Submitted by CaliforniKate, skater with the Jerzey Derby Brigade.

I began my journey with roller derby on February 15, 2012. I had not skated since I was 12 years old but was excited to get started. I remember calling my mother-in-law to let her know how excited I was to join the Jerzey Derby Brigade. The first thing she asked me was why I had not taken up knitting instead? On that day seven months ago I would not have been able to give her the answer that I would giver her today.

Now I would tell her that roller derby is something that you work hard at; an experience that should not be missed. But also that it is sisterhood, a love, something that if you work hard at it the reward in the end will be an experience you will never forget. 

On Sept. 8 I skated in my very first roller derby bout. The feeling of nerves and excitement is nothing that I had ever experienced before. I had a list of things I needed to remember, derby stance, look behind me, stay with my partner, stay calm and don’t get trapped. As soon as that first whistle blew all I could think of at that moment was WOW. How amazing is this experience!? All the sweat, tears, and hard work came down to this moment, a moment I will never forget. That is why I chose to be part of roller derby, to experience the WOW moment.

Come experience the WOW moments with your local roller derby girls the Jerzey Derby Brigade, Saturday, October 20, at 6:30 pm, at Inline Morristown, 38 Dumont Place, Morristown, NJ. Tickets can be purchased in advance at brownpapertickets.com (search Jerzey Derby Brigade) or from your favorite roller girl!

Recruitment is now open. Contact info@jerzeyderby.com for details.