Who are you when you are not on the rink? And what motivated you to join a roller derby league?
(Is this your banker?)
- Production Studio Coordinator
- Investment Broker
- Medical Office Manager
- University Student Advisor
- Business Administrator
- Kid’s Playroom Director
- Art, Music, Elementary or High School Teacher
- Videographer (allegedly porn, but unsubstantiated)
- ER Nurse
- Lots of students (both undergrad and grad)
Sometimes the skater’s name reflected her occupation. For example, the nurse was Shenita Stretcher … and there was of course Teacher A. Lesson.
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And what brought them in to the sport? These answers varied too, but some common themes emerged --- Social interaction, exercise, non-conformance.
Belle N. Somebashin saw an outlet:
"I originally joined derby because I was looking for some type of female intermural sport to get involved in. I grew up roller skating, have a martial arts background, am now a 'retired' hardcore kid from the 90's, and love tattoos, so derby seemed like the perfect option. Plus I love the duality of my life - SOOOO far removed from the high-net worth individuals I deal with at work all day."
Diamond Lil of the Denver Roller Girls spoke of female energy:
"There aren't many aggressive/extreme sports out there for women, so a lot of women gravitate towards [derby] because it's finally a chance to realize a lot of energy."
Jenna Jamitin of the Ironbound Maidens said:
"I live alone and work in the city, so I was looking for a way to meet new people. I wanted some social interaction."
Well, okay ... but why not a book club?
"Growing up near the ocean, I did in-line skating as a kid, and have surfed all my life. I miss those things. Roller derby seemed like the perfect answer."
The competitive Lady Vengeance identified with the feminist image of a strong woman. In college, the former cheerleader used to talk about forming a stunt squad.
"Practicing at least three times a week keeps me in shape. I've made new friends, and I embrace the competition."
All that skating is certainly good exercise. As Philadelphia’s Erin Go Braless put it:
"This workout's a lot more exciting than the gym!"
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Photo by the talented Kat Deem
4 comments:
...yes, definitely a recurring theme of a flirtation with danger for the sake of some excitement and self assertion that has nothing to do with verbal skills and all that high-falutin' mumbo jumbo.
Awesome.
Say...less than a month until you graduate, mama. You must be getting pretty excited yourself!
Thanks for providing such a rich slice of life on this. Most of us probably never would have known a thing about the sport were it not for you!
I AM excited about graduating, and hope to find a new job too. I look forward to a period in my life without homework ... at least for a while!
Thanks for the comments. (I have posted a comment to your blog under, where else?, Maternalism and the Female Role in Film.)
I got your comment and am humbled and gladdened...and very happy to know that people not so different from myself exist and not too far from home!
Well, your e-portfolio's terrific. Perhaps you can find a company that sees that you've already done your homework and will let you slide on the more, er, repetitive stuff...
I'm totally late too this, but Sheenita Stretcher happened to just come across this post and share it with her teammates (that's me!) -- she's not a nurse, nor involved in the medical profession. :)
However, we do have a doctor on our team -- she skates under the name Persephone.
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