March Featured Skater: Black Stabbath

This metal head turned roller girl is quite the unique individual. While music and caffeine make Black Stabbath’s world go ‘round, she has several other interests and hobbies with which she keeps herself busy. She may seem quiet and shy when you first meet her, but get this girl in front of a live band, and she'll thrash around with the best of them! 

Does this music aficionado play any instruments herself? Is it even possible for the same person be into Candlemass, cats, and crafts you wonder? How did Stabbath find out about roller derby in the first place? Well, read on to find out more about one of the newest additions to Hard Knox, number 333. 


With a name like Black Stabbath, you must be a huge metal fan. Who is your favorite band? How is music influential in your daily life?

I am. Metal makes everything better. That is always a hard question, because it really depends on my mood. Right now it is a three-way tie between High on Fire, Death, and Candlemass, with honorable mention going to Electric Wizard. Music is vital. I don’t think I could function without it.

Photo credit: Black Stabbath 

Photo credit: Black Stabbath 

Do you play any musical instruments yourself?

I do. I play the ultra-cool, brings all the boys to the yard, clarinet.

What brought you to Hard Knox? How did you hear about roller derby?

I moved here from Nashville and saw an ad on Facebook for a meet ‘n’ greet. I heard about derby from some people that I knew who skated.

Did you know how to skate prior to trying out?

Barely! I grew up skating at the rink in Oliver Springs, but it had been at least a decade.

Photo credit: Rusty Riot 

Photo credit: Rusty Riot 

You have a pretty rockin' body. Besides skating, what do you do to maintain that strong, athletic figure?

Whoa now! That is super nice. I love to ramble. I will walk anywhere. If you are out in Knoxville around 4am, you will probably see me rocking out somewhere. I promise it is just endorphins, not hard drugs...

Jadacide mentioned you won MVP in a Naughty vs. Nice bout over the 2015 post-season, your first ever pick-up bout. Can you tell us a little bit about this experience?

It was amazing! A little surreal, but just an insane amount of fun. I love practice and any time I can spend on skates, but bouts are a completely different beast.

 Do you prefer blocking or jamming?

I love doing both. I would never sit out a jam if I had that choice! If I am going to jam though, I may need to drink less coffee. Adrenaline plus my insane coffee habit have led to some pretty close calls for my heart.

Photo credit: Rusty Riot 

Photo credit: Rusty Riot 

Tell us about your gear set up.

 I am still mostly in my starter gear, so it is pretty crappy. My kneepads and one wrist guard came from the donation bin after I shredded my first ones. I do have a zazzy new helmet though. Bleu Steele ran over my first one with her car. It came through with only one crack, so Triple 8 should be really proud of themselves!

What are some goals you have for yourself this season? How are you working towards achieving them?

I have a constant list of skills that I am trying to get better at. I try to touch on at least one every time I practice. I also spend a lot of time watching other skaters. I am a visual learner, so seeing things in action always helps me better grasp the concept.

Derby tends to take up a lot of your free time. When you happen to have a derby-free weekend, what do you do with yourself?

I am actually a 95 year-old lady, so it is mostly books, cats, and tea for me. I love reading (Sci-Fi/fantasy, graphic novels, anything good!) and I do a lot of crafts. I love to stay busy, so I'm always looking for a reason to turn something old or ordinary into something fun.

Photo credit: Black Stabbath 

Photo credit: Black Stabbath 

If you could have one super power, what would it be, and why?

I would definitely choose the ability to regenerate or heal quickly. I love to do crazy things, but because I also love my mom, I try pretty hard not to die. If I could be more like Wolverine, there would be no worries on either side.

I hear there's some sort of drag show/fundraiser coming up in March at Kristtopher's. Could you please elaborate on that a bit?

Heck yes! It is going to be an awesome time. Some of our skaters and coaches are going to be dressing up and performing on March 12th. I can't wait! I am a career wallflower, so I will be walking around peddling Jell-O shots and peer pressure.

Share a secret with us that no one else knows....

I see dead people.

Who would you like to see as next month's featured skater, and why?

Thang 1, because I love an artist with a wild side! She is one of the most admirable people I have ever met. 


Thanks for a super fun interview, Stabbath!

Until next month…

~Space Riot