Published on August 15th, 2011 | by DerbyLife

Meet Team USA: Juke Boxx

Name
Juke Boxx

League Affiliation
Minnesota Rollergirls

Years Skating
This is my 3rd travel season in roller derby. Have been on roller skates the majority of my life.

DL: What was your previous athletic background, if any?

JB: I played soccer in high school on a state-level competitive team. I did jam skating but never competitively, though it does help quite a bit when it comes to derby.

DL: Why did you want to be on Team USA?

JB: It’s just the biggest thing to happen to roller derby. What an exciting opportunity! I was also curious to see how my skills could be tested in comparison to so many skaters I’ve had the pleasure of watching the last few years. The whole event is so great for the sport, and I am ecstatic to be a part of that.

DL: How did you feel when you found out you had made it?

JB: Warm Fuzzies, and overwhelmed by the support and love that I am getting from skaters from all over the world. Just blows my mind really.

DL: Which skater inspires you most, and why?

JB: Adderoller, from Como Derby Dames. One word to describe her: Dedicated. It was really inspiring to talk to her and see how far she has pushed herself to get where she is. She didn’t have the luxury of skating her entire life and is a very talented skater because she did the work. Made me think more about the way I train and how much more I can push myself into doing.

DL: Do you have any advice for skaters just starting out?

JB: My advice is to not expect to be exceptional without the work. I know roller derby can be frustrating when you have some people who come in and seem to be a “natural” at it. Well they probably have some sort of background that they built on, whether it be skating, gymnastics, soccer, track, whatever. Just look at each of your accomplishments, build on them, and don’t ever let your frustrations stop you from skating. Instead, they should drive you want to skate more.

Turn left!

To support Team USA, you can make a contribution to their travel fund.