Member of the Month – November 2009

The Ruffian

Congratulations to the Ruffian for being November’s Member of the Month!

What her teammates had to say:

As I’ve gotten more involved in committees I am seeing firsthand how much she does to keep this league running. She is obviously very devoted and I appreciate it lots!

Why I Coach

2009 Team Captain - Thunder Lips

I suppose every coach has their reasons for enjoying their job. Depending on the sport and the individual background, any particular coach would likely bring forth reasons for why they love what they do. For me it is no different, but it’s not what you might think. I came to the Dominion Derby Girls with no skating background. I wasn’t a rink rat, never performed on skates, I never so much as had a skating birthday party when I was growing up. In fact, I didn’t even have much of an athletic background at all! I took ballet lessons for years and years and I ran track in school. Aside from my 4×4 relay team, I had minimal experience with team sports. It was a caption in an article in the Virginia Pilot about our league almost 3 years ago that caught my eye. It said “We’ll teach you everything you need to know, all the skills required to play Roller Derby!” and that they did.

So, two years later I am a coach and the reason I love it is because learning to play this sport and acquiring all the skills required to do so is a long and hard process. Ladies from all walks of life walk with all sorts of backgrounds through our door every month with the hopes that they will one day (soon) play this game. Everyone starts off shaky on skates and scared of falling, then they’re scared of learning whips and then of being hit (making contact). But the tenacious ladies that really want to do this keep coming back and I take teaching them very seriously. I love watching the transformation!! Girls start to get steady on their skates and then seconds come bit by bit off a time trial because a girl starts to cross over, a Fresh Meat will get a good push on one of our vets, someone will unexpectedly produce a strong whip or shock me by really laying a good hit on one of us old timers. Little by little, a derby girl starts to shine through.

At the end of the Fresh Meat process, every skater goes through an evaluation and when you pass you get to start scrimmaging. None of us ever stop learning, this is an evolving sport but it’s so GREAT to stand by and watch a new jammer get lead for the first time, or a girl connect with a perfect hit, or recover from a fall lighting quick just when you may have counted her out and know that I had a part it this creation. I consider Derby to be a gift for the select few of us who want it, who need it.  Our coaching staff as a whole is dedicated to helping ladies obtain that for themselves and our end goal is to create a skater who is an asset to their team, add a new friend to the mix and give them something that can never be taken away – for once a derby girl…. always a derby girl.

-Thunder Lips

Derby Tripping: ECE – Pretty Skate Machine

Photo by: Justin Hankins

So it took me three years. And I still didn’t skate, but I finally made it to Philly for ECE. You see, the first year they had it in March – no go for work. Everyone headed north while I sat in front of a computer screen wondering what they were all doing while I was stuck at home. Second go around I was ready and willing! Even if I had to take days without pay I was going to skate in ECE dammit! But alas, this time I laid flat on my stomach, wrapped tight, barely able to breathe due to my broken ribs. Ah, the luck of the draw usually sucks for me. Murphy’s law,  I suppose. Here we are at 2009, and YET AGAIN I sit staring into space wanting to be in the hot stinky van with a bunch of overly caffeinated derby girls. But apparently getting knocked up sort of curtails your ability to skate in bouts.I had been sidelined since mid January, looking forward to the reprieve that October will bring with the birth of a derby spawn and the ability to return to skates. Don’t get me wrong; I have been a coach for a few years now, on and off skates. But it’s just not the same as being in the game.

I was up at 7:30 Friday morning. Coffee, coco krispies. . . It’s 8 now. The girls will be in Norfolk packing the vans. 8:30 .. .  I can almost hear Ruffian yelling “Lets get a move on ladies! We are running behind!” Followed by the clatter and chatter of half awake derby girls, wondering and asking if they were going to stop for coffee, and if so, when. I steer my gaze away from the morning news to look down at my ever rounding belly and ask the little one inside “You do know that you will hear about this EVERY time you want to do something for at least 18 years right?” I nod off with thoughts of what I would do if I was in Philly and I was skating. .

The phone rings -  10:30. It’s Frankendoll. We already knew T Rex wouldn’t be bench coaching due to travel restrictions during late pregnancy, and Princess America so graciously stepped up in addition to her bouts with Carolina to help call our roster. But now, Hofosho has the flu! “We need a bench coach, Skate, do you think you can get to Philly?” That’s all the push I needed. I told Frankendoll I’d call her back, and immediately got on the phone with the derby widow.

I ask.  He knows how badly I want to go, but he’s not real happy with me traveling in my “delicate condition.” Hmm . . .  but this is why I married him: 20 minutes into the conversation he says “Book the hotel.” He was getting off at lunch and we were both headed to Philly! A quick check in with Frankendoll, Ruffian, and Thunderlips and my bag was packed. 3pm: Skate Machine is on the road north.

We arrive around 9 and get checked in. Food! I need food and sleep ..  Meeting with the captains at 7:30 in the morning, bout at 11.

After cursing the alarm, shower and my one cup of coffee that I’m allowed (boo!) I wander down a floor and find the room the captains will be in. Last minute changes and worries cause a rush of excitement and I spend an hour calming down and figuring out what we need and send the captains off to get ready and be with the team. It all works out and after breakfast with Candy Liver, Frankendoll and Big Fun (spending time with those 3 is an entire blog in itself) we make it to the Sportsplex just in time for me to scramble with some VERY last minute changes and everyone hits the track.

I scream for 2 hours. We didn’t win, but the girls fought hard. I was sweating as much as they were and I was on the sidelines. When it’s all over, they all deserve a break and we go on to watch a few bouts and support our lil sisters, the River City Rollergirls, in a challenge bout. I finish my day with Frankendoll, the Hubby and Dairy Queen. Until the next meeting with the captains at 9pm. This one lasted until around 1am and ended up with a completely different approach to our roster.

The Machine in Action

8am Sunday. Up and at ‘em! Bout at 12:30. Morning routine and meet with captains and team. Maybe this time I can get the rush out BEFORE I get to the ‘Plex. For the most part I did, although we almost ran late due to Frankendoll stopping on the way insisting on helping what we thought was a baby beaver cross the road. Much to our surprise it was a muskrat and after screaming MUSKRAT at it really loud from the car it ran off into the woods. Satisfied that a car wouldn’t squish it, we u-turned and headed back toward the Sportsplex. Apparently there are an unlimited number of times for a GPS to scream at you “RECALCULATING!”  But after about 3, Frankendoll threatens to throw it out the window.

The Sunday bout went about the same as Saturday, score wise. Again, not a win for us, but they fought hard and we learned a lot. I still believe we brought back a different group of skaters than we arrived with. And that’s a good thing. We were working with many fresher skaters (some only on their first or second bout) and at least 2 injured veterans. Then Frankendoll took a really hard hit, followed by having her neck rolled over. This ended with a quick trip to the ER and a diagnosis of a mid-grade concussion and whiplash.

After the Sunday bout, the worser half was waiting outside in the car to head home. With work in the morning and both the Hubby and I being exhausted, we needed to get home. I won’t even go into the delirium that ensued right around the Maryland border but I was laughing so hard I was in tears and almost had to pull over. We still have no idea why. I don’t think he even remembers work Monday. Zombie state took over. And my voice just has begun to return.

All in all, despite the stress, it was a wonderful trip. Everyone played there hardest and everyone got home safe. I’m proud of us. And hopefully next year I can go again.

ON SKATES.

Members of the Month – October 2009

Bear Lee Human (left) and Dr. Psycho Cub (right)

What the league had to say about Bear Lee Human and Dr. Psycho Cub: I nominate Chris and Derrick; I can’t just choose one of them because they have both helped us out so much. They were right by our side at regionals coaching us and cheering us on. Since they met us they have been our number one fans, supporters, fellow league members, and friends.

Member of the Month – September 2009

Big Daddy (Photo courtesy of Justin Hankins)

What the Dominion Derby Girls had to say about Big Daddy:

“Not only has he stepped up as a bench coach (and now league coach), but he has dedicated God only knows how many hours to trying to develop this league. He researches everything from drills for practice, to potential sponsors and events, to future venues. I’m pretty sure that man wakes up thinking about derby, goes to bed thinking about derby, and probably even dreams in derby. He pushes us so hard in practice and puts up with a lot of moaning and groaning for one reason and one reason only- he wants us to succeed. The team has grown in leaps and bounds since ECE and much of that can be attributed to Big Daddy’s contributions. We don’t say “thank you” enough at practice… mainly because he makes us sprint until we can barely breathe. So I nominate Big Daddy to say thank you for all his hard work and dedication and perseverance. We are a better, stronger, closer team because of him.”

“Big Daddy has done so much research for us and has put in the time and effort to help us succeed.”

Congratulations Big Daddy on being September’s Member of the Month!!

Member of the Month – August 2009

The Ruffian

What her team mates had to say:

She is such a dedicated skater and a vital member of this league. If you have a question, she can answer it. If you have a problem, she can solve it. If you want to take a scenic tour of Trenton, NJ on your way to Philly for ECE … well she’s your girl. She puts the league first. Her passion for this sport motivates everyone around her.

A lot of people don’t know what it takes to really run the league, it’s something not one of us can do single handedly but some members take one more than their fair share and do it willingly because they love Roller Derby. Ruffian is one of those people. She spearheads booking our schedule every year, she coordinates with other leagues to get them here to play us. She serves on the BOD, as VP for WFTDA and keeps that committee in the loop, she is always active and present and attentive. To keep us afloat it takes all sorts of personalities and worker types. Ruff is a work horse for this league on and off the track. I appreciate what it took to stand this league up, what it takes to grow and what it takes to maintain…she has been an avid part of all of that!

Derby Girl Boot Camp

So you wanna be a derby girl? Well, we’re recruiting!

The Dominion Derby Girls Boot camp will help you learn the basics and be placed in the appropriate group to ensure proper training for your fresh meat period. Come out, skate, and learn roller derby with the best from Hampton Roads!

Please contact our coaches at training@dominionderbygirls.net for more information.

August 2, 2009
9am-1pm (Time subject to change)
Haygood Skating Center
Cost:$25.00 in advance and $30.00 day of Boot Camp. *This fee covers your first months league dues.

Bootcamp:
1st hour
Basic skating
Beginner drills
Derby form
Speed assessment

2nd hour
Review
1 on 1 work or solo practice time

Break – lunch/discussion

3rd hour
Leaning
Weaving
Whips/pushes
Jumping/hopping
Hitting Demo
Time to practice solo or with coach

4th hour
Final assessment
Q&A

You will need skates, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, a mouth guard, and a helmet. Some gear may be available to borrow, but you’ll need to contact training@dominionderbygirls.net for specifics.

Also, join us at Guadalajara Town Center for our recruitment meet & greet fund raiser on Sunday, July 26th from 6-10pm. Skaters, referees, coaches and widows alike will be there to answer your questions, and ten percent of your bill will be donated back to the league. So come on out, say hi, grab a bite to eat (and a drink!) and help raise money for a worthy cause!

We can’t wait to see you there!!!

Derby Tripping: ECE – Pippy Longstalker

After a cancelled flight, sitting standby for the next one and then fitting 6 people into a 5 person rental car, I made it to the East Coast Derby Extravaganza! The excitement was all around me. My teammates, my opponents, my fellow fans–everywhere you looked, people were enjoying being surrounded by roller derby! Watching the Dominion Derby Girls skate against Connecticut was hard. I wanted to be out there skating with them! But, they gave it their all, that’s for sure. My voice was hoarse for the rest of the day after cheering on my team.

After the bout, a few of us went to grab lunch before heading back to watch some more derby action. While deciding on which delicious menu item I would choose, America the Bootyful proposed! We looked into each others’ eyes and knew that it was meant to be! *blech* Just kidding. It just seems like a great pairing. I’m learning the ropes about derby and she’s willing to teach me. And, we’re having TONS of fun together in the meantime!

So, after a restful night, I wake up on Sunday morning and begin to prepare for my very first bout appearance. It’s been four and a half months in the making and I’ve finally made it to my first bout. After donning my uniform and my pig-tail braids, I grabbed my gear and headed off not knowing what was in store for me. Warming up, I felt the nerves begin to grow. The other team, Grand Raggidy, wasn’t intimidating–it was the unnerving doubt in my abilities and the fear of letting me teammates down. But, before I know it, introductions have started and the announcers are calling my name. “Number 36 AA, PIPPPPPYYYY LOOOOOONGSTALKER!” Oh no! What do I do? I quickly raised my arms and blew a kiss to the crowd with the biggest grin on my face. This is it! My first bout! My debut as a Dominion Derby Girl!
And then, the whistles blew and the skating started. The first half went by quickly. Too quick actually. What happened in that first period is all a blur. Half time came and went and now the second period was starting. A sense of determination came over me. I was not going to let my teammates down. I was not going to use my inexperience as an excuse. This was a new period and a chance of redemption.

My name was called in the lineup and out I went. Lining up on the inside behind The Ruffian, I looked around me and realized that the opposing team wasn’t any different from me. They weren’t any better than me. We all had 8 wheels strapped to our feet and I wasn’t going to let a little bit of nerves get in my way. And, then the whistles blew. Off we went. All I could think was, “Stay together. Hold the line. Hit them HARD!”. Then, it happened. Their jammer was coming through the pack! I pushed off and skated straight into the path I knew she would take and WHACK! my shoulder went straight into her chest. Take that! That’s right! You just got knocked down by a newbie!

A wave of confidence and pride came over me. I did it! It doesn’t matter how good another skater is as long as I remember what my coaches have been teaching me and I put it to use. I can succeed at this sport! I can help my team! The rest of the period played out and it was over too soon, but I will never forget that first hit. Now, I am a stronger skater. I’m a stronger teammate. I’m Pippy Longstalker, a Dominion Derby Girl.

Pippy is pictured here on the left.

Member of the Month – July 2009

T. Rex Ya Face

Coach T. Rex & her 2 slices

What her teammates had to say:

As Head of the Merch Committee, T has been a key player with ordering, inventorying, storing, and researching all of the Merch. She’s always ready to fill an order and haul the suitcases wherever they’re needed.
As Director of Training, she is instrumental in the organization of keeping the DDG knowledgeable in the new 4.0 rule set, she’s the attendance nazi and is always ready to inform a skater/ref as to what they’re status is, she is an key player in bouts by making sure that the skaters are where they’re supposed to be on the track, and as a Coach, she’s always willing to demonstrate a play or an idea to benefit both an individual skater or the whole League.
The DDG would be lost without her and thus she should be recognized for all of her hard work.

I think I speak for most of us when I say that T Rex’s involvement in the DDG continues to amaze me! We all consider the DDG an extension of our own family but it’s easy to let life get in the way and when it does, derby takes a back seat. Its so easy to lose motivation when you cannot be on skates for whatever reason! She happens to have THE BEST reason – being pregnant with her first baby!! Through it all – she has never faltered. She has been at every meeting, coached many practices solo and still managed to ‘teach’! She has travelled with the team and she has been an active bench coach – one that we would be lost without. I don’t know where she has found the energy, especially as she gets close to the end! Its nothing but impressive. Now hurry up and have that baby….we’re tired of seeing you on the sidelines and ready to have you back on the track!!

WFTDA T-Shirt Design Contest

Calling all artists and designers!

With the 2009 tournament season fast approaching us, the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) merchandise committee is looking for a new t-shirt design to hit the merch booth!

Details as follows:
- Doesn’t necessarily have to have WFTDA written in the design
- The WFTDA logo will be placed in the upper middle of the back with Est.2004 underneath
- No more than 2 color
- All submissions should be turned in by July 17th.
- WFTDA member leagues will select the winner
- Send all submissions to: tonya.vojtkofsky@yahoo.com
- Format: tif, jpg,

The winner will receive clothing items with the logo on it, credit on the WFTDA website and the undying love of millions of derby girls world wide.

Visit www.wftda.com for more information on the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association!