Courtsey of Team North Carolina Womens Roller Derby

Roanoke Rapids Native Joanna Davis names Skater of the Week.

This weeks Skater of the Week is probably one of the HAPPIEST people I have ever met. Always upbeat and smiling and finds joy in the smallest things and when she is skating, her attitude is even more infectious. But don't let that fool you, she is a FEROCIOUS competitor.

From the Carolina Rollergirls, I present to you the one, the only, JoJo Gadget.

1) How long have you been playing derby?
 
I have been skating for 5 years. I took off one year to start my family an had the best thing ever happen to me. A beautiful 8lb 22inch long baby girl named Josie.
 Played sports all my life..college basketball an softball. Still play a little softball here an there. Soccer goalie for my hs soccer team..that was fun! Played roller hockey growing up an skated for the roller warriors speed skating team from age 13-17.
 
2) What teams have you played for?
 
I have been a part of the Carolina All Stars for 5 years..played on the Bootleggers. And now I also play for Team North Carolina.

3) What is the origin of your derby name?
 
Jojo Gadget.. I got crazy foot work for a girl my size on skates!! That's the Gadget part. Jojo. .my name is Jo..anna . .Joanna haha.

- coaches note: I also know from insider info that her teammate Elektra Q-Tion was partly responsible for helping with the name.
 
4) How did you find derby?
 
I was the sports coordinator for the YMCA an the marketing director went an saw a game at Dorton an thought I would like it. So I sent an email to the team, found out when try outs were and boom..made it an never looked backed.
 
5) What positions do you play?
 
I usually block..on lane 4 outside.. but I also jam when they need me.
 
6) What is your preferred gear set up?
 
Helmet: Ummm...red helmet.
Pads: 187 all around.
Skates/Plates/wheels: Reidell boots..not even sure what my plates are..but I love them..and I can skate on any wheel..
 I have had my boot since I was 16, an I will not get another one until this one just falls apart. Best skate ever..I love it.
 
7) What is your favorite floor to skate on?
 
Of course..its in front of my home crowd at Dorton arena in Raleigh N.C. RAISE UP!!
 
-coaches note: I went a little different direction with this weeks photo because I feel it truly captures the essence of JoJo. I look at it and it just makes me smile.

This weeks photo is courtesy of Joshua Craig at Joshua R. Craig Photography.