It’s a new month and that means a new Skater of the Month! This month it is Zombie Jesus! A travel team member since the team’s inception, Zombie Jesus’ passive blocking skills and track awareness are a sight to see. Zombie Jesus won the “Dogtown Rockets’ Best Blocker” award for 2011 and is the epitome of the “blue collar” style of derby that the GateKeepers play. His play rarely stands out in the pack, but that is only because he is not a flashy player. He plays solid defense with a no-nonsense style and substance.

Why did you get into derby?

Why? Huh, usually people ask “how.” My stock answers seemingly won’t apply to this interview. Kudos, Hammer.
I got into derby mostly because it looked like fun. I’d just run a marathon and was looking for a new challenge. That and I was asked if I wanted to. Recruited if you will.

Who do you think has had the most influence on your style of play?

Hell, I wasn’t even sure how Derby was played when I started, so our coach, Magnum PIMP, is the most obvious influence. However, I’m not sure I play much like anyone else. I’m not the most naturally athletic guy, so I rarely make spectacular looking plays. I don’t have the size to move people around much and big hits are not my forte.

The way I look at it is that I have two strengths: 1. My endurance. 2. My awareness. Now endurance is great for derby, but I don’t consider it a game breaker. At the end of the day, positioning is my only tool when it comes to playing at a high level. To make that effective I need to always be in the right place at the right time and that means always being aware of my surroundings. How tight the pack is playing, how fast the jammer is coming in, will there still be a gap for me to fit through in the next few seconds… I always try to play a few moves ahead. Not that it always works…

It’s a long explanation, but let’s just say none of that would have come without Magnum’s continued guidance.

What skates and wheels do you use?

I use Reidell 10,000s with Green wheels. They are both the best kinds.

What was your favorite moment as a gatekeeper?

If anyone on the Travel Team says anything other than Spring Roll in 2011 they’re an idiot. That said, I think my favorite moment has to be Spring Roll 2010. That first game against Dallas… It was the first time I realized we were doing it right and it finally proves I’m an idiot.

What is your pre-bout ritual?

I do a few things, but don’t consider any of them as part of a routine. I like to wear my skates for an hour before the bout. Sometimes I listen to music to get going, but I usually just end up talking to everyone. Also, I have this thing about not showing up with any derby gear on. I wait as long as possible before I put on the super hero costume. You never see Batman at Starbucks.

What advice do you have for other skaters?

My advice is almost completely Jedi based. I remember the actual moment I realized I needed to trust my feelings.

Seriously though, use more than just your eyes. Listen. Feel. Use that weird sixth sense that lets you know someone is watching you. Try blocking against someone without looking.

What is your favorite food?

Pizza. Just pizza.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of derby?

My wife and I go on lots of dates and I don’t think my week would be complete without them. So, movies, dinner, baseball games… Just as long as they are with her, everything is right.

If you could remove one penalty from the game, what would it be?

Ha! To the guy in the $5000 suit that reads “Most Likely to Go To The Penalty Box.” The answer to this is easy… Minors.

Who would play you in a movie about your life?

Well if it’s anyone who I get “you look like” to:
Jim Carrey
John Mayer
Johnny Knoxville
Dude from Gossip Girl

Personally I’d go with William Peterson. I feel like he could use the work.

There you have it ladies and gentlemen. A look into the mind of Zombie Jesus.

Keep an eye on the website as we will be announcing our 2012 season schedule very soon and we will have some great deals on ticket packages. I’ll also be doing our first “Year in Review” article for the site later this month!

See you at the bouts!

Star-Spangled Hammer
Star-Spangled Hammer is the announcer for the St. Louis GateKeepers.

Share Your Love of Roller Derby With Others!