Skate Smarter.
Hit Harder.
Roll With Confidence.
Private coaching, league practices, and beginner lessons from Otter's Skate School — Hudson Valley's premier roller derby coach.
Meet Otter – Your Coach on Quads
Hi, I'm Connor Ross, but on the track, they call me Otter.
I've been skating since I was 7 years old — with a background in inline speed skating and roller hockey before dedicating the last 12 years to high-level roller derby.
I started with the New York Shock Exchange, then ranked #3 in the world, and have competed at the MRDA National Championships.
I also served as manager for the Gotham Roller Girls home team: Brooklyn Bombshells and their C travel team The Terminators.
Now, I coach locally with the Hudson Valley Misfits, and I'm bringing that same energy, knowledge, and precision to skaters across the region.
Professional Coaching Services
From your first day on skates to championship-level competition, I'll meet you where you are and help you reach your goals.
New to Skating? Let's Get Rolling.
Otter's Skate School helps absolute beginners feel confident on quads — from strapping on your skates for the first time to learning your first derby moves.
- Balance and stopping techniques
- How to fall safely
- Intro to derby stance, turns, and rules
- No gear? No problem — we can help with that too
Unlock Your Next Level
Whether you're hitting a plateau or chasing championship-level skills, I'll help you refine your technique, track awareness, and competitive mindset.
- Agility, edgework, and blocking mechanics
- Positional strategy for jammers and blockers
- Custom drills, goal setting, and footage review
- One-on-one personalized coaching sessions
Team Practices That Drive Results
Hire me to run a full practice for your league — structured, purposeful, and fun. I'll work with your captains to craft practices that fit your team's goals.
- Full practice planning with warm-ups, drills, scrimmage
- Off-skates training or endurance options available
- Feedback provided to skaters and coaching staff
- Hudson Valley–based; willing to travel regionally
What Skaters Are Saying
Real results from real skaters who've worked with Otter's Skate School
"Since working with Otter, my speed, hits, and confidence in playing the game have noticeably improved. You know that feeling after a jam where you're like, "I did okay… but something was off"? Otter knows, and he explains it to you in a way that's clear, encouraging, and actually helps you get better. He's my go-to when I'm working on a skill and has been an incredible resource in helping me become a better skater and a teammate."