Derby Life

Roller Derby is a new sport. While it has been around for decades in various incarnations, it hasn’t been taken seriously until the most recent version under the guidance of the WFTDA rule set. Since it is so new there is still lots of room for innovation. Players, coaches, and fans will come up with new ideas, plays, and strategies as the game evolves and time goes by, but how do they come up with all those great ideas? Simple, by coming up with lots of bad ideas first.

In 5 days, it will officially be three months since my stupid little incident. I have now spent a longer amount of time being injured than I have spent skating. Wow, an accomplishment. I realized last night, that I kind of don't even remember what skating feels like. It will be funny when I do put my skates back on, and my skill level will be lower than the newbies I'd been occasionally assisting. Oh well, square one was an exhilarating place to be in at one time...I'm sure it remembers me and will treat me well.

by Dawn Frederick

For anyone involved in any aspect of roller derby, we all agree that there is real life (work, career, life goals) – and derby life. When those two worlds intersect and result in greater creative collaboration, words cannot truly describe the overall positive experience.

This is a great primer on what to think about when you're photographing derby.

How to Photograph Roller Derby

Thanks, Scientific American!

By: Rody Blocker

There! To the left! The big purple and green building that is so very difficult to miss! We had driven an hour, gotten lost and cursed out a GPS more times than can be counted, but we made it to Rollerama with time to spare. Inside, there were the Hellions of Troy, preparing for their bout. I suddenly had doubts.

"Oh my god, what if this is super creepy and she hates me after this?"

World Cup weekend is behind us, but the international press remains! Watch this space for more coverage of the event!

New! New York's star Gotham loving sports journalist Thomas Gerbasi gives us this piece featuring Team USA's Fisti Cuffs.

I'm Not Dead Yet is DerbyLife's section of commisery and advice from the ranks of the current derby injured. Got a story to share? [email protected] Reprinted with permission from the autor's blog, Kate On Skates

Derby season is just about over for most people, and we're all pretty broke. Yet, we've still got the holiday shopping to do. Or maybe worn out gear to replace. Whether you're shopping for yourself, your derby wife, or a league holiday party exchange gift, we've done something to help you stretch your few remaining dollars.

Mind Games And Other Blockers Part One

Well to put it simply this blocker is Chronic Atrophy of the Vastus Medialis Obliquus Muscle.

Google it if you want to.

Say it fast five times in a row if you can.

After a long season of roller derby, we figure your feet may need some attention. Here's a repeat from Issue 2 of fiveonfive, in 2008, written by Ida Slapter of Rat City Roller Girls. Issue 13 is on sale now!