Mark D'Amato
by Rich Besser
This interview was performed early 2002. He stayed in character to the end. Mark has since passed away March, 2002.
Where were you born and how old are you now? Do you have any siblings?
I was born in New Haven Conn. and I am 46 years old. Yes, I have a brother who is 43. Name? Oh! I don't want to give it.
Are you married?
No
What are you hobbies?
Oh, (breathing with a sigh) I'm not sure. It's 9:00 in the morning and I'm just waking up. Would you like to do the interview at another time? No, let's continue.
When did you learn to skate?
At 15 years old.
When did you become a professional Roller Derby player and a star?
Ah, a couple of years after skating.
What team were you on?
Ah, Texas Outlaws.
What team did you feel you got your notoriety?
Texas Outlaws
What Roller Derby outfits have you skated for?
Roller Games was the biggest and then RollerJam.
What attracted you to the sport?
Oh I am not sure. Oh this is some thing I wanted to do. You know it's too early for me to answer this question.
How did you get involved with RollerJam?
I got a phone call from a friend named Tom. He was involved with RollerJam and asked me if I was interested.
What teams have you been on?
Roller Games: Outlaws, Bombers, Devils and Hawks
RollerJam: the Enforcers
ARDL: all teams.
When did you become a captain of a team?
Until the mid 90's
I noticed that when you were skating with RollerJam that you look like a wrestler (very muscular). How much exercise do you do on a weekly basis?
I go about 5 x's a week for an hour.
What kind of workouts do you do?
I work out on the weights and do cardio.
What other careers/jobs are you doing when not skating?
Oh that's easy. I owned a bar and I was also a bartender. Right now i'm not working.
What was the funniest situation that happened to you in skating in RollerJam, Roller Games, or ARDL?
Let's see, RollerJam, Roller Games is all scripted. ARDL is not, but anyway nothing, not at all.
What was the worst situation, ...."
Oh, I don't know , I can't think right now.
Have you ever been injured?
No, not really. I am in good health. A long time ago I had broken a collar bone, but that's it.
why do you think RollerJam folded?
It was time to fold. It went for 2 years and 160 episodes.
Who do you think was your toughest competitor?
Sean Atkinson.
What is it like competing against a younger skater like in their 20's?
Oh this is a no brainier! I am more confident and I have the experience.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Oh Ii don't think about that. I live day by day.
What is your rule of thumb?
The same...live day to day.
If you had anything to say to the fans what would that be?
Oh, (heavy sigh) just shine that.
That's what you would say to the fans?
No shine that question!
If you had anything you would like to say to an opponent skater what would that be?
Oh, (heavy sigh)ie...
Gallagher said for you to hang up your skates and go back to the nursing home you belong to.
Oh shine that question!
D'Amato,..... thanks for the interview