First Year Things I Wish I Had Known: Demanda Riot

by demanda_riot August 7, 2011 - 11:48pm
  • Skates are in men's sizes.
  • Panty hose are not tights which are not leggings which are not sporty compression pants.
  • Fishnet track burn does look more interesting than just plain track burn, but FUCK IT ALL and wear thicker bottoms.
  • Hematomas are serious. Go to your doctor.
  • Find a good Sports Doctor and Physical Therapy Clinic.
  • Always, always do your PT. It's like extra training. And show your teammates.
  • A personal trainer ≠ athletic trainer.
  • Change socks before practice.
  • Always take the stairs.
  • Squat pee in public restrooms.
  • Invest in a custom mouthguard.
  • Get fitted for a boot. Even if you purchase used. Make sure it's the right size.
  • Always outskate your equipment. It doesn't make you. You use it.
  • Always skate like you mean it.
  • Commit to yourself/ your team/ the process of learning.
  • Watch roller derby.
  • Pick up scrimmages are RAD.
  • TAKE ALL FORMS OF FEEDBACK. Don't take it personally.
Section(s): 
Derby Life
Things I Wish They Had Told Me

Comments

Submitted by holli371 on December 3, 2012 - 10:23pm

If you get the opportunity (privilege) to attend a session run by Demanda Riot DO IT! The most valuable experience in my roller derby obsession was to be at Rollercon Down Under last weekend and each and every coach brought something special to each session but Demanda just nailed the level of engagement, intensity, encouragement and pure inspiration. I have learned a lot of the above list in two years of derby but I take away "Always skate like you mean it" and will be using it to remind me to bring the intensity to every session I do. Thank you RCDU for sharing the derby love in Australia and thank you Demanda Riot for inspiring so many of us.
Holli Hipkiss - Convict City Rollers - Hobart, Australia