for everyone, but they work exceptionally well for me.
187 Killer Elbows- These are quite old, yet I still adore them!
I use a custom-fitted mouthguard from the dentist but always had a
Sisu
prior to that
What's currently on your 'most wanted' gear list?
I'm about to try out the new TSG Roller Derby 2.0 knee pads this month and then the Deadbolt Grand Slams in May. I'm a fan of both brands, so it'll be interesting to see how these feel. My helmet is due for an upgrade, probably to a new Bauer or CCM model once they arrive with the new season. I prefer these because they have a rounded back rather than the more angular shape you find in some Easton or Reebok helmets. Right now, I'm setting up a new Skate Park configuration, which will feature a DBX4 boot, but I haven't decided on the plates yet. I need some grind blocks, so maybe a Sure-grip Avanti.
How do you prepare for a match?With food! That's no joke either; my priority is to eat properly before playing so I'm neither overly tired nor too full. After that, I like to practice my footwork on the track to get a good feel for my edges.
What kind of off-skate training do you do?It varies. I'm fortunate that our team works with a Strength and Conditioning coach who is excellent. I like to include gym sessions to focus on specific areas, and then I run or cycle (but only if it's warm—I dislike cold weather). I sustained an injury last season, so much of my training has centered around recovery and prevention.
Has Roller Derby changed your life?If so, how? Absolutely, I got my job here at Skate Hut because of playing derby. I'm fitter, stronger, and more confident, plus I've traveled and met many amazing people. It's probably the best thing I've ever done.
What is your proudest roller derby moment?I think they get surpassed regularly as things naturally progress—my most memorable moment was at Track Queens. I'd only been skating for a year, and our team faced a tough time, but it was mind-blowing to see the level of competition elsewhere in mainland Europe.
Who are your derby heroes?
There are many skaters I admire, each for different reasons. I was in awe the first time I saw Mr. Furieux play at the first Men's Euros. Like most people, I idolize almost everyone at LRG, especially for their teamwork. I could list many names popular with everyone (like all of Team USA), but there are others I believe deserve a mention—Dark Matter, El Pibe, Tink, Bloxie Blackout, Curly Haar, Demanda Riot.
Do you have any upcoming matches that you’re particularly excited about, and why?CCR has a busy year planned, balancing British champs and our WFTDA sanctioned matches both locally and abroad—I look forward to all of them.
Besides playing, are there any other ways you engage with Roller Derby?
My job :) I am responsible for the Roller Derby and Skating divisions here at Skate Hut.
What are your thoughts on Roller Derby as a sport “past, present, future”?
Derby has already evolved significantly since I first started, and I still consider myself new to the sport. I recall the days of fishnets, shorts, and minor penalties, and now I see it becoming increasingly competitive, demanding, and athletic. The sport is advancing rapidly, and I think it's important to remember how far it has come and how much it is shaped by the skaters themselves.
Is Roller Derby the only form of skating you do? If not, what else do you do on skates?
I've done various types of skating over the years, from ice to inline. I still dabble in them, and I'd like to do more.
Any goals for the future?Outside of derby, I'd like to try speed skating and spend more time at the Skate park. Regarding derby, my goals align with my team and include many personal skills to develop. I'd like to see us compete against the USA soon.
Is there anything else you would like to add?My role at Skate Hut involves discussing derby with others, so if I can assist anyone, please feel free to reach out!
Photo Credit: Phil Seymour