In what year did you start playing roller derby?
2019 (but got ended up exclusively park/trail skating away from humans during COVID 2020-2022): came back in hot in 2023.
Were you previously a member of another league?
Tallahassee Roller Derby (formerly RollerGirls), New Jax City Rollers, Denver Roller Derby, Magic City Mayhem, Team Florida, Team Divergence, TST
Is there a story behind your name?
I originally skated as Free the Whipple—a playful nod to my last name. After some personal changes, I realized I needed a new name and spent months searching for the right one. Unrelated to derby, but absolutely related to my love of sea critters – I found myself ugly-crying at the rays in aquarium beneath the Manta rollercoaster at SeaWorld. Something about it clicked, and the name never let go.
Did you have any previous athletic or skating experience before starting roller derby?
I grew up a dancer and got really into rock climbing as an adult but throughout my life I’ve had brief dalliances with running (cross country), archery, cheerleading, and horseback riding.
What’s your favorite Orlando theme park ride?
Manta (duh!)
What’s your favorite Orlando activity that isn’t a theme park?
Escape Rooms!
Everyone loves restaurant recommendations, which Orlando area restaurant would you tell people to check out?
Cafe TuTu Tango
