A Journey of Strength and Unity Through Roller Derby

In 2010, I laced up my skates and stepped onto the track, a novice in the world of Roller Derby. In my mid-20s, this sport, with its fierce pace and relentless energy, felt uncharted. I had never considered myself athletic, yet here I was, excelling at a speed that astonished me. Roller Derby became my sanctuary, a place where I discovered a latent strength I never knew I possessed. Each practice revealed new skills, and each bout showcased the power I found within myself.

The camaraderie I found was unlike any other. Among these formidable women, I discovered a sisterhood, a bond that transcended the usual animosities that often plague large groups. Together, we redefined femininity. It wasn’t just about grace and beauty; it was about power, resilience, and the unyielding support we offered each other. In the heat of competition, we forged a collective identity that celebrated strength and sisterhood, embodying a new kind of femininity. We formed a tribe, fierce and unwavering, and in our unity, we found a profound sense of belonging.

As the years rolled on, the world around us evolved. One of the teams I play on has now made history by becoming the first in Wyoming to be completely gender inclusive. This shift marks a monumental step, a testament to the progress we’ve made as a community. Yet, it brings a bittersweet note, as our team, once a bastion of female empowerment, now embraces a gender-neutral identity. The dynamic has changed, and with it, our understanding of strength and unity has grown.

This change, while profound, prompts me to reflect on my journey. The femininity I found and celebrated within the confines of Roller Derby has transformed. Today, I celebrate unity. Our team stands as a beacon of inclusivity, welcoming all who share our passion for the sport, regardless of gender. This evolution mirrors my own maturation, from a young woman seeking her place in the world to an advocate for a more inclusive and unified community. The track that once symbolized a personal journey of empowerment now represents a collective quest for equality and acceptance.

In the past, I reveled in the empowerment that came from discovering my own strength and the strength of the women around me. We celebrated our femininity through the bruises and the victories, through every hard-fought game. The friendships we forged ran deep, unbreakable, grounded in mutual respect and shared experiences. Now, as our team embraces a broader spectrum of identities, we learn new lessons in compassion, understanding, and the true meaning of unity.

The past holds a cherished place in my heart, a time of discovery and empowerment. The future, though, is where my hopes now lie. I eagerly embrace the new dynamics of our team, find strength in our diversity, and push the boundaries of what Roller Derby can be. This journey, rooted in the past and reaching for the future, testifies to the power of unity and the enduring spirit of Roller Derby. The track is our proving ground, where we test our limits and expand our horizons.

Through it all, the track remains our canvas, where we paint our stories of strength, resilience, and unity. As we skate into the future, we carry the lessons of the past, ready to embrace whatever comes next with the same fierce determination that brought us here. Roller Derby is more than a sport; it is a journey of self-discovery, a celebration of strength, and a testament to the power of unity. Here’s to the future, to unity, and to the unbreakable bonds we continue to forge on this journey.

xoxo
-S

I’m thrilled to announce the launch of a new Friday series called “Do It Derby.” This series will dive deep into the exhilarating world of Roller Derby, offering insights, tips, and stories that celebrate the sport’s unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a curious newcomer, “Do It Derby” will inspire you to embrace the thrill, challenges, and triumphs of this incredible sport. Join me as we explore the tracks, the techniques, and the community that make Roller Derby a powerful and transformative experience. Let’s lace up and do it Derby style!