Published on August 18th, 2011 | by DerbyLife

Meet Team USA: V-Diva

Name
Vanessa Sites, V-Diva

League Affiliation
Dutchland Derby Rollers

Years Skating
2008 to present

DL: What was your previous athletic background, if any?
V: Softball, speed skating, volleyball, tennis, cross country, and swimming/diving.

DL: Why did you want to be on Team USA?
V: I wanted to be on Team USA because I wanted to represent my country at the first World Cup doing something I absolutely love. I live and breathe roller derby and I want the USA to also feel my passion for it.

DL: How did you feel when you found out you had made it?
V: When I found out I had made the top 28 for Team USA, I felt like all of my hard work had paid off…blood, sweat, tears, blisters, bruises, all the money spent on traveling to practices and bouts …it was all worth it. I’m excited to represent and do the best that I can for my country.

DL: Which skater inspires you most, and why?
V: I am inspired by all skaters who have the same level of dedication and passion for roller derby that I do. The people who pushed me to the place I am today…my family, friends, teammates, sister leagues, fans…I thank you for believing in me.

DL: Do you have any advice for skaters just starting out?
V: Shoot for the stars. Believe in yourself. What you put in is what you get out, so always give 110%. We all started as new skaters, but the skaters who push themselves the hardest and strive to make themselves better are the skaters who are going to be the most successful.

To support Team USA, you can make a contribution to their travel fund at Traveler’s Joy.