Skater of the Month: Teddy Wreck-Spin

Skater of the Month: Teddy Wreck-Spin

How did you get into roller derby?

I was originally asked to announce for SVRG. I saw how much fun everyone was having on skates so I decided to join in.

What kind of skating skills or athletic abilities did you have before starting derby?

I played a little bit of football and baseball when I was a kid. I rollerbladed when it was really cool. My whole family is very athletic, it was time I joined the party.

How did you derive your derby name?

“Teddy Ruxpin” was the creepy talking bear from the ’80s. Someone else thought of it for me and I took it. I’m horrible at that sort of thing.

What is your primary ref job?

I love to jam ref. Front inside pack is also a favorite of mine. I love skating backwards.

What position would you choose to play if you played roller derby, and what would you be known for on the track?

I think I would do best as a pivot. I’d be best known for ruining your day.

What is your greatest strength as a ref? What do you contribute most?

I’m pretty capable of skating all ref positions. I like to be able to show up to a bout and have many options to be able to help out.

What has been your greatest experience on the rink?

I’ve met so many amazing and beautiful people through derby, the SVRG zebras/skaters are the best. In the 2 seasons I’ve reffed derby I’ve also lost almost 70lbs. Derby has changed my life. I don’t like to think about what I would do without it.

What was your worst injury?

I fell on my skate once and got a wheel up the butt. Sitting down was tough for about a week. Luckily, that’s the worst I’ve been hurt.

What do you contribute to SVRG *off* the track?

I recently took over as head of PR/Marketing for SVRG. It’s been great to work with these girls in such a capacity. SVRG has done a lot for me and I like to give back.

How do you spend the non-derby part of your life? What other hobbies and interests do you have?

I work in radio.  I also have my own podcast, teddyandchris.com.

What’s the one piece of advice you would give other men who are interested in being a referee?

Being a skating ref is 80% game/rules knowledge and 20% skating. If you know how to skate that’s awesome, but you need to know the game. I like it when a skater approaches me before or after a game and says, “I’m so glad you’re here.” It’s the best feeling.