Hidden Gems: Meet Deborah Monterrosa of Dirty School of Skate

Today we’d like to introduce you to Deborah Monterrosa.

Hi Deborah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers. 
I am a 3rd generation roller skating instructor and lifelong skater (figure, freestyle, outdoor, dance, speed, derby, park, rhythm). My parents, grandparents, siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles have all been involved in the sport of roller skating. I grew up in my family’s roller rink, where I started my first job at age 8 (circa 1976). I spent my youth in the rink and then ventured outward for college and finding future employment. As some do, I circled back to my roots as I discovered that many jobs are downright soul-sucking. I re-entered the world of roller skating via my participation in roller derby at the age of 36. I began teaching “how to roller skate” when I realized that many roller derby skaters were all heart with no technique. I lived life as a roller derby player, league leader, skate shop owner, TV/media personality, and teacher for 8 years. I traveled the world and taught skating in 14 different countries as well as at our sport’s largest convention, Roller Con, for the past 15 years. I then switched gears and settled back in at my family’s roller rink, where I began to create new classes, sessions, and events geared toward recreational skaters of all levels. At the rink, I was able to get back to figure, rhythm, fitness, show skating, outdoor hill skating skatepark skating, and ramp skating. I started the “Dirty School of Skate” YouTube channel that now boasts almost 300K followers and an Instagram of over 100k. These channels focus on teaching skaters how to skate, where to skate, what skates to buy, and even WHY to skate. My podcast “Dirty Talks” delves into the mental and emotional aspects of skating, giving guidance and inspiration for both the skating floor and life. I have consulted on many roller-skating projects and supported the growth of many skating facilities outside of my family’s rink. I believe in the saying “High tide raises all boats” and that if there are more facilities to host skating, more skaters will appear. My mission is to create as many new skaters as possible and let them experience the benefits to the mind, body, and soul. I have been told (and now believe) that I possess a unique ability to teach essential skating skills (with a strict focus on technical perfection) and to translate those skills into easy-to-understand concepts. My lessons and classes are filled with an atmosphere that is both humorous and inspirational. I owe this completely to my parents, who taught me. My goal is to continue to teach and develop our sport, our culture, and our lifestyle. I am proudly sponsored by Sure-Grip Roller Skates, Old Bones Therapy, S1 Helmets/Protective Gear, Surf City Skates, Back Beat Skates, and Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Smooth? No. Riddled with self-doubt and imposter syndrome? Yes. Surprising with growth, change, and development? Absolutely. Daring to quit my job (and a very good living) to teach skating full-time was a bad idea that saved my soul. I put myself in an uncomfortable financial situation to free myself. I taught for free to free myself. I grew more as I made less. I created more as I struggled. I earned my self-respect as I doubted myself. I listened to a few key people who believed in me and ran with it. I planted seeds, watered them, and watched it all grow. Now, I am secure financially, emotionally, and physically. I look forward with excitement, knowing that I am the one to create it. 

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Dirty School of Skate teaches you not only how to skate but also how to “win back” who you once were and develop anew. Roller skating is the discovery of self through movement and a builder of communities where adults (not just kids) can thrive together. When you venture into the world of skating, watch out. You may lose yourself in how good it is. Building your self-esteem through overcoming skating challenges has positive repercussions in every aspect of your life. 

www.dirtyschoolofskate.com – for all class descriptions 

We have classes and sessions for all skaters. YOU need to check out my favorite though, “R&B in the Morning” on Wednesdays 10 am-1 pm at the Fountain Valley Skating Center. You will encounter the best adult crowd and more than a few advanced seniors who will roll circles around you. 

What do you like and dislike about the city?
The vastness of physical space, culture, food, sport, etc. The competitive nature creates new businesses, experiences, and ideas. The weather allows outdoor living all year long. The beach, desert, and mountains. Dislikes? Why bother? No need to focus on that. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dirtyschoolofskate.com
• Instagram: @dirtydeborahharry
• Facebook: Dirty Deborah Harry
• Youtube: Dirty School of Skate

Image Credits
@apexpete
@stormjury