<![CDATA[muddy river rollers - moncton roller derby - muddy river blogger]]>Sun, 20 May 2012 04:42:45 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Reines of Beast]]>Wed, 09 May 2012 08:55:32 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2012/05/reines-of-beast.htmlMuddy River Rollers kicked of their season with their first ever appearance of our home team, Reines of Terror at Beast of the East 2o12 in Montreal. Our first game was lost to the Vicious Dishes (who would go on to claim the tournament trophy) with a score of 139 - 0. Our second and last game was played against Babes of Thunder who scored 71 points to our 34. For full tournament results, be sure to visit Canuck Derby TV.   

I often heard  this past weekend was that our team has heart.  I have to agree, even if I am one of those players that are being praised. I learned so many things this weekend, but the one thing I witnessed, over and over, was the impressive drive and determination of 14 skaters still very new to the sport of flat track derby. There were even a couple of women on the roster where this was their first bout ever, and you would have never known it to see them play. Even if the scoreboard didn't reflect it, every teammate showed a level of skill that exhibited the months of training prior to Beast.

This tournament became a huge focus for our League, and a large number of them did not attend, yet supported those of us that did with enthusiasm.  Practices centred around perfecting skills, and off-skates practices were added. We really stepped up our training and commitment. Being a young league means having a lot of firsts. We tend to go at those with a mixture of fear and excitement, and probably a heavy dose of naiveté. It's what gives MRR that edge.  It's why we have heart. It's that very unique mixture that makes us dance, even when we're losing.

I'd like to take a second to pay special attention to all of those involved in making this such a brilliantly positive and memorable experience for me. The skaters that I shared the track with hold a special place in my heart, for I admire them all. Our coach is such a valuable addition to our team, and it was a thrill to have Quadzilla as a bench manager. The fans that came with us to Montreal were the best of the best. There is nothing like seeing a friendly face in the crowd! The fans back home, sending texts and tweets and love and support overwhelmed not just me, but so many other players. My favourite was being called "awesomesauce", because I felt like it, being surrounded by such incredible players and fans!  Mr. Freeze and the Icicles are my biggest fans, so they get an extra shout out…but they are just as supportive as all of the the derby widows and orphans out there!  From start to finish, this event was amazing. Hats off to Montreal Roller Derby for organizing and executing such a well-run tournament.  

Be sure to check our season schedule and come and see for yourself just what everyone was talking about this past weekend! No matter what team they play for, whether it's Reines of Terror, Daughters of Anarchy or the Lumbersmacks, it's all the same heart…a Muddy River Roller heart. ]]><![CDATA[So the only thing you'll catch is the Jammer]]>Wed, 21 Mar 2012 11:12:28 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2012/03/so-the-only-thing-youll-catch-is-the-jammer.htmlBout season is coming for most of us in the Maritimes, which means that right now it is cold and flu season.  It's really hard not to catch whatever is going around when we come into such close contact with one another, especially when it takes nothing short of death to keep us away from practice.  So, I thought I'd share some tips and products that can either prevent or help you get through the 'plague'.

For starters, don't come to practice.  If you think you're not contagious but your nose is red, your sinuses are running, and your eyes are barely open, it's a sign that your body is fighting the virus.  Therefore, you're still contagious.  A work-out will do you good, but maybe a nice run on the treadmill might be a better idea.   I know you're an adult, so the choice is ultimately yours whether to come to practice, but keep in mind that with a compromised immune system, you're likely to catch another virus going around, and then your team will just keep sharing this thing back and forth until your off-season.  That's also not me sitting in criticism of anyone who has come to practice sick, bless your heart, no.  It's just advice for the future.

There are a lot of prevention aids on the market.  Many of them are highly effective and well regulated: 
  • Cold FX is a common one, and despite recent claims that it could promote cancer, there is no viable source studies to support this.
  • Natural Factors makes both and AntiViral and an AntiCold.  They come in a tincture, or capsule.  I highly recommend the capsule, unless you like potent tasting liquid.
  • Daily consumption of vitamin D3 supplements are known to boost the immune system.  At our latitude in Eastern Canada, the sun is not strong enough at this time of year to give us what our bodies need, so even if you brave the cold and enjoy the outdoors, it's just not enough.  There are many supplements on the market.  I prefer drops over capsules.  Natural Factors offers one, but I also like Inno-Vite since it has vitamin K2 as well, which aids in the absorption of D3
  • Emergen-C is a really great product, especially for vegans needing B vitamins.  It offers 1000mg of vitamin C which is essential for boosting the immune system.  It's an effervescent powder that comes in a variety of flavours.  We like the pink lemonade in our household.
  • Sisu makes an immune booster called Stressmune which is fantastic if you work in high stress environments.  Not only does it boost the immune system, it's known to increase energy and improve mood.
The best way to boost your ability to ward off contagious diseases is to build a kick-ass immune system.  There are a number of ways to accomplish it, but there are 4 basics:

  1. Diet is key.  I'm not going to recommend any "-ism" or "-ian" lifestyle over another.  It's important to find what your body thrives on, and nutritional content is the most important part.  To get the amount of vitamins the body needs is to eat a balanced diet, with large quantities of vegetables and fruits and whole grains.   Soups and smoothies are a great way to get much needed nutrients if you're not otherwise a big fan of veggies.  Fret not, beer/wine/spirits are part of a balanced diet, but keep in mind that they are all immune suppressing.  Moderation is usually the fastest path to balance.

  2. Sleep is a huge factor towards creating optimum health.  Caffeine, alcohol, sugar, wakeful children, unbalanced eating, and varying bed-times/morning alarms all contribute towards sleep disturbances.  Try to create a better pattern than the one you have now, and don't rely on sleep aids on a regular basis.  If you're an insomniac, I can guarantee that tweeting about it or updating your Facebook status at 4 a.m. is going to do nothing to help matters.  Keep electronics out of your bedroom.

  3. Reducing stress can go a long way to help stay healthy.  Most times that is actually not realistic, and efforts to do so may even contribute to higher levels.  But, your body has these amazing glands called adrenals, and they do have their limits.  They are a little like the body's  batteries.  Running them empty will have drastic results, often worse than a cold or the flu.  Meditation and relaxation both go a long way towards supporting your adrenal glands.  It takes very little, so build a little Zen into your daily routine.

  4. Exercise is just plain magic.  So, you already have one of the keys to good health in hand just by skating a couple of times a week.  I suggest about 35 minutes of moving your body every day if you want to see it have a superior effect on your overall health.

In the unfortunate case that you do get sick:
  • Boil or throw out your toothbrush once you are feeling better
  • Soak your derby mouthguard (polident works wonders, and I recommend this one whether you're sick or not)
  • Drink a tea made of 1tbsp grated fresh ginger, the juice of half a lemon, and a tbsp honey frequently throughout the day
  • Chicken soup has a mountain of scientific proof to back up claims that it can reduce cold and flu symptoms
  • Remember that no "cure" out there will shorten the duration of cold and flu but many will lessen the symptoms
  • Use a neti pot. Trust me.  I know you hate the idea, but it can clear a sinus infection without use of antibiotics and it can reduce mucus significantly.  So get over it, run some salt water through your nose and wriggle and make faces for the 5 minutes it takes, or go through 5 boxes of kleenex in as many days.  I always vote minor short-term discomfort for long term gain
  • Add a tsp eucalyptus oil to a bowl of boiling water and let the steam help with your breathing and stuffiness.  Use a menthol rub on the soles of your feet before bed and it can sometimes sooth nighttime coughing.
  • Stay hydrated.  Sports drinks are often recommended, and while they are good for replacing electrolytes they have more sugar than soda, and are full of artificial colouring.  Try drinking coconut water instead, or make your own electrolyte replacement mixture using the juice of a lemon and an orange, a squirt of honey, four shakes of salt mixed with 8oz water.  Foods that aid as well are avocados, broccoli, and apricots.
  • Get well soon!
It's really important to note that I do not work for any of the above companies mentioned.  These are only recommendations based on my own personal experience and as a result of research and product use.  Please work closely with your own wellness team to determine if the products are right for you. Take special care if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a compromised immune system to consult your health care professional before incorporating any of these products into your wellness regime.  

Happy Healing!
]]><![CDATA[I Remember What Fresh Meat Feels Like; I'm Still Rare]]>Fri, 09 Mar 2012 14:47:02 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2012/03/i-remember-what-fresh-meat-feels-like-im-still-rare.htmlI've been skating with the Muddy River Rollers for just over a year now. I came in like most other members, without skills, or even a clear knowledge of how the sport of roller derby is even played. I didn't own any gear, and I wasn't even aware of what stuff I would need to play. My first time out was a mixture of nervousness, fear, excitement, and merriment. I walked into our practice space knowing only two members of the team. They welcomed me, pointed to the loaner gear, and as simple as that, my derby career was started. I put my wrist guards on upside-down the first try, but it was only a moment before a perfect stranger came to my rescue.  

I wish I could say that I took to skating like a duck to water, but it was really more like a duck to roller skates. I believed that since I had roller skated frequently as a teen, and since I've had my own ice skating rink in the backyard for 5 years running that I would be able to pick up derby relatively easy. I was a little surprised that it wasn't the case. I was also equally surprised when by the end of my first practice I had learned to do a plough stop instead of running into the wall, and not only did I understand the term "sticky skate" I could do it a little.  Keep in mind, I'm the baby steps version of Fresh Meat.  At the same time, I am now a blocker on the Reines of Terror.  It would be fair for me to say "if I can do it, anybody can"!

In the coming year I would learn many skills, drills, personalities, and the undercurrent of the derby world. I watched other Fresh Meat strap on skates and run circles around me within days. I found others that took to it with the same pace as I was. I saw something interesting that I never noticed during my first few times on skates. I was so busy working on staying up on 8 wheels than falling on the floor that I didn't notice what a diverse crowd of women are drawn to the sport of derby. It took me a bit to see that we have women of every size, age, athletic ability, profession, and a grocery list of other traits that set each of us apart. One thing they did have in common was their willingness to teach me to skate.  

Since I've joined the Muddy River Rollers, I've encouraged all of my friends to try it.  Even if it's only for fun and to learn how to skate. MRR has grown to include over 65 members. With our current Learn to Skate program we are building an even stronger and more exciting league.  We will be recruiting again later this season or early into next year. Keep visiting the webpage for updates. No matter what time of the season though we are always recruiting NSOs, and if you check out the Hub City Derby Officials you'll be able to get in on that action as well!  ]]><![CDATA[Roller Derby - then and now]]>Mon, 12 Sep 2011 10:15:53 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2011/09/roller-derby-then-and-now.htmlOur League has a really great private page where we discuss all sorts of details that pertain to running events, practices, fundraisers, parties, and our social lives.  But this past week, a thread caught the attention of almost every one of our members and it has been running like wildfire ever since.  It has even spilled off the page into real conversation and a lot, and I mean A LOT of jaw dropping.

Recently, a user from our muddyriverrollers.com webpage sent us an anonymous message that shocked our webmistress Brandy Swifter so much that she posted it on our private discussion page, and it read (unedited), in reference to women's roller derby:

"I am disgusted that this is allowed in our society.

I thought canadians were against violence against women and expolitation of women for mens entertainment."  

Really?  I mean, really?  It's rare that I am shocked for words, but when the comments started flying and Brandy Swifter suggested that I blog about it, Eve McQueen stated "If she's not interested - I would totally write about it. When I first heard of derby, as a feminist, I wasn't all that down with what I thought the idea of it was, a year later I've obviously been converted :)".  At that point I agreed that I would not only blog about it, but I would blog the hell out of it.  There are probably more than just black and white opinions on this statement and I am curious what they are.  My own is simple: women's flat track roller derby is empowering to women, and there is no oppressor.  It seems that most of the women I play with agree.

Ms Hate's response to the comment was "Funny, because to me this was a natural thing to do as a feminist. Sexuality on our own terms, and tough girl attitudes."  Some humour popped in with Dr Johnny Capote (a well known derby league advisor, www.canuckderbytv.com) when he asked that if that comment were indeed true "does that make me a pimp?".  Floor Play was laughing when she said "aaahh, how I could rant about that comment.  This person is obviously unaware of the term 'Derby Love'"  On a more serious note, Eternal Glamnation retorted "‎'Allowed'...what a great word. We don't need permission and we certainly don't need censorship."  Smasherella echos that in saying "I feel more empowered as a woman, more confident as a whole because of derby. Anyone who gives it a chance quickly realizes it's not all about skating and hitting".

Now, derby has really evolved from what it was in the 1970's  Many members of our community who have never seen a recent game ask us, "Is that like with the clothes-lining and women beating each other up?"  No, it's not.  It's a team sport that requires strategy, endurance, strength, speed, a sense of humour and a tough skin.  The goal is for 2 scoring players (called Jammers) to get through a pack of 8 (4 friendly and 4 opponents, called Blockers).  Physical contact is necessary for this to happen.  Players will be pushed and shoved and often knocked down so that the Jammers can score points.  It is not for the entertainment of our fans, male or female.  We love our fans with an obsessive passion, but honestly we would, and do, play derby even if they aren't there.

Violence is defined as the use of physical force to apply a state to others contrary to their wishes.  Stepping onto a derby track gives all players permission to use whatever force necessary, within the strict guidelines of the 31 pages of WFTDA rules, to block the opposing team and to score points.  That's not called violence, that's called Derby.  I'm proud to be a Canadian who is against violence against women.  In fact, I think you should visit this website to get a better perspective on what true violence against women is: www.cdnwomen.org/EN/section05/3_5_1_1-violence_facts.html

I really believe that everyone has the right to their opinion.  I'm just disappointed when ignorance is what fuels a comment.  Had they not posted anonymously, the Muddy River Rollers would have gifted two free tickets for the user to come see what modern day derby is all about!
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]]><![CDATA[My gear stinks...]]>Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:26:33 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2011/09/my-gear-stinks.htmlI hate admitting this, but my gear stinks.  One night at practice, moments after taking off my skates, one of the most beautiful of our players says "what the f--- is that smell?"  I told her it was my skates.  When she didn't believe me I held them a little closer to her and she said "yup, it's sweat."  I make no excuses for the scent of my gear, only apologies.  At the same time. I'm not the only lady in the locker room whose skates come off smelling less than roses so I thought it would be a good idea to share my gear cleaning journey with you.  I do believe I have tougher than average odours.  I also have a limitation to what I use because I skate bare footed and am sensitive to the chemicals that I will absorb into my system as soon as my feet start to sweat.  

When I first came across this problem it was very minor.  After all, my gear was brand new, and simply airing was enough for it.  It took awhile before we started to search for the dead animal in the house.  Once the culprit was discovered to be my gear bag then it was a simple process of washing gear immediately after practice, including the bag, and leaving it all to air dry.  That lasted for awhile, and then the honeymoon was over.  Sunlight became my newest friend.  I would wash the gear and lay it in the sunshine, including the skates with their laces open as wide as they could go and the tongues hanging out.  Finally, a solution that was simple, and healthy.  As much as I continued to clean my gear though, I also continued to sweat every practice, and I added some gaskets to the mix.  It made matters worse and soon, no matter what I was doing, nothing was getting the smell out.

Then, it was Google to the rescue.  After all, I cannot be the only one with this issue.  I was right.  It's a huge issue, and there are hundreds of solutions.  Among them were all those listed above.  So, I started trying some of the simplest ones.  I found a bottle of Fabreeze™ and sprayed all of my gear  liberally.  I ended up with a migraine the next two practices.  I then filled my skates and coated my pads with baking powder and left them to sit for hours to absorb the smell.  It made no difference.  A few sports products exist on the market to eliminate odours and kill bacteria, and they just don't make a difference, and they also led to migraines.   I tried washing the pads and spraying my skates with three different kinds of vinegar and it made no difference.  Isopropyl alcohol was one of the highest advised products out there to kill athlete odour in its tracks.  It never was up against my gear before because, it made no difference.  I considered bleach at one point, but even if it did kill bacteria, it was going to deteriorate everything at a rapid rate if used consistently.  Somebody recommended Gold Bond Powder.  So again I filled up my skates for hours, vacuumed them dry and put my nose too close to unfortunately discover, you guessed it, no difference.  I even tried vodka (such a sad waste) and the smell was still so bad that my husband thought someone may have vomited in the van after I had skated the PRIDE parade with my teammates.

I had nearly given up though when I jokingly said "maybe gin will work better".  So, after soaking my skates in the laundry tub with a generous portion of gin and a moderate portion of natural laundry detergent, I am proud to admit that my gear finally smells less like roadkill and more like beloved equipment.  I think the essential oils in the detergent might be key too.  It was a matter of finding just the right chemistry for my own body type.  And, I am very grateful, because I was seriously considering investing in all new gear.  Yes, it was that bad.  I think I might market my cleaner and call it Skate Martini®.]]><![CDATA[Running away from the derby monster]]>Thu, 04 Aug 2011 07:29:42 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2011/08/running-away-from-the-derby-monster.htmlThe best place for me to go for a run is up at the lake. The road is hilly, the trees arch overhead, and it takes very little to quiet my mind. A few steps into the dense woods and I'm greeted by birdsong and an incredible quiet. There is no traffic, and rarely do I even encounter other people. My mind is able to wander and come back to the surroundings, and I listen to the rhythm of my foot falls and the way the gravel crunches underfoot. I smell lush leaves and always find roadside wild raspberry bushes. A squirrel or a rabbit scurries away as I pass by, and then I finally feel it… I've stopped thinking about Derby.

Once I learned that the Derby Monster was a real creature, I quickly started to search for ways to tame the Beast. I don't really mind how all-consuming the sport can be, but I think that balance is essential to a healthy life. It can be hard to find that when everything on your calendar is roller skate-centric. I even find that my once regular chiropractic appointments have shifted to minor track related-injury treatments. A full body massage at the spa sometimes turns into a painful reminder of every fall and hit on areas I don't even remember landing on or crashing into. So, it can be hard to quiet the mind, even when actively trying to.

It's vital to find that balance. It can make you a better skater, committee member, teammate, and friend. So how to do it? Here are some simple ideas:
  • Carve out time for yourself. Add it to your calendar in an appointment fashion so that it's blocked off, and nothing can interfere with it.  Treat it with the same value as you do a practice, or a bout.

  • Don't volunteer for everything. Your league needs you, but if you are burnt out six months from now, it won't matter that you attended every event and were Most Valuable Volunteer. In direct opposition, if you never volunteer for anything (I know and respect all the reasons why you don't), make a point to at the next function. It really contributes to a healthy sense of community.

  • Meditate. It doesn't have to be where you sit cross-legged on a cushion with incense burning and pan-flute playing in the background (unless that's your thing, and in that case, have at 'er).  But daily, there should be a time and place where you deliberately slow down, quiet your mind, and focus inward. It will contribute to your well-being and your sense of balance.  

  • Get some sleep. So many things get in the way of sleeping soundly. Late night practices shift body rhythms, and after practice drinking can interrupt your sleep patterns. I'm not suggesting not to have fun, but if you find yourself lacking energy and looking for ways to not be overwhelmed by the Beast, then this might be a good area to examine.

  • Eat some real food (that's fruits, vegetable and whole grains), and plan some healthy eating for days that you will be skating. Derby is fun and playful, but it is a sport and it makes demands on your body. Feed those muscles, ligaments and systems that are working hard. It will reduce your amount of injuries, speed your recovery time, and increase your endurance both on and off the track.

  • Be positive. This is a hard one to master, but it can shift the focus of league issues that effect you directly and that's the real goal. If you believe that things could be done differently and better, then you really should speak up. Remember though, criticism rarely garners results without offering a solution. Make a point to praise those that are doing the work, even if you feel it could be changed for the better.

  • Hydrate. You know how much you drink during a practice?  You actually should be drinking like that all day long. Nothing affects mood more than being dehydrated. If you're cranky, reach for a drink (martinis, coffee and caffeinated beverages don't count).

  • Learn to take a compliment. Praise does wonders for self-esteem. If someone is taking the time to point out your brilliant abilities, it's because you are worthy. Don't undermine yourself by talking them out of the compliment. It might be hard to say thank you at first, but it gets easier and you'll come to learn that it actually contributes to your overall health!
]]><![CDATA[Read it and win :)]]>Tue, 12 Jul 2011 05:15:48 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2011/07/read-it-and-win.htmlDid you know that Saturday, July 16th is "I Love Roller Derby Day"?  Well, it is! We think that's fitting since we'll be kicking off the first day of training and exhibition bouts in our First Annual Muddy River Atlantic JAMboree. We are so excited to be hosting teams from all across Atlantic Canada. skaters, referees and non-skating officials will be joining us from Ottawa, Fredericton, St John, Halifax, Newfoundland, PEI, Ottawa, and Dieppe.

Learning the ins and outs of how to create an event of this proportion has been a most incredible experience. Derby experts Dr. Johnny Capote, Georgia W. Tush, Lime, and Viv the Shiv are making a special trip to bring their knowledge to our Atlantic leagues. They have been invaluable in helping us along, every step of the way. League creator and President of MRR, Burn'n Rub'her has been tirelessly attending to every detail imaginable, and all with her award-winning smile! There is a small core group of women who are at every meeting, practice, fundraiser, and community event and they are the heart of our League. We inspire one another to want to make this event the one that is talked about for years to come!

Derby girls are impatient by nature. It might be the very thing that draws them to this fast-paced, no-apology sport! This weekend of training is going to challenge that very notion. We'll have to remind one another that the person running the score-board has never done it before. The goal isn't to have perfectly run jams; it's to offer the freedom to learn a new skill in a low-pressure setting. It's about sharing personal knowledge with each other. And, not just from the trainers to the participants, but among one another. The goal is to learn, and to have fun while doing it.  

To the public, I hope you'll come down to the Red Ball Internet Centre on Saturday, July 16th from 1:30pm - 7:30pm and Sunday, July 17th from 1pm - 6pm to see all of the amazing Atlantic roller derby leagues show off their skills and what they have learned. The venue itself is fun as they have a full bar upstairs and they allow you to bring your beverages right down to the track. For the first time ever, we are on the large rink that has full seating, but we're still encouraging you to bring your chairs and floor pillows to the suicide seating. It's an event for all ages, and kids under 10 get in FREE! A single day entrance is $10.00, or $15.00 for a weekend pass. They can be purchased at Spin-It, Cut Throat Pizza, online, or at the door.  If you're lucky, and you comment on this blog you could win 2 free weekend passes. Draw to be held on Thursday July 14th at 10:10am.]]><![CDATA[MRR and C103]]>Mon, 04 Jul 2011 05:25:04 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2011/07/mrr-and-c103.htmlIn a day mixed with summer sunshine, and a drenching downpour, a number of our very own MRR skaters became part of local Classic Rock Radio Station C103's street team. Our league is branching out all over the place, and in an effort to spread the word, we've partnered with the amazing people at C103. A small group of us donned our skates, wearing station t-shirts and carrying stickers and temporary tattoos and we went out in search of fans for both the station and roller derby.  

What's amazing is that if you are handing out anything on the downtown streets of Moncton while wearing street shoes, it's hard to get attention. The girls of Muddy River Rollers learned a long time ago that if you take to the streets in your skates, that the public will actually come to you, and they want to know what you're doing rolling around town.  Tonight was no different… we took to the streets and shared the excitement of Canada Day with the people of Moncton. We handed out stickers to promote their social summer, and helped little ones add C103 logos to their cheeks and hands. While doing that we were able to promote our upcoming JAMboree on the 16th and 17th of July at the Red Ball Internet Centre.

All night long we encountered people eager to know more about the sport, and excited to get the free give-aways from the radio station. Questions from young and old were posed to us about things as simple as how we can skate in fishnets, to intricate details about the rules of play. We dropped in to favourite sponsors Cut Throat Pizza for dinner, and even later in the night to St. James Gate. The one thing we are learning is that our community is at the heart of our sport.  Without our sponsors we would not be able to host events like the Muddy River Atlantic JAMboree. Without our fans, we would simply be a great group of ladies rolling around a flat track.

The night ended with most of the new street team being happily tired. We learned that a few roads in downtown Moncton are really hard to skate on, but most of them are exciting.  We found out that skating in the rain is a challenge, but if you keep moving you can almost dodge the raindrops. We found out what we had suspected up to this point was true… Moncton, and surrounding area is embracing this new sport and they want to come watch us play. Muddy River Rollers are no longer Moncton's best kept secret, and C103 might just be the ones responsible for letting that cat out of the bag!
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Photo of MRR members; Georgia Scorewell, Pink Punisher, Beretta Lyn, Hells Belle, Elle Frozen Over and Jemanda Maulograms. Credit goes to Sara, from the C103 Summer 2011 album on Facebook.
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There is no such thing as free-time when it comes to roller derby. There is not one of us on our league who has more free-time than another. We might perceive that somebody does, but when it really comes down to it, how we spend our time not tending to responsibilities is subjective.  

I remember after having children wondering what I did with all of my spare hours. I think I must have read novels, and gone on long walks, or headed out for a bike-ride only to return 3 hours later. But, that all seemed like a distant memory once I had my children. I think it's the same with derby. Eight wheels on your feet has an interesting way of transforming your life. Ask any derby girl and they will say the same thing. It's universal; the derby monster will eat your life.  We even have a term for the unfortunate spouses who love us, bruises and all. We call them "Derby Widows". I've taken to calling my teen daughters "Derby Orphans". Those friends I had, pre-skate days, they may even be "The Long Lost Ones", and I may only see them when I have a bout and they come to watch!
A really fantastic derby-centric movie was released in 2oo9, and it drummed up a lot of enthusiasm for the sport. It was fun, and exciting, and touched on the camaraderie that exists naturally when women take to a track. In my opinion, it lacked one little detail, and it's a big one. It's something called "Committee Time". There is so much that goes on behind the scenes that has little to do with skate tools, fish nets, and a hip whip. A league is an organization, run by a Board of Directors, and fuelled by the enthusiasm for the sport.  It is complex, and demands skill, intelligence, a sense of humour, and the ability to be flexible.  

Forgive me for stereotyping, but keep in mind the women who are drawn to this sport. They are strong-minded and willful. They know what they want and just how to get it. So, it can be difficult to navigate all of the roles necessary in running a league. There are social events, community events, fundraising events to the point that the word 'event' just might give you a twitch. Being in the league is a real time commitment. It's worth every minute you spend though.  Feel the rush of pushing your jammer through the pack to get 5 points and it all makes sense. Being the jammer and getting through the pack for the 5th time in a bout and all of a sudden the contracts you wrote for the JAMboree fade to a distant memory. Like anything else in life, hard work pays off. So, just a reminder to those that we push to help… your efforts will always be rewarded.
]]><![CDATA[Derby gives you wings]]>Tue, 24 May 2011 04:37:52 -0400http://muddyriverrollers.com/2/post/2011/05/derby-gives-you-wings.htmlI didn't know I could fly.  What a feeling!  It was a mixed emotion though.  I don't know how many players went down in front of me, but I could see no way out.  Stopping wasn't an option because there just wasn't time.  It all happened in a split second.  My shin made contact with 4 wheels and both my legs went out behind me and I dove head first with a helmet cracking thud.  For a fraction of a second I was fully airborne, and had I not landed on other players, I would say it was pure fun.  My jaw bounced off a shoulder, I knocked the wind out of myself, and I looked under me fearfully to find someone else saying at the same time "are you okay?"  Okay, I lied…it was pure fun.  

To be even more honest, that's not what derby is about.  It might be what the fans come to see, but that is not the fun side of derby.   Seriously.  What is really fun is to catch the eye of another blocker, plan a strategy, and carry it out.  It is about throwing a clean block, where you knock the other derby girl clean off the track and the ref makes a "no penalty, no foul gesture".   I'm still fresh meat and I will not pretend otherwise, but I'm learning so much more than skills.

Everything happens in two speeds on the track.  One speed is the kind that leaves you flying through the air, but it probably won't help your Jammer make points whatsoever.  The other speed is when the real action happens.  It's where the sport part of the entertainment happens.  It's when you watch a Jammer effortlessly slip through a wide path created by her teammates.  It's really when you see a play that you have practiced in drills over and over work!  

Nobody comes into derby to just practice.  We all come to play.  The competition is no different from us.  We all talk strategy, and of winning and of fair play.  We watch other teams.  We study other bouts.  We look to see what works, and what doesn't.  There's a truth to every game.  One team will win and one will lose.  I make no apology to wanting to be on the winning side!
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