December Featured Skater: The Kraken

Derby name: The Kraken

Number: #88

Position(s): All of them, but I'm usually jamming

How long have you been playing derby?

I joined derby at the end of 2015 with the Key West Derby Dames. That league didn’t come back after COVID, unfortunately, but I was able to start playing again in 2024 after I moved to the area and found Little City Roller Derby.

How did you get started playing derby?

My cousin played roller derby (and still does) and a good friend played at the time. They made it look so fun, I wanted to play too!

What's your favorite thing about it?

I love the positivity and community that a derby team provides. Hitting your friends (safely and legally) is also a great way to let out some pent-up frustrations!

How did you pick your derby name/number?

I am a fisheries ecologist and wanted a name to reflect that, the number comes from an octopus having 8 arms. Plus I enjoy hearing “Release the Kraken” when I’m on track.

What's your proudest accomplishment on the track?

Hmm, what comes to mind was from a tournament earlier this year. I started the jam in the box (oppies) but still scored at least 10 points while my blockers never let the other jammer complete her initial pass.

What's your gnarliest injury?

I have been lucky so far and haven’t had anything major (knock on wood). A bit of a sprained ankle and a hyperextended finger are it.

How would you describe your derby playing style?

I try to juke and sneak around blockers, but sometimes that doesn’t work so I resort to brute force. I am stronger than I look! While not really a playing style, I also try to maintain a positive attitude at practices and game. Above all else, I want to enjoy derby, otherwise, why do it?

What are your goals for the season?

I am grateful to have been voted team captain for 2026, so beyond improving my own skills, I want to make sure the team has what they need to grow and have fun while doing so.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like to hike, garden, knit, crochet, read, and hang out with my husband and our zoo of animals (german shephard, cats, rabbits, chickens). I’m also working on a PhD in fisheries.

If you had a song play every time you walked into a room, what would it be?

Burn the House Down by AJR.