New Roller Derby Association Seeking Members

The Bermuda Roller Derby Association is looking for women over 18 who want to try something new and be challenged, and there is no need to already know how to skate.

A spokesperson from the Association said, “Learning to skate is a part of the whole experience. They need to be able to make at least one of two training sessions a week as there is a lot to learn

“So far Bermuda Roller Derby Association is made up of three people, three people with a vision to see women in Bermuda unleash their inner derby and try this amazing sport! We are Aruna, Sara and Mhairi.

“Mhairi goes by the skate name Flash Flood, and having played roller derby in the UK for two years, plans to coach the team. We also now have a growing list of people interested in playing or helping out.

“The game is played on an oval, flat track which is marked out with tape. Each team of fourteen players fields a line-up of five skaters to play each jam [mini game of maximum two minutes].

“Each line-up is composed of four blockers and one jammer. To locate a jammer on the track, look for a star on the helmet. The blockers skate in a pack near the other blockers, meanwhile the jammers start just behind the pack.

“The pack then skates in an anti-clockwise direction and the jammers race to get through the pack. The game is essentially a race between the two jammers but the blockers are in their way!

“The first jammer to get through the pack on the initial pass is established as lead jammer which means they can end the jam at any time. On the second pass through the pack, the jammers are eligible to score. How do they score? By legally passing a blocker and legally means that they do not make any illegal contact [e.g elbowing].

“Safety is key! You have to wear all safety equipment for all training sessions. The equipment is a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards. Also, there is a mouth guard once you start training with contact. Of course you are going to fall, a lot! But the equipment really does help and you will learn how to fall safely. You will be surprised at your resilience and all that jumping up from the ground is great for your core!

“Safety leads us nicely to referees. Referees can be male or female and are an integral part of the game. Their role involves managing safety, laying the track, giving penalties and scoring, along with helping skaters to learn the rules.

“The Pembroke Community Centre [PCC], next to Admiralty House on North Shore have offered us their fancy new rink designed especially for skating. The rain and humidity can pose problems so if anyone knows of an inexpensive, indoor sports hall where skating is permitted please get in touch. To learn a new sport takes time so we don’t really want to cancel training because of the weather!

“The training costs will be minimal if we train at PCC and more if we hire an indoor venue. Roller derby is always not-for-profit so costs will be kept to a minimum.

“You need a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, quad roller skates and a helmet. According to the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association [WFTDA] referees are permitted to wear inline skates. Players can wear any quad skates but if you are purchasing skates, roller derby skates are ideal. Riedel is a very popular brand but there are many brands to choose from.”

“You can buy each item separately or you can buy a set from the US. Here is the only shop we are familiar with and we have received good service from them. They have suggested a discount for bulk orders, details of this would depend on interest.”

To see an example of a fresh meat package from another store. You could also get skates from Ebay USA by searching ‘roller derby skates’. Comfortable, breathable clothing is ideal. Short shorts are allowed.

The spokesperson continued, “The training will commence the week beginning 7 April so you have plenty of time to get your equipment and swat up on the game! In the meantime there will be opportunities to meet, watch roller derby online and try out your skates!

“The vision will evolve as more people join and it becomes your team but for now the idea is that women learn how to play the sport, enjoy themselves, make friends and get in touch with their inner warrior! An ideal situation would be to have two teams within the league that play each other and, of course, a big goal would be to play another team from further afield!

“The Bermuda Roller Derby Association held its first event, a screening of the documentary “Derby Baby”, at the Chewstick Foundation on Thursday, January 30th. There was a good turnout, totalling about 20 people [including 4 men].

“In addition to the screening, there was an introduction of two of the founding members, Mhairi “Flash Flood” Flood, and Aruna “RuDimental” Dismont. Post screening, there was a question and answer session, where we talked about skating location, equipment, and even the fears of getting hurt [which were quickly quashed!]. We also expressed that having a current skating ability is not necessary! Two [male] members of the Bermuda Hockey Association attended and showed their support as well.

“Flash Flood will be speaking about roller derby at the upcoming Pechakucha event held on Thursday 20 February at Blue Water Anglers Club 6-9pm.

“Between now and April we are looking to hold more events, such as a fundraiser, meet and greet and viewing of full derby games.”

Contact bermudarollerderby@gmail.com for more information and visit their Facebook page.

#RollerDerby

Category: All, Entertainment, Films/Movies, Sports