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Think roller derby is simply a bunch of folk racing around in circles hitting each other?

Well, okay, you could be PARTLY correct. But there is a bit more to the sport than just cruising and bruising!

I joined a roller derby team about 3 years ago as a way to break out of my fitness routine and meet some new people. It was the last thing any of my chums or family thought I had ever do – which explains why it was a perfect choice. I needed to get far outside my comfort zone, and in the act I realized that deep down inside there was a derby girl hollering to get out.

First of all, I do not fit into the stereotypical roller derby gal.

I am not covered in tattoos, I sure don’t blast punk music, and I certainly haven’t got multiple piercings distributed around my body.

But naturally those are all just false perceptions of what we’re all about. In fact, my team consists of girls of every age and backgrounds, from a young uni student studying biology to a middle-aged mother of two with a gusto for collecting rare coins.

Roller derby seems to be enduring a renaissance of late, with many girls stopping by our weekly practices to see what we’re all about.

Besides the increased participation, there also looks to be numerous fans coming out to support us. I consider the fans to be an extended member of our team. They’re always hollering and entertaining, bringing a thrilling level of energy to the game. Without the fans, the entire experience would be very different.

I was told that roller derby was first created back in the 1930s mainly as an endurance competition. Someplace along the line all of the hard-knocks and insane escapades were thrown in to attract audiences.

Well, it feels like that competitive spirit has lasted all these years, and can be seen at any specific derby night.

My colleagues and competitors may lead fairly ordinary lives, but when we get out there on the skating rink, our personas take on a whole new personality. When I step out there and start rolling there’s a sudden fierceness and drive that takes over. I adore it, and it’s absolutely addictive.

So whether you may be brave enough to lace up your skates and join us for one or two laps, or are content with simply howling from the sidelines, roller derby is something that you really just have to see personally!

For skating parties, inline hockey and roller derby action, check out dLook’s range of roller skating and ice rinks.