What’s that? A skater? A ref? An NSO? Oh, wait- it’s all three! This week’s officials appreciation post centers around Melody Mayhem– a trifecta of roller derby talent- and her husband, Shotgun Mike! (Also very talented!)
Melody started out as a skater, or more specifically, a formidable jammer with sharp shoulders and hard hits. She would often travel with Shotgun Mike and decided to start NSOing as well! Eventually that turned into reffing and the rest is history. She’s been officiating for about 4 years now.
Shotgun Mike is going into his 5th season officiating roller derby, and man does he make those stripes look good! Mike is always willing to explain the rules to newbies…and okay, let’s face it, vets too. He’s a great teacher and refs with integrity and an impeccable knowledge of the game, no matter how much it changes year to year.
This power couple has been to scrimmages, games, and tournaments together. They are also some of the most welcoming and kind people you can meet. Whether it’s opening their home on holidays and lending an ear or a smile, making calls to keep skaters safe or working hard to make events go smoothly, these two approach every situation with grace, thoughtfulness and humor.
While these two have many titles within CFDD, they’ve recently added two new ones: Mom and Dad! While quarantine is keeping many of us from holding sweet little Penny and staring at her tiny toes, (how are they SO small?!) we’re all very happy and are excited for these two and the amazing parents they’ve become. Thanks for our newest, tiniest ref, guys!
Want more info about this perfect pair? Here’s their two cents:
Shotgun Mike:
What got you started officiating?
My wife joined as a skater, so I was around derby all the time anyway. This seemed like the best way for me to contribute to the community!
Do you prefer to officiate on or off skates? Why?
On skates because it’s as close as you can get to the action without taking hits all the time!
What is the hardest part of officiating?
Players, coaches, and fans sometimes take it WAY too seriously when things don’t go their way.
What is the best part?
The feeling of taking a chaotic game and keeping it safe and fun for everybody.
What would you tell someone who is considering becoming an official?
Do it! Especially you skaters out there! C’mon! Grab a whistle! Let’s go!
What do you do when you’re not officiating?
I teach filmmaking (mostly sound production) at a university
What is a fun fact about you?
I’ve lived on both coasts (Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles)
Melody Mayhem:
What got you started officiating?
My husband, Shotgun Mike. He would travel around to get experience reffing and I would travel with him. NSOs are always in need, so I started volunteering to NSO. Then one day I tried my hand at reffing, not only to help out but to learn and understand the rules of derby better…which has helped me greatly when playing derby.
Do you prefer to officiate on or off skates? Why?
Off skates, because I’m a nerd and I love the paperwork!
What is the hardest part of officiating?
Having a neutral face during game play, especially during a hard, nasty hit.
What is the best part?
Meeting officials from all over the world.
What would you tell someone who is considering becoming an official?
Do it! Seriously though, give it a try. It’s a great way to watch and support roller derby.
What do you do when you’re not officiating?
I teach elementary music, knit/crochet, and love cuddling my brand new baby girl!
What is a fun fact about you?
I love unicorns. Does that count as fun??? lol
We sure think so. Unicorns are magical, just like these two roller derby lovin’ fools. While we can’t bout right now, we are having fun scavenger hunts and other team bonding events from home! Make sure to check us out on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest and corniest updates.
