Derby
Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 10:12AM You know how sometimes I will mention something on this here blog, and then you never hear about it again?
Yeah, that’s because I didn’t follow through on it.
But you know how I mentioned going to a roller derby signup night a while ago, and then you never heard about it again?
That is because I was waiting to see if I was GOING to follow through with it.
And I did. And I am. I’m a real live aspiring derby girl, y’all.
(Having now announced it to you, I will likely break an ankle at my next practice. Oh, Universe, I am SO ON TO YOUR GAME.)
I adore it. Who knew? I mean, as much as I can love it without having actually played a game. Apparently it’s recommended that you learn to skate first.
Fishnets and superhero names* aside, it’s a real sport, not the T&A spectacles from the 70s. There are a buttload of rules, it takes actual skill, and it’s a killer workout. I feel stronger after every practice.
(Okay, not right after every practice. Immediately following each practice I feel like vomiting, eating an entire chicken dinner, and laying down on the couch to twitch, not necessarily in that order.)
But it does make me feel strong, as opposed to working out in order to feel “skinny”. It makes me feel like I can kick butt and take charge in other areas of my life. That’s probably a typical side effect of team sports, but honestly, this is the first one I’ve ever participated in. I’ve always been a “swimming or running or maybe playing squash” kind of girl. I’ve never really pushed the boundaries to learn a new skill.
I also love that all body types have a place in this sport – I’ve been watching the WFTDA 2011 Championships this weekend (live-streaming here), and there are big women, tall women, women who are so teeny they look like they’d break if you pushed them over. They’re all owning that track.
So that’s what’s going on with that. I’ll be sure to keep you all posted on any actual gameplay. (I’ll refrain from posting pics of the bruises on my ass.)
*My derby name is Stabitha. I knew you were going to ask.
Reader Comments (22)
Stabitha!! Excellent tough girl name. My eighteen-year old niece was in town last weekend and picked out Whip It! as a movie for us to watch. It's the one with Ellen Paige (?) as Babe Ruthless. I thought it was excellent and I loved the roller dames. I've never played team sports either and it's probably too late for my frail menopausal bones, but consider me a groupie.
That really is just all kinds of awesome. You picked a great thing to follow through on. Way to kick your comfort zone's ass. :)
Way to go on following through! Like the name. They can call you "Stabby" for short. Also awesome.
Woo hoo!!!
I know EXACTLY what you mean. I'm three months into rowing, had my first race, and I'm STRONG. I'm learning a new skill. I'm participating in my first team sport. It's amazing, so amazing, I want to pinch myself.
Keep going! No broken ankles, please!!! Kick ass.
Stabitha?! That is awesome! Good luck!
Congratulations on going through with it and becoming a Derby Girl!! That's awesome, and I love your handle!
I have a bestie that was with the OC Roller Girls for awhile (she just moved back to SF, and I have no idea of who she's with now) and she absolutely loves it.
Take names and kick some ass, Keely! :D
Hey! That is fantastic!!! Good for you! I am impressed! Bruises on your ass and all! You are one brave girl for sure. Can't wait to hear more!
Hugs
SueAnn
Holy ass weasels, you're officially my hero! I've wanted to try roller derby forever, but never had the balls. (Or the local skating rink.) Go kick ass, Stabitha! (And keep us posted. I need to punch some people vicariously through you!)
Ahhh, have I ever told you my Aunt was a roller derbie Queen back in the 40's? Too cool, now I can say I know two roller derbie girls. So, aside from the bruises, you're ass is totally rocking, huh?
Must see photos and know your superhero name ASAP!!!
I think this is pretty much the most awesome thing I've read in a while. I love that you're doing derby (i'm a little jealous, but my bad knees aren't), and that it's making you feel so strong and awesome!
roller derby was exactly what i was doing when i broke my foot and ankle. yep. exactly.
<3
STABITHA? Oh, Christ. I love you.
Ass shots! Bruises! Ass shots! Bruises! Bruises! (Hey, I'm a graphic designer. I'm a visual person.)
And yes, those chants were supposed to be read in a totally juvenile, tactless tone of voice.
So sneaky, Stabitha.
Way to go Stabitha! Roller Derby sounds kind of awesome. A good workout, it's fun, and you get to kick some ass. Enjoy it!
OH. MY. GOD. I can't even begin to tell you how much I love this! I am a derby fan! A few years ago, my sometime writing partner and I wrote a screenplay about a roller derby team in Stockton, Ca in 1972. It's full of weirdness and sex and violence. Good stuff! Of course we've never sold it. But still. I am DYING to see Stabitha in action!
Go, Stabitha!!
PS, I'm super proud of you.
Keely, you really are the most badassed chick I know. Keep that shit up, you are all kinds of cool.
You are living a fantasy of mine - way to go!