Still a relative newcomer to the league, Bagel Insanity has quickly found a place in both the Crimes and B-Keepers’ blocking schemas. He is still raw and has a lot of potential to develop into a fantastic blocker. He is the October Skater of the Month! He is Bagel Insanity!

Why did you get into Derby?

I was originally cast in that movie “Whip It”, but was replaced two weeks into shooting by Ellen Page.

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

I’m not sure any one person has had the most influence, it’s basically an amalgam of a bunch of different gatekeepers. Of course, when I first joined the big names took the immediate limelight for obvious reasons, but as I started to learned more about the game, the more strategy oriented players started to stand out. I think everyone wants to jam like Prime or hit like Neil Death Experience, but if I can be the player that helps Prime score easy points or hold a wall while Neil sweeps out for a big hit, that’s my goal. We have players like this in our league, and they do a really good job at it. Those are the players that are influencing me most at the moment.

What skates and wheels do you use?

AR1’s with Revenge plates. My wheels are BZERK Schitzo 94A. I really have no idea what any of that means, but before I bought my setup I looked to see what other players had and these names kept appearing.

What was your favorite moment as a GateKeeper?

Definitely winning the Turf War championship this year. Although I came in the on the upswing, it was really nice to see everyones hard work pay off. Especially those that were around during the rough years. Our team had something to prove and being able to contribute in the small way I could was really great.

What is your pre-bout ritual?

I usually just stand in front of the mirror and criticize myself for like 30 minutes.

What advice do you have for other skaters?

Since I still consider myself very new to derby, I can only speak to other new players. The only real advice I can give, although banal, is: you get back what you put in. Aphoristic I know, but if you come to all the practices your schedule allows, and really focus, and listen to what they are teaching, you WILL get better. Joining this league is brutal. There were so many times in the first couple months that I would sit in my car outside the Skatium and would have to talk myself into going inside. Likewise, there were times leaving practice sure that was my last. I guess what I’m trying to say is this game is really difficult but if you are dedicated, and humble, you’ll improve.

What is your favorite food?

I treat all foods equally, and partake in their joyous wonders as much as possible.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of Derby?

Nothing beats a 30 Rock marathon.

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

All the current penalties in my opinion are pretty fair when called consistently. There are some low and stop block calls that seem superfluous at times, but all things considered, the rules are solid. A healthier relationship between the officials and players would be nice as sometimes it seems a bit contentious.

Who would play you in a movie about your life?

I would be remiss if I didn’t say Oliver Platt, but seriously, Rick Moranis.

There you have it ladies and gentlemen, the October Skater of the Month: Bagel Insanity.

On October 19th and 20th the GateKeepers will be in Sioux City Iowa for the 2013 MRDA Championships. They enter the tournament ranked #2 in the MRDA and their first round opponent will be Puget Sound from Tacoma Washington. If you can’t make it to Sioux City, you can watch all the action on wftda.tv!

See you at the bouts!

Star-Spangled Hammer

Star-Spangled Hammer and Magilla Guerilla are the announcers for the St. Louis GateKeepers.