Red Pearl - 666
What is the origin of your derby name and/or number?
My name has a couple of different meanings. My first name, “Reed" means red and my initials are RED. Growing up I was a tomboy who loved pearls. I would wear them with a t-shirt and jeans. Pearl is also an homage to my favorite quote “no grit, no pearl”. I chose 666 as my number because they are the first three digits of my phone number and unexpected…like me!
What teams have you played with?
TCRD is my first!
How/when did you discover derby?
Last summer I was looking at local events on FB and came across a free derby 101 event and knew I had to check it out! The rest is history. :)
How has derby impacted your life?
Derby has taught me that I am strong and capable of achieving my dreams if I put in the work and keep a positive attitude! Derby has given me an outlet and home away from home.
What derby positions do you enjoy playing?
I love every position but enjoy jamming the most because there are so many different ways to play the position, so much strategy to it and it is challenging in all of the best ways. I like being in control and as a jammer you are the most “in control” of the points for your team and that pressure is really exciting. Pivot is my second favorite position because you have the opportunity to help the pack and the jammer in different ways so I feel like the most “team player” while playing pivot.
Do you have a personal goal for this year?
I want to be a better communicator on the track and I would love to reach sanctioned level play!
What advice do you have for new skaters?
Never say “I can’t”, instead say “I’m learning to”. I used to say “I can’t skate backwards” until I changed my words to “I’m learning to skate backwards”. Now I can confidently say “I CAN skate backwards” after months of “I’m learning to”. You will progress at your own rate and how quickly you do is up to you! Make coming to practice a requirement, not optional. Fight for your goals and never compare yourself to the skater next to you! Ask questions constantly and don’t feel embarrassed for not knowing something- we’ve all been there and never stop learning!
What are your non-derby hobbies?
Never say “I can’t”, instead say “I’m learning to”. I used to say “I can’t skate backwards” until I changed my words to “I’m learning to skate backwards”. Now I can confidently say “I CAN skate backwards” after months of “I’m learning to”. You will progress at your own rate and how quickly you do is up to you! Make coming to practice a requirement, not optional. Fight for your goals and never compare yourself to the skater next to you! Ask questions constantly and don’t feel embarrassed for not knowing something- we’ve all been there and never stop learning!
What is your day job?
I’m a homemaker and a professional photographer!
Final thoughts ...
Like everything in life, Roller Derby is what you make of it! I’m here to have a kick-ass time and push myself to be the best version of myself I can be. So far I’m loving every minute of it. :)