Skate Name & Number: Erin Jackson 480
Current Home League: Jacksonville Rollergirls

How long have you been skating:

I have been skating all my life, speed skating since 2003, and playing derby since October 2012

Let’s start with the question everyone asks…How did you select your derby name and number?

My usual derby name is just my real name, but for Jantastic I will be skating as AppleJackson. Since I skate for the My Little Ponies team, the name is a play on the pony Applejack. My number is the police scanner code for felony hit and run. I thought that was a fitting number for roller derby.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of roller skates?

Speed!

How would you describe yourself socially outside of derby?

I’m pretty quiet, so I generally like more relaxed social get-togethers. But I’m up for anything if it’s with good friends.

What’s the most appealing part of the sport to you?

The people! Everyone is so nice (even on the track, for the most part) and it feels like a big family.

It’s 1 minute before the first jam, what’s going on in your head?

“It’s game time!” I’m usually more excited than nervous.

What are your non-derby hobbies/activities/hidden talents?

The training and traveling for speed skating take up most of my time, but I’m also an expert sleeper and scrambled egg cooker. When I’m not busy skating in circles, I like to relax with my friends, go to the beach, or watch Netflix.

What personally motivates you to get back out there after a letdown?

I always try to remember that each letdown is really a learning experience in disguise.

What kind of training does it require to skate in Jantastic for you?

Being a jammer, I need a combination of good conditioning, which I get mostly from training for speed, and skating skills/footwork. Speed and derby are great cross training for each other!

Three things your most look forward to at Jantastic?

I’m looking forward to skating on the banked track again, making new friends on the west coast, and having a successful weekend with my team!

Photo: Tristan King