Roller Derby elbows its way into hearts of fans
Medicine Hat News
Decades ago, the participants were ‘Skinny’ Minnie Miller and Paul ‘The Bear’ Rupert. They played in front of sell out crowds at New York’s Madison Square Gardens and the Fabulous Forum in Los Angeles. A long time has since passed, but Roller Derby is making a comeback right here in Medicine Hat.
The Gas City Rollers made their debut back on February 20 against the Calgary B52 Bellas. Kim Large, AKA - Jasa Voorhees, took to the game right away.
“It was something I really wanted to do, but was a little too intimidated with the league in Calgary. So, when I found out we were starting a new team here, with all new girls, with little experience, this is what I wanted to do,” said Large.
“I saw a poster and thought it would be fun, so a friend and I joined,“ said Kelsi Makie, AKA - Strawbury Shortskate.
“I didn’t know what to expect at first, it definitely has been a challenge. I find the games and hits you take the hardest,” added Makie.
“We’re building and have a ways to go, but it should be fun and a good experience,” added Large.
Ideally, 16 players make up a team. Large is hoping they can double that, and have two teams in the city.
“It is a challenge for us to get those numbers, but we’re hoping to have two teams so we could play each other. Right now, we have about 30 with a lot of fresh meat (new players) and hope to get them up and running,” said Large, adding there are two challenges of taking up the game: learning the rules and skating.
“Learning the rules and skating,” said Large. “There are some people who come from a hockey background and pick it up right off the bat. Then there are people like me, who haven’t done anything like skating, rollerblading or any sports. It was definitely a Bambi on ice kind of show when I started. Since then, I’ve picked it up and love it,” added Large. “It’s obviously a leaning curve and we’re adults putting wheels on our feet, but most people are able to pick it up and do fine at it.”
Keeping with the tradition of the sport, the competitors take on a nickname and with that, a different personality and the persona of that alias.
“Every skater does choose a name for themselves and kind of build that persona for them and your derby name is kind of your ultra-ego. I am a shy person, but the derby has brought me out of my shell,” said Large.
For more information on the Gas City Rollers, their website is www.gascityrollers.com.
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REPORT ON SOUTHEAST ALBERTA 2010 ■ Celebrating our Community — 69
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