Why I Play Roller Derby – Punky

South Side GirlsSkater Spotlight, Why I Derby

What is the backstory on your Derby Name?

I used to wear crazy and mismatched clothes as a kid, so my mom would always call me Punky Brewster, and when I joined derby I had a hard time thinking of something that would fit, so of course my mom helped me pick a name and she thought a play on Punky Brewster would be cool (so did I) and we came up with Punky BruiseHer.

Why did you start derby?

I started derby because it has been something that ive been around and have wanted to be a part of for a large majority of my life. My mom (Booty Vicious) played for about 7 years before she finally let me join the junior team. It was honestly way harder than I expected the when I first started, but it was 100% worth it.

Has your why changed?

My why hasn’t changed, my mom is still a huge derby inspiration to me, even though she has since retired and I have now aged out of juniors. I had thought of leaving for somewhere closer to home since it is a bit of a drive, but my amazing teammates, derby wife, and awesome league (also the fact that big sexy will forever have my heart) keep me grounded .

Advice to new skaters!

My advice for anyone on the fence about derby is don’t knock it till you try it, derby is a wonderful sport for women who aren’t necessarily ‘sporty’ but also want to stay active, you’ll meet so many wonderful women, and if you don’t try it you’ll never get to tell people you play(ed) roller derby (which is super duper cool duh).

What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up:

I want to do something in the medical field. I’m not set on anything in particular, but radiology and anesthesiology do intrigue me 🤓