February’s Member of the Month: Pummel Entendre!

February’s Member of the Month is a wall unto herself–a powerful blocker able to stop a jammer without giving an inch, or blast an opposing blocker out of the way, all with a smile on her face. She’s also serving on our 2019 Board of Directors as our Event Coordinator. Say hello to Pummel Entendre!


Who are you?
Pummel Entendre! (#2)

How long have you been involved with roller derby?
I’ve been skating for around 3.5 years now… I’m pretty sure.

When did you join SRD?
I joined SRD as a transfer in spring of 2017.

Why did you start playing roller derby?
Since I saw Whip It, I always had derby in the back of my mind as something that I wanted to do. I had played rugby in college, so I knew that I liked contact sports, and I figured that derby was like rugby but on wheels! I was up for the challenge and in need of some new friends so I joined Strong Island Derby Revolution while living out on Long Island.

Why do you continue to play roller derby?
Honestly, it keeps me sane. There’s the physical aspect, with the adrenaline and endorphins, and then theirs the social aspect with the unique community that derby provides. When I go a couple weeks without going to practice I really feel down! Plus there is always a new challenge with derby – the sport is constantly evolving and there are always new things to master!

What’s your proudest derby moment?
I can’t think of one thing in particular, but I always feel the best when I can provide helpful feedback to other skaters to help them get something new. Finally mastering a new skating skill myself is also fun!

What do you do outside of derby?
I’m a graduate student, getting my PhD in neuroscience at NYU. Basically, I make my living being a nerd. I also enjoy comics and hanging out in bookstores.

Anything else we should know about you?
As hinted by my name, I am a fan of puns and innuendos. At my own risk, I’m going to say send them my way. 🙂