Are you intrigued by the world of roller derby and eager to gain firsthand wisdom from those who live and breathe this exhilarating sport? Look no further! We’ve gathered insights from the passionate members of Mid-State Roller Derby themselves. Read below to discover what made them interested in roller derby and what keeps them coming back.
What made you interested in roller derby?
As an out-of-state transplant, I knew I wanted to find a way to be active outside the gym where I get so bored, and I wanted to meet new people, but finding adult leagues can be tricky while assimilating to a new community. When I heard I could try roller derby in Central Wisconsin, I jumped at the chance! – evilOlive (skater)
I want to meet like-minded people in my area, get a chance to skate, and learn more about this awesome sport! – Vitamin C (skating official)
I’m not a big fan of running or the gym. Skating was a more exciting and engaging way for me to be active and challenge myself. I also wanted a social activity where I could hang out and connect with new people outside work or my family. – Elevator Music (skater)
I wanted to find a physical extracurricular to get my butt off the couch. – Spunky Nugget (retired skater/non-skating official)
I love skating and needed something to do just for me. – StalkHer (skating official)
For many, the thrill of gameplay is what keeps us coming back to the track time and time again. Every hit, block, and well-executed maneuver adds to the adrenaline rush that makes roller derby so addictive. The sense of camaraderie and teamwork, the rush of competition, and the sheer joy of skating all combine to create an experience that’s truly unlike anything else.
What made you want to join MSRD?
The support I get from this league in growing as both a player and an individual is priceless. – evilOlive (skater)
MSRD is an amazing community of athletes and volunteers who empower and support each other. I can’t believe these fascinating, kind, hilarious, tough, smart, amazing people let me hang out with them. It’s exactly what I was looking for and hoping for when I joined, and much more! – Elevator Music (skater)
It’s a very welcoming and helpful group of folks. – Vitamin C (skating official)
The people and the camaraderie at and after practices and games are just as thrilling as the roller derby action itself. – Euthanizer (skater)
They are the family I didn’t know I needed! – Cutthroat Cookie (skater)
What made you come back each week when you first started?
Advancing my skills and having fun with my teammates. – Nitro Glitterin’ (skater)
It’s empowering to practice fitness and strength-building with such a powerful group of people. I feel a great sense of accomplishment after every practice when I know I’ve pushed myself. – evilOlive (skater)
It’s a great group of folks who are warm, welcoming, and accepting of everyone. And it’s a great environment to keep improving my skills. – Jack B. Nimble (skater)
I loved seeing new skills and strategies click. – LollyPopYa (skater)
Roller derby helped push me outside my comfort zone and grow as a person. – Avanator (skater)
Your favorite part of the new skater classes?
How helpful and supportive everyone is. – Nitro Glitterin’
It was so much fun – I just wanted to keep skating! – Lilo & Stitches
What would you say to someone on the fence about trying roller derby?
Despite how scary and intimidating it can seem (everyone falls – nobody will laugh!), it is truly the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. – Knox Blox
Don’t knock it until you try it; it’s a blast! – Nitro Glitterin’
The unconditional support and love for one another on and off the track is amazing; you won’t regret joining this community. – Jeffrey (skater)
If you don’t know where you belong, there is a space for you in roller derby, and it’s really not as scary as it seems. – evilOlive
Joining a roller derby team can provide a supportive community, a great workout, and an opportunity to learn new skills while having a blast. Take the leap and try roller derby – you won’t regret it!