Tallahassee RollerGirls MVP of the Month: Showtime

March 6, 2012 | TALLAHASSEE
Written By: Purr So Cute

Our MVP of the Month is our main man on the mic, Showtime, who has been TRG's awesome announcer since 2006! With such a distinctive voice, Showtime has no problem pumping up the crowd, giving play-by-plays, and keeping everyone engaged at our bouts. A positive, caring and giving person, Showtime is also a big help behind the scenes. Read on to find out more about your MVP of the Month for March 2012!

Name: Showtime
Years with League: 6
Primary Position: Announcer

What’s a typical day or week like for you?
Busy, busy, and busy! Police/Fire Dispatcher by day, martial arts instructor by evening, and my not-so-secret identity as ANNOUNCER by night. When I get off from work it's on to my next task, whether it be class or errands, and then home to fix a little dinner before bedtime. Sunday evening is my TRG time. I attempt to make most Sunday practices.

How did you get involved with the Tallahassee RollerGirls?
From MySpace.com back in the day. And past President of TRG, F.A.B., who liked my voice.

Who are your roller derby heroes?
Way too many to list, but a few would be Val Capone out of Chicago, Vince Hannity from Tampa, Wundamike from Texas. I have a few home team heroes, but I won't say who...

Do you have a motivational quote?
“L'essentiel est invisible pour les yeux” (“That which is important is invisible to the eye”). AND... “I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it for I shall not pass this way again.”

What's it like being a roller derby announcer?
Well, I'm an announcer calling most bouts solo. So it's often busier than a one-armed paper hanger and a one-legged man in a butt kicking contest. Trying to make sure EVERYTHING is covered: intros, derby demo explanation, sponsors, fan interaction, after party, upcoming bouts, play-by-plays, etc., etc., etc. Oh, and sound professional, being non-partisan on the mic, and making sure both teams get treated fairly. You know the easy job...lol.

What are some of your best/favorite moments being a roller derby announcer?
Let's see, the one that always comes to mind is a uh...um..."threat" by Pixie Pounder at an after party in Tampa in 2008. Also, the very first TRG bout in 2006 when the room felt like it was filled with thousands of people...the roar of that crowd set the stage for all future TRG bouts! And in Tampa at Sunshine Skate in 2008 with Tally taking home 2nd place in the STATE (and my first tournament)!

Do you have any advice for anyone who is thinking about joining roller derby?
Do it! Derby is a sport that has room for everyone from the athletes to the techies. You can learn to skate, make great friends, and be part of an institution that is unlike any other! It's a sport that continues to grow and change. Derby is worldwide!

What animal do you think best describes your derby playing style?
Probably an owl. Quiet most of the time, loud and "getter of attention" when needed, and always have razor sharp talons when needed!

Anyone you'd like to take the opportunity to thank?
My wife, Michelle, for putting up with my OCD-like tendencies. TRG in general for encouraging my announcing. Finally, my broadcasting teachers (Dave Spurrier and Mike McGuire) from high school (way back in the 80s) for teaching me how to sound professional and confident on the mic!

Stay tuned next month for our next look into the life of one of our own TRG for MVP of the Month!