Roller Girl Boot Camp Q&A...
Q - I haven't skated since I was a kid. Should I attend Boot Camp?
A - Yes! Boot Camp is for everyone who suspects they would enjoy being back on roller skates and is curious about roller derby. There's no commitment to join the league. It's just to have fun, get a workout, meet roller girls and make new friends!
Q - Am I too old/fat/skinny/out-of-shape to play roller derby?
A - Roller Girl Boot Camp is the place for you to find out. If you are 18 or older and you don't mind putting on roller skates, falling on your butt/hips/padded knees a few times, getting your heart rate up and sweating for a week, then come out and give it a try. If you have medical concerns or a serious health condition, please let us know by emailing our registered nurse, Felony Melanie, at felonymelanie@rocketmail.com.
Q - Do I have to attend the entire week?
A - No, but it's really important that you do if you need to learn all of the skills to pass tryouts for the league.
Q - Can I bring my spouse/friend who just wants to watch?
A - Please don't. This is OUR camp, targeted for people who are taking a chance and doing something out of their comfort zone. We want Boot Campers to feel comfortable falling on their faces (or butts) without an audience there.
Q - What if my partner/friend is interested in becoming a referee or jeerleader?
A - Great! She/he needs to register for Boot Camp.
Q - Can I bring my kid?
A - Sorry, no.
Q - Do I have to have skates or other gear to attend Boot Camp?
A - No. We'll provide rental skates and protective gear through Boot Camp and beyond for a maximum of 30 days after the Feb. 19 tryouts. But if you have your own, bring it.
Q - Can I use in-line skates?
A - Hell no! Quads only! (Exceptions made for referees who agree to eventually pledge allegiance to quads.)
Q - I want to buy skates and gear now. Where can I get advice?
A - We encourage you to save your money until you've done Boot Camp. But if you insist, we recommend the "Rookie Package" at http://www.sincityskates.com/. Also, we sometimes sell used gear at Boot Camp. If you are going to buy skates, please know that they are in MENS sizes. Many women chose the wrong size. For more discussion on gear, contact us at derbydevils@gmail.com.
Q - Do I have to attend Boot Camp to try out on Feb. 19?
A - No, but chances are good you won't pass tryouts if you don't. Even experienced skaters have a lot to learn about roller derby. We also want to see you demonstrate that you can be part of a team. If you cannot attend Boot Camp but plan to attend the Feb. 19 tryouts, please give us at heads-up by emailing Lizzy Gored'em at lizzy.goredem@gmail.com.
Q - Is there a way I can be involved in the Derby Devils and not skate?
A - Yes. We need volunteers. And, we'll introduce you to the "jeerleading squad" at Boot Camp.
Q - Is health insurance required to attend Boot Camp or to join the league later?
A - No, but you're an idiot if you play derby, or any aggressive sport, without insurance. The SDD will require you to sign a waiver saying you are aware of the risks of roller skating and/or roller derby and that you take full responsibility for your injuries.
Q - I'm an experienced skater who plans to try out on Feb. 19. Should I attend Boot Camp?
A - Yes. We want to see you demonstrate how to be part of a team, especially when it involves skating next to people who aren't as good as you. We ask that you put your heart into Boot Camp, show encouragement and patience and demonstrate you can have fun.
Q - I can't make Boot Camp or the Feb. 19 tryouts. Can I still join?
A - Yes, you can join through the next tryouts date to be announced sometime later in the year. Exceptions are made only for skaters and referees transferring from active membership in another league. (Please contact derbydevils@gmail.com to share your references and WFTDA number.)
Q - When can I get a derby name, uniform, jacket, photo of myself plastered all over town as a real rollergirl?
A - Glad you asked. Now, don't ask again. We practice six to eight hours a week, compete at least once a month, pay $25/month on dues and hundreds on gear and run this league on our own bruised backs. If just posing like a derby girl is what motivates you, go to the mall and knock yourself out. We're here to play an aggressive sport. You can apply for a derby name and receive a uniform, jacket and photo after you and most of your entering class become "eligible to bout," meaning you've completed the skills and tests required to play. This can take three to six months depending on your commitment to practice and participation.
Q- I'd like to be a leader in the league right away. How soon can I take over?
A - You put in your time as a rookie like everybody else. That means demonstrating commitment to practice, paying dues, listening to the more experienced players, watching roller derby and, finally, competing in bouts. This could take months or years. It's up to you and your level of commitment and abilities.
Still not sure if Roller Girl Boot Camp is for you? Check out comments from past Roller Girl Boot Campers:
“WOOHOOO! That was GREAT last night! Can't wait for more pain tonight.”
“I was dreading getting out of bed this morning, wondering how bad my legs would feel, and, honestly, they are not that bad... I can
still sit down to pee! YEAH!”
“It's amazing how quickly everyone has picked up the great tips provided by the vets.”
“I am smiling inside because I am doing something for me and proving all those (who) said I couldn't that I CAN.”
“I can't believe I can do crossovers. I was really worried about that, and now I just want to go out and do them all the time.”
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