Meet Sharkie!
In this interview with roller derby player Sharkie, we learn about her experiences playing for the Honey Island Rollers in Malta.
Sharkie, whose real name is Dannie, is a badass blocker for the Honey Island Rollers. She is also a lead rookie trainer, taking on the super important job of teaching newbies skating skills and derby skills. Sharkie comes to us all the way from Australia, but has been living in Malta for years. Despite having no previous skating experience, she became a founding member of the HIR team back in 2020.
As a marine biologist, Sharkie brings her knowledge of the ocean to her derby name, Sharkie-101. She has also participated in other sports such as Taekwondo, swimming, and scuba diving, but playing roller derby has taught her that “anything is possible.”
For new skaters, Sharkie’s advice is simple: “Keep going!” Roller derby can be a challenging sport to learn, but with perseverance and dedication, anyone can become a skilled player.
What Sharkie loves most about the Honey Island Rollers is the people. Roller derby is known for its supportive and inclusive community, and HIR is no exception. The team is made up of a diverse group of individuals who come together to play and have fun.
Sharkie’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of community. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, roller derby has something to offer everyone. As Sharkie says, “anything is possible” if you keep going and surround yourself with supportive people.
Has Sharkie’s story inspired you? Get in touch with us if you’d like to join the Honey Island Rollers!