“Taking down 120-pound jammers is what I live for.”
Roller derby name and number: Zelda Shagnasty #69
Roller derby position – on the track: Blocker. I’m sturdy, hard to bring down and love the rush of watching little girls fly.
Roller derby position – off the track: Co-captain, because being a leader comes naturally to me. I love this team and I believe in what we’re doing, so if there is anything that I can do to make GRR more competitive, I’ll do it.
How long have you been playing roller derby for GRR? Since late 2008 when I found out about this awesome group of ladies and all the ass-kicking they were doing from a good friend and I just knew I needed to be a part of it.
How did you come up with your name? It’s a nickname given to me by my dad when I was a kid (I don’t find this as weird or creepy as everyone else seems to…) and “69” happens to be the year I entered this world — with helmet and skates, of course.
Do you have any pre- or post-bout rituals? Pre-bout planning with Suzie Bonebreaker at Bagels Unlimited and then some serious face-stuffing with Dr. PopHer before the bout (hey, I have to maintain my girlish figure!). Post-bout partying with my GRRls wherever we are, usually followed by me making sure everyone has a safe way to get home!
What is your favorite thing about playing roller derby for GRR? Knowing that these girls have my back both on and off the track.
What is your most memorable GRR roller derby experience? I have so many, but the most memorable was when I dislocated my shoulder and the medics popped it back in, sat out for one jam and then went back in to finish the bout — not my brightest moment, but certainly one of my toughest! Disclaimer: I do not recommend or condone this behavior; it resulted in having to get serious shoulder surgery and sitting out for the rest of the 2009 season. (Note: Zelda was also the recipient of MVP Blocker at three games in 2010.)
If your roller derby alter-ego had a theme song, what would it be? “Smack My Bitch Up” by Prodigy
Aside from roller derby, what are you passionate about? Triathlons — I love to prepare for them and get that rush when completing them.
What would GRR fans be surprised to know about you? Spanish is my native language — I didn’t learn English till I was 13 years old. I was also part of a belly-dancing performance troupe for over five years, performing in shows all around Gainesville.
What makes you a Rebel? I enjoy the big hits! Taking down 120-pound jammers is what I live for (legally, of course).
Likes: Getting sweaty and physical, Ferg’s delicious adventures in the kitchen and Hello Kitty.
Dislikes: People telling me I’m too old to do anything!
Guilty pleasures: Vino, cheese and more vino… oh, and queso, can’t forget the queso! I would not have this voluptuous shape otherwise!