Featured Skater: Vajenna Warrior #56

When did you join roller derby and how did you hear about it?

I joined in late September 2008. My dear friend Amanda, née Claire Violence, had just went through Boot Camp and was loving it. I was looking for a sport to get involved in again, and it was either roller derby or hockey, and I chose roller derby.
 

Had you played other sports previously?

I was pretty constantly involved in sports my whole life. My big sports were ice hockey and softball.

How did you come up with your derby name?

Vajenna Warrior is a play on my name, Jenna, and Vagina Warrior a la Eve Ensler’s V-Day and the Vagina Monologues.

What’s your favorite part about being a skater/member of QCRG?

My favorite part of being a skater is game day. I love the thrill of a competition, working as a team to do our best and stop some jammers! (I played defense in hockey as well!) It’s a cliché for a reason: it’s also so wonderful to be part of this conglomerate community of moving parts and people.

How do you feel your participation has changed or affected your life?

The year I joined roller derby was a big transition year for me. Drugs, alcohol, and depression had taken over my life, and I was trying to get clean. The sport itself, but more importantly the community of QCRG, was instrumental in providing me a place of support, love, and a positive connection with my body that I hadn’t had in a long time. Along with some other help, I don’t believe I would still be drug-free, and possibly alive, if I had not become involved with this league. Being a member has provided countless opportunities for growth and learning.

What’s your favorite league or team event of the year?

Bout day! Also, I love the Lake Effect Furies’ fundraiser, which we just had, the Chili Cook-Off. It’s in a beautiful venue and there’s always a great turn out and good eats.

You’ve battled injuries over the years, how have you gotten through those times?

Wooof. With patience and persistence! I’m still getting through some of them! It’s tough to watch your teammates from the sidelines, but it’s so important to make sure an injury is healed before returning to skates. During my most recent injury, I’ve tried to become more involved in the off-skates part of the league. I want to be an NSO when I grow up!

What skates and wheels do you have?

I wear Bont Hybrid skates and Juice Spiked wheels.

What is your personal goal for the upcoming season?

To be a jammer! I’m coming for you, Brawl! But for real, I’d like to be in a position to pinch-jam if needed. I’ve got a long ways to go though!

What legacy do you want to leave behind you when you retire?

I don’t know about legacy…but I want to see this sport continue to grow. Participation in sports was so important to me growing up as a person and as a woman. It would be great if this thing we’re doing here continues to be available to girls (and boys) to come. And obviously with our junior league, we’re doing a great job keeping it going!