From crossovers to whipping, roller derby in Lethbridge is picking up speed as women across the city are gearing up and putting the sport on the map.
Roller derby was introduced to Lethbridge in 2010 and since then has been growing steadily.
Tracy Reid, President and co-captain of the team, also known as Knotty, has been involved with roller derby since is started in Lethbridge and has definitely seen a growth in the sport.
“Five years ago when this league started, there were maybe six people who were interested. Then there was a boom where we were able to start two teams,” said Reid. “Because Lethbridge is a university and college town, we do see people come and go, but overall the sport itself has become more popular.”
Briana Block, team secretary and player, also known as ROCKIN’ Block, has been on the team for two years.
Not only has she seen a growth in Lethbridge but also in the surrounding area.
“There are teams popping up everywhere, even small communities. It seems almost everywhere has a roller derby team. People may not have heard of them, but they are there,” said Block.
The rules indicated on the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association website state that roller derby consists of blockers and jammers. Blockers form a pack of eight while the two jammers, who are indicated on the track by a star on their helmet, are the players who score the points.
The jammers push and shove there way through the pack and gather points the second time they pass through the blockers.
Danya Schooley, a designated blocker, also known as Doomsday, has been playing on the team for over two years and says the physicality is something she really enjoys.
“I like blocking. I like getting in the way and hitting people. I really enjoy that aspect of the game and it keeps me interested,” said Schooley.
To some players on the team roller derby is much more than a game, it’s an opportunity to meet new people and build strong relationships.
Block feels fortunate to have met such great women.
“It’s not just a team, it’s a family. Everybody is so supportive and so loving. We’re just an amazing group of women and its great to be a part of,” said Block.
According to Reid, another reason it has been become so popular in Lethbridge is that it is good exercise. She says playing roller derby has helped her get in the best shape of her life.
Lethbridge Roller Derby holds practices every Wednesday and Sunday in the pavilions located at Exhibition Park and welcomes newcomers and anyone who is interested in the sport. For more information on Lethbridge Roller Derby you can visit their website at http://www.lethbridgerollerderby.ca.
