Richard Brown
By Rich Besser
When and where were you born?
1947 Oakland California
At what age did you learn how to skate?
4 years old
Were you in any skating competitions before Roller Derby?
No
When did you join Roller Derby or Roller Games (Griffiths league)?
I began training in 1960 at the age of 12, I also played in a Jet League.
Did you ever skate in the Seltzer league?
First in 1964 Bay Bomber, I skated in the afternoon June 24th, 1964 at Frank Youell Field where new skaters played, which was the 2nd game.
What teams were you on in chronological order?
1964 - Bombers, late 64/65 Roller Games. Hawaiian Warriors in 64/65, T-Birds 65-67. In 1967 back to the Hawaiian Warriors then in 67 Philadelphia Warriors until Oct 67. Oh, But I also skated in early 65 for Washington Wildcats, 70-72 Baltimore Washington Cats, after that Kansas City Bombers, and then went back in 72 to the Warriors, 73 to the T-Birds, 74 Warrior Cats.
What position did you play while in Roller Games and Derby?
Jammer, Blocker, Coach
Who has been your toughest opponent or competitive skater and why?
Mike Gammon because he is the best player in Roller Derby. I had to skate pound for pound with him and Larry Lewis in Roller Games. And as a blocker, Charlie O’Connell.
Which games did you enjoy skating in most and why?
Roller Games where I spent most of my career.
Have you ever been seriously injured?
Yes, I had torn two ligaments of the spinal column, broke both my wrists in Japan during 1995 and broke my ankle, in addition had my chest opened.
Did you win any trophies or awards for skating?
1965 MV Rookie
What other occupations have you been when you weren't skating?
20 years as a detective, security, Manager of Philadelphia Enquirer newspaper and I was also a security guard for the last republican convention.
Do you have any hobbies?
Tropical Fish
Do you enjoy traveling?
Love it, Hawaii and Japan
Are you married? Do you have any kids?M.
I am married, I have 6 children and 7 grandchildren.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Having my own restaurant in Philadelphia, Orlando and the Bay area with a piano bar.
What rule of thumb do you live by?
Do onto others as they do unto you.
If you had anything to say to the fans or other skaters what would that be?
FANS - Thank you! SKATERS - never give up!
Thank you, Richard, for the informative interview. It was an honor and a privilege interviewing one of the greatest skaters ever!!
Rich Besser.