Meet Team USA: Jamsterella

Name
Jamsterella

League Affiliation
Fort Myers Derby Girls

Years Skating
20 years skating and 2 ½ playing derby

DL: What was your previous athletic background, if any?
J: I played roller hockey throughout middle school and played soccer all 4 years of high school, I jam skated and speed skated in middle and high school, and became the National Champion for quad speed skating in 2001.

DL: Why did you want to be on Team USA?
J: For the experience to play with and against the best players in our sport, and the ability to be part of derby history.

DL: How did you feel when you found out you made the top 34?
J: It was a waiting game for me. We were at the finals in Tampa, just sitting there patiently until they had everyone close by. It was nerve-wracking and a nail-biting period. When my name was called I was extremely excited, smiling from ear to ear. I wanted him to repeat it to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. My face hurt from smiling so much that evening.

DL: Which skater inspires you the most, and why?
J: Any skater who is willing to put in work necessary to better themselves and take their ability to the next level is an inspiration to me.

DL: Do you have any advice for skaters starting out?
J: From the physical demands to the mental and emotional strains that you will put yourself through, derby is not easy. Sometimes it will be harder than you think you can handle, stick with it. The rewards of this sport, the camaraderie, the empowerment you will feel after winning your first game or pulling off an amazing block, and the support and respect you will get from your “derby family,” will greatly outweigh the hardships that you will endure. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it!

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