November Featured Skater: BruiseLea

Derby name: BruiseLea

Number: #44

Position(s): Blocker, Pivot

How long have you been playing derby?

I have been in the derby world since 2018, but this is my 3rd season playing.

How did you get started playing derby?

I got started playing derby because my kids wanted to go to Skateway when they opened, and I had never skated. We went one time and I was in love so we bought skates then 6 months later I saw a derby flyer but I didn't think I was ready. Another 6 months went by, and I saw another flyer, so I went to the recruitment, and the rest is history.

What's your favorite thing about it?

My favorite thing about derby is the community that comes with nothing but love!!

How did you pick your derby name/number?

A friend of mine picked my derby name because it matches my government name. My number is my daughter birthdays combined (070308 + 021014).

What's your proudest accomplishment on the track?

My proudest accomplishment was being voted as Captain because I love that my team trusts me enough to be in this role for them.

What's your gnarliest injury?

I thankfully have never been injured too bad during derby but I was skating outside and forgot to put on my knee pads then I fell going down a hill and had some pretty good road rash and a small tear in my MCL.

How would you describe your derby playing style?

I think my derby playing style is a tad aggressive but with a smile. I enjoy hitting others on the track, but I don't ever want to hurt anybody. I will hit you, then apologize and help you up.

What are your goals for the season?

My goal for the upcoming season is to get better at 1 on 1 blocking.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I like to take my kids to do fun activities such as bowling.

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

Feel Invincible by Skillet.