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2009/04/01
Home Team Game . . here we go
 The Lost Girls verses the Beach Flat Betties game is this weekend at the Santa Cruz Civic (buy tickets now!) - Last year when we played the home teams it was one of the funnest games of the season for me and I did not even get to play as a Lost Girl. At the last minute I was drafted onto the Betties and proudly wore black and pink for the night. For some reason, until today, I have been dreading the upcoming game - I am mentally having a hard time coming to terms with the fact that I have to skate against some of my teammates from the All-Star team. I'm not afraid of them - it just feels unnatural to play against them. Maybe saying "dreading" is too a strong a word. Bouts can get kinda intense. I'm usually pretty good about keeping my competitive drive on the track and keeping my emotions out of it - usually. It just kinda sucks to go toe-stop to toe-stop with two of my best friends - Roxy and Storm. Rest assured I will skate my ass off and land every hit like it's my last - but I may feel a twinge of guilt (I was raised Jewish so most of my emotions revolve around guilt) as I skate off. It occurred to me this morning that I get to skate as a Vampire on Saturday (the Lost Girls . . . get it?) and it was this shallow thought that finally got me excited about the game. Any excuse to dress up like the undead and I'm there! I know I'm a weirdo . . . but aren't most derby girls? It should be a fun game for us and the crowd - I'm looking forward to seeing some of the up-and-coming skaters take the track at the civic for the first time. It's hard to believe that it was only a year ago I played my first game at the civic - it's been a crazy and beautiful ride that I hope extends for another five years. Hugs & Bruises, Raven Labels: bouts, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2009/03/21
 Oh my gosh what a whirlwind of a week! So long story short WE WON! The Santa Cruz Rollergirls All-Star team beat the LA Derby Dolls Sirens 128-122. By score alone you can tell that it was a great game. The All-Stars came out strong and carried a steady lead into the second half. From a player prospective this was the best game we have ever played as a team. It was fun, clean and challenging - all of my favorite qualities in a game. The LA Girls were amazing athletes and fun girls to hang with at the after party. OH YES that was one crazy after party! Those details stay off line ;) One the best things to happen during the game was seeing our plays and strategies come alive. We have really been working hard as a team to understand the game of derby and play smarter. One thing I have definitely realized was that we are all great individual skaters, but more importantly WE are an amazing team. A special thanks to the city of Santa Cruz, all of our fans, sponsors and die-hard supporters! Without you none of this would be possible. Hugs and bruises, Raven  Looks can be deceiving - I definitely need some work on my jamming but a good shot none-the-less.
Goofing around with the LA Derby Dolls after the Bout.
Labels: bouts, LA Derby Dolls, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2009/03/10
Am I Nervous?
So our bout against LADD is on Saturday. I've been having my typical anxiety dreams about parasites and vermin. The weird thing is that I usually only get those before or during a stressful work-orientated thing. I have some butterflies about this game - I'm not sure if it's just because it's the first game of the season or if the LADD name is swishing around in my head - They are kinda a big deal. SCRG All-Stars are been spending time really picking the game of derby apart. I feel more confident in our knowledge of strategic game play this season - We're playing smarter, not just hitting harder this year. We also have the benefit of strong team unity and instinct - We have been playing together for a year now and know each others every move on the track. I feel like my physical game is strong right now but my mind is just starting to grasp I have a game in four days - Last year I spent a lot of time visualizing (a LOT of time). This week has already been nuts with pre-bout production - I gotta take some time out and start getting myself into rock star mode. Repeat after me: I am a machine. I am a super hero. I rock and they know it. I just need to say that about 800 more times before Saturday. The economy also has me a little worried - I'm hoping the SC local community still has the funds to come out and support us. Unemployment is up to 12% in SC County - YIKES. That's all I got for now . . . xoxo Raven  Labels: bouts, LA Derby Dolls, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2009/02/27
 Oh Cross training . . . I can gladly say that making the decision to start incorporating CrossFit into my cross training has got to be one of my smartest moves yet. Things CrossFit has made realize: *I have next to no upper body strength - this is one of the pivotal reasons I joined. I have the body frame to build muscle, I would even say I look strong . . . but the truth is I can barely do a pull-up on my own and at this point can only manage a girl-pushup. So much of playing derby goes back to strength. Having a strong core, arms and legs is super necessary. I see players out there who are in phenomenal shape and it shows in their game play. *With enough motivation I can wake up at 5:30 AM and drag myself to the gym. The last couple weeks on Friday mornings I have managed to wake up obscenely early and go work out. How am I doing this?? Good question. I hate waking up early, but something about accomplishing a kick-ass workout before I go to work at 8:30 AM leaves me holding my head high for the rest of the day. *I am an athlete - before roller derby I didn't really have any team or competitive sports experience. I took to derby quickly and chucked it up to love of the game and decent skating abilities that carried over from childhood. CrossFit spends a lot of time going over Olympic style weight lifting mixed with rowing and other elements. This is a totally new thing for me. I have NEVER in my life lifted weights, let alone spent time analyzing the perfect body position of a dead lift, thruster, clean, etc. I'm not only learning how to do these things, but I'm also building strength and spending time with people who really enjoy the high caliber of training and intense work out. *I can pick myself up - No really, this morning I reached a minor milestone by dead lifting my own body weight and then going ten pounds heaver. *I want it - Going to a CrossFit class as a newbie is a little intimidating. Honestly if I had not just gone through the newbie process in derby I probably would have not even had the balls to show up. I kinda suck - most people are lifting crazy amounts of weight and (as you can see in the picture above) I'm not really able to lift that much . . . YET. I'm on my way. So with that being said, I highly encourage anyone to take the extra time and cross train. Even if it's only once a week it will totally be worth it. Everything you attempt off the track will improve your skills on it. Hugs n' Bruises xoxo Raven Von KaosLabels: Santa Cruz Rollergirls, training
2009/02/20
 I'm not talking about on your skates - although balance is sorta vital for derby - I'm talking about finding that balance between derby and life. When I first joined SCRG I was in my last semester at San Jose State. It almost seemed too easy being a working student and going through the freshmeat ranks. Granted my GPA that semester was not amongst the highest in my college career. I shortly graduated from freshmeat to player and from working student to fully employed graduate. I'm the kind of person who does not just do something a little (especially if I like it). I don't just stick my toe in to test the water, I cannonball into the deep end and make a splash. I currently find myself wearing many different hats within the league these days. I'm enthusiastic and honestly there is nothing I love more in this life then playing roller derby (maybe not mention that to my boyfriend). I'm a problem solver and a natural leader, so I'm not surprised to find myself with as much responsibility within SCRG as I currently do, but when do you know if you have taken on too much? How much is too much derby? I think the first year is pretty entrancing. You stop calling your outside friends, go to every derby event possible and spend countless hours at work and home on the internet reading, blogging and chatting about derby. Towards the end of last season I started to feel really burnt out. I was literally ODing on roller derby. Between playing derby, day-to-day league operations, derby events and socializing with only derby peops - I was chocking on it. I loved it, but it was kinda getting ridiculous. One of my New Years resolutions this year was to spend more time with non-derby friends, not feel like I have to go to every bout in a 200 mile radius and occasionally take a personal day-off from derby. I also vowed to do the things within the league that make me happy and try not to take on tasks because I feel like I have to or no one else will do them - Hi, my name is Raven and I'm a confessed control-freak. It's actually been working out. I do feel like I have a second full time job some days, but I LOVE that job. I feel like I'm contributing and still having some small semblance of an outside social life.  I guess only time will tell if I got it down pat. The thing is that life is not a constant, it's continually changing and so is derby. I suppose all you can really do is go with it and learn from past experiences. Here's to a busy and balanced 2009.
XOXO Raven Labels: life, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2009/02/06
 As of the second week of January, SCRG is officially back in season. It's odd how much more normal it all feels to me this year. Last year practicing 3 nights a week seemed really grueling. Now I enjoy getting off work and going to practice. Last year I did next to no cross training - this year I go to the gym on days I don't skate and only give myself one day off in the week. I cross train like a mo-fo. I do 45 minute interval runs on the treadmill and circuit train. I have a jump rope in my garage that taunts me into jumping every time I go down there. Last year I would drink after practice, between games, pretty much whenever I could. This year I am turning a new leaf - I have not drank in 27 days. I plan on not drinking between games and probably won't even then - The best part of not drinking is you know you can always drive, you don't feel like ass then next day and I never have remorse of naughty drunken behavior from the night before. I'm ready. I have never considered my self an athlete until now. My skill and endurance have improved - my awareness and knowledge of the game are in tune . . . I'm ready to kick ass. Five weeks until our season opener against the LA Derby Dolls.All the ingredients are there - I'm ready for showtime. xoxo RavenLabels: LA Derby Dolls, Santa Cruz Rollergirls, training
2008/10/31
 When Rowdy Roughrider joined our league late last year I knew she was one to watch out for. She is the epitome of a pack-blocker. Great form, a solid hit and the ability to take a hit like it's water rolling off her back. A passionate athlete, Rowdy always brings her game, she takes the game seriously and can be seriously hard on herself if a jam doesn't go as planned. She has proven herself as a force on the track and it's with great honor that I present her as the SC rollergirl of the week.
Derby Name: Rowdy Roughrider Number: 00 Team(s): Beach Flat Betties, New All star Position(s) : Blocker Hometown: SC How did you learn about roller derby and how did you get started?I had a derby intervention. I walked into my house to find Yo on my couch with a try out application in hand. She knew I would love derby and she was RIGHT.Why do you play roller derby? Derby is my outlet. A way for me to be a part of something that is bigger than me. Derby is mine and mine alone.What are your favorite two things about playing roller derby? Being able to be Rowdy and express myself ( the crazy hit a bitch side of me). Having a group of women (sisters) as a support group. Experiencing life through the eyes of women of all walks of life. It is amazing.How did you get your derby name? I played softball for 12 years and my nickname was Rowdy Routley. I knew I wanted to incorporate Rowdy into derby someway. I figured Roughrider said it all and duhh Derby is Rowdy.What roller derby skates and gear do you use? What skates make you drool? I have Vandals with Omega wheels ( yummy) I really want to get PowerDyne ReactorAluminum Plates. What makes makes me drool....................... 2008 Riedell Black Widow Derby Skates What else, besides play, do you do for your league? I am a member of the fabulous Merchandise committee.
What was your worst injury from roller derby so far?
I had a slight tear and bruising of my left ACL. Not to mention all my lovely bruises. :)How hard is it for you to balance your derby and real life responsibilities?
Well I am a mother of three. It is tough balancing family life and derby. What does not kill me for dam sure makes me stronger. My Girls love to come out and watch mommy. Plus I am raising three future derby girls.Where do you see the sport of roller derby in 5 years?I see X Games, I see myself coaching my girls and watching them kick ass all around the track :PWhat is your theme song? Journey "Don't stop believing" What's your dream roller derby vacation/travel/trip? ummm Northwestern Knockdown Nationals baby!!! I will be thereWhat has been your best roller derby moment this season/ever? Making the All Star team my first year. Pulling off a solid hit on the opposing jammer causing her to go down in the last game of the season.
Thanks Rowdy!
 Labels: roller derby, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/10/22
2008/10/21
 This week I am very proud to present Heather Headlockleer as the SC rollergirl of the week. Heather is not only my derby wife but one of my best friends. She was one of the first girls I met and skated with when I was waiting to tryout for SCRG two summers ago. It was sorta destiny from the start. My Dad came with me to open skate and took one look at Heather ripping it up on the floor and said, "make friends with her, she'll show you what you need to learn. She's got it." and he could not have been more right.
Not only did Heather show me fundamentals like falls and slides, she was a huge support system for me in the early days (and still now). I have had the opportunity to watch her blossom into one of our star jammers and I continue to stand in awe of her skating abilities and phenomenal speed. Number: 9
Team(s): Lost Girls, All-Stars
Position(s) : Jammer, Blocker
Hometown: Santa Cruz - born and raised.
How did you learn about roller derby and how did you get started? I can't remember how I actually first learned about Roller Derby.... I remember always "knowing" about the old-school type since I was a young girl. I got started like a lot of us in Santa Cruz - I saw a flier, heard about a team forming through friends, went to check it out and fell in love! Love at first sight!
Why do you play roller derby? Roller Derby has changed my life... I play for my team-mates, I play for the exercise, I play for the rush I get when I step onto the track, I play for the love of the sport in general, I play for selfish reasons like hearing the crowd cheer your name or making your family proud, and I play for selfless reasons like being a healthy role model for girls and giving back to the community. The intensity of the sport and the reasons why I play are to hard to encompass in a single paragraph.
What are your favorite two things about playing roller derby? The gals I play with- The gals I play against.
How did you get your derby name? I made a list of names, brainstormed, and posted some on the msg. boards for others to choose which one fit me best- I think Robin actually ended up suggesting it. I was looking for a name that fit the "you don't have to be ugly to be tough" motto. ;)ha ha!
What roller derby skates and gear do you use? What skates make you drool? I use Wicked skates and Omega wheels, bullet pads, SC helmet... but I have to admit I am drooling over Lulu's custom skates!! She turned it up a notch with those.
What else, besides play, do you do for your league?
I am a Derby ambassador (DAM) and work on the PR committee.
What was your worst injury from roller derby so far? hmmmm- My first broken nose and the pain of a severely fucked up tailbone are a tie.
How hard is it for you to balance your derby and real life responsibilities?
Freaking impossible- but somehow I do it.
Where do you see the sport of roller derby in 5 years? Hopefully at the X games, on ESPN, more television broadcast with a more legitimized public opinion of the sport.
What is your theme song?
tbd. :(
What's your dream roller derby vacation/travel/trip? Travel across the united states with a couple SCRGs- visit every team- practice with them- drink their beer.
What has been your best roller derby moment this season/ever? The last period of the Inland Empire bout. Scoring enough points to tie the game and then enough points to win the game. AND how could I forget the dog pile that came after- I almost suffocated, but it was beautiful. One big SCRG embrace with my little legs sticking out from the very bottom:)
 This is our wedding picture from RollerCon last summer...  Thanks Heather!Labels: roller derby, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/10/12
2008/10/05
 Charlie Red Stick is this week's featured SC Rollergirl. Charlie is a spectacular athlete and one hell of a skater. She's knows how to really give a whip and brings her fierce Indian spirit with her out on the track. Charlie does a spectacular job juggeling being a mom and taking care of her family with being a fulltime derby girl.
Derby Name: Charlie Red Stick Number: 77 Team(s): All Star team / Capt. Beach Flat Betties Position(s) : Blocker/Pivot Hometown: Houston, Texas How did you learn about roller derby and how did you get started? I watched it on TV in the 70's.Why do you play roller derby? It sounds basic, but I play because I have skated my whole life, and I love the company. It's a good sport for an old girl.What are your favorite two things about playing roller derby? Playing a good game, getting a good move or hit in.How did you get your derby name? I named myself, after my ancestors the Red Stick, from what I gather they were the Anarchists of the Indian tribes in the deep south, rejecting all things white. Burning shit up and not assimilating. They were pretty hardcore.What roller derby skates and gear do you use? I have Riedell Hellcats and Cannibal wheels. I wear Bell helmet with the awesome Jim Phillips graphic, and Bullet pads from NHS. What skates make you drool? Mine are pretty cool, I'd like some better plates though.What else, besides play, do you do for your league? I am Co-Point on the Coaching and Recruiting committee, I am the Captain of my Betties team, I do assessments for the league, oh and I smudge the team (with sage) before games.What was your worst injury from roller derby so far? Well, I have had a couple concussions, I had my nose broken nose during an all star game, but by far it has been my torn rotator cuff. I fell the wrong way on it at practice one night and tore it all the way through, it has ended my season. I just had surgery to repair reattach it and I am in painful rehab physical therapy hell right now.How hard is it for you to balance your derby and real life responsibilities? I have a husband and 2 older kids, 12 & 15. I have had to miss Open House at school a couple of times and go to practice during turbulent times here at home, but they are very supportive.Where do you see the sport of roller derby in 5 years? X Games for sure.What is your theme song? Smash It UP the Damned.What's your dream roller derby vacation/travel/trip? I'd like to go see my friends in TX play. Rollercon would be nice.What has been your best roller derby moment this season/ever? The first game, the rush of the fans and thinking hey, I can do this.
Thanks Charlie!
 Labels: Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/09/30
 Sunday afternoon I was searching for a DVD to watch/ have on in the background while I cleaned out my closet. My hands instantly went to the top left corner of my DVD library, landing directly on Rollergirls. I thought to myself, do I dare? I have seen every episode at least four times and it's seems a little beyond being a guilty pleasure at this point. I negotiated with myself and settled on watching the forth disk, which only contains two episodes. As the theme song started playing and the familiar faces of the TXRD girls rolled across my screen, I started to reflect on what an amazing and unbelievable year and a half it has been. I, like so many girls who now play this sport, had never really been exposed to derby before that show. From the first episode I was hooked. It was like a giant light went on inside me and I knew I wanted to, and had to do that. I started researching close-by leagues, but nothing was close enough to consider participating in. After a little more then a year a league was founded in SC and I never hesitated or looked back. I knew that derby was went for me and I was destined to be a Santa Cruz Rollergirl. In the last year I felt like a force woke-up inside me. I never considered myself an athlete before, and certainly not a competitor. But now I proudly wear both those tags clearly displaied on my metaphorical shirt. The closeness I have felt with my team and the time spent on and off the track has been nothing short of amazing. I really felt like the universe came full circle for me when I was at RollerCon last August. I ended up getting separated from my girls and some how ended up at the Vagine Regime suite party. I went out on the balcony to try and bum a cigarette from someone (nasty habit I know) and who would you guess was out there chatting? Two of my favorite TXRD girls, Venis Envy and Smarty Pants. I'm pretty sure most peops who stay up on their derby news know Venis is currently skating for ACDG. Regardless, there they were, and there I was. Smarty introduced herself to me and asked what league I played for. I played it cool, which if you knew me, you would know I never play it cool, I am incapable of playing it cool, I don't even know how to play it cool. But I did, and there I was having casual conversation with two of the very girls that inspired me to play this sport. Sitting down and watching Rollergirls last weekend took on a whole new nostalgic meaning for me. I have that now. Roller derby used to be something I wanted to do and now it's something I am. After I was done watching the couple episodes I had allotted myself I returned the DVD set to the shelf. I have a feeling it may be the last time I watch them . . . at least for a while. My Rollergirl story is happening now and it's shaping up to be a great one. Hugs & Bruises, Raven  Labels: roller derby, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/09/26
 This week's Rollergirl is a special one. She is one of the much loved and hard working Ghost Riders in our league. SCRG is unique in the fact that we welcome any person that want's to be part of our organization. The Ghost Riders are valued members of our league that don't skate. They are the nuts and bolts of our skater community that in my opinion, cannot get enough praise. Secret is our amazing Bout Coordnator who runs around behind the scences making sure everything is in order. She accomplishes all of this while adorned in a fabulous custome and a huge smile.
Derby Name: SecretGhostie/ Original Gangster (Other than Calamity I think I am the last non-skating OG) Hometown: Moses Lake, WA How did you learn about roller derby and how did you get started? I use to watch banked tracked derby as kid and got voted most likely to be a Roller Derby Queen in high school. I guess I was a little hostile . . . just a little. Most recently my friend Annie Agony from BADG, I went to a couple of her games 2006/07 and fell in love!!!Why do you play roller derby? I currently don't play derby I have the delightful honor of being the first skater to leave practice in an ambulance. Broke my leg in two places July 13, 2007, this was my first and only time breaking any bones. I have not gone back to skating on a regular basis.What are your favorite two things about roller derby? 1st: The amazing women I have met as a direct result of derby.
2nd: Derby has been an incredible catalyst for personal growth in a lot different areas in my life. I have also learned a lot about commitment. How did you get your derby name? The first name I picked was "Luci Furr" but there was already someone with that name and there can only be one. I came up with Secret because well, I like the word play that comes with the question "So what is your derby name?" When I answer "Secret" I then get asked why I can't tell them my derby name. Silly I know, but I like it.What roller derby skates and gear do you use? What skates make you drool? I don't use it much, but it's the original stuff I purchased back in the beginning. R3's. I did upgrade the wheels a while back and wow, what a difference. I don't drool while I am awake.What else, besides play, do you do for your league?I am part of the lonely "Business Committee" PR/Marketing and the big time consumer thing I do for SCRG is Official Bout Coordinator. What was your worst injury from roller derby so far? I broke my Tibia and Fibula last year in July, but before that there was a fall I took trying to learn how to do cross overs and I banged up my fingers on one hand that touched the wheels when I landed and I gave myself the most painful wedgie that I have ever. Seriously, it was very painful yet funny, I had to crawl to the edge of the rink, pull my underwear out of my ass before I could get up. Ouch! It hurts just thinking about it.How hard is it for you to balance your derby and real life responsibilities? It's not too hard. I don’t have a husband/boyfriend or kids so I am not stretched as thin as some of the other girls on this league. Where do you see the sport of roller derby in 5 years? The X games for sure! The Olympics maybe?
What is your theme song? I don't have just one.
What's your dream roller derby vacation/travel/trip? I am not a good skater. In fact I could not skate at all when I joined the league so it would have to be a skate clinic for dummies, somewhere beautiful but not too hot. What has been your best roller derby moment this season/ever? Our first home game. When we won the game, and the audience bum rushed the players on the track. That first bout brought home how amazing to be a part of SCRG it is.Thanks Secret!   Labels: Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/09/21
2008/09/19
 I'm proud to say that Pigeon was one of my recruits. She came into the bar I used to work out this time last year. I took one look at her and knew she was a rollergirl. The girl always has a good attitude and a big smile, plus no one else I know can rock a fanny-pack like that chick. She likes to have fun and I always have fun when I'm around her.
Derby Name: Pigeon Number: 1 Team: The Lost Girls Position(s) : Jammer, Blocker Hometown: Los Angeles, CA How did you learn about roller derby and how did you get started? Raven found me in a bar and insisted I try out the next morning.Why do you play roller derby?
I'm an athlete by nature and love the thrill and adrenaline involved. Plus I love the girls in my league :)What are your favorite two things about playing roller derby?I love flying around the track (speed turns me on) and I also love our awesome outfits! I'm into playing dress up. How did you get your derby name?Pigeons are my favorite bird. They are often under-appreciated, but any true bird lover would know how majestic and radical they are.What roller derby skates and gear do you use? What skates make you drool?I have Ridell widows, they changed my extreme sporting life! I use them for roller derby, at the skate parks, and as transportation to school and work. i use triple 8 gear, they know how to protects my precious extremities.What else, besides play, do you do for your league?I am part of the Community First Committee where we involve the league with local charities or community events. I also host outdoor practices and actively recruit potential roller derby girls all around town.What was your worst injury from roller derby so far? At the May 10th bout where the home teams played each other, I partially tore my MCL in my knee. I'm all better now :)How hard is it for you to balance your derby and real life responsibilities?It is very easy for me only because I truly balance it. I do not let my life become engulfed in derby, even though it is a big part of me and something that I do everyday.Where do you see the sport of roller derby in 5 years?
I see it being a very common sport and being in more cities and towns. I also see a men's league forming in the future, 1970s style.What is your theme song?One Life One Chance (gotta do it right) -by H2O What’s your dream roller derby vacation/travel/trip?It already happened. The annual Roller Derby Convention. ROLLERCON IN VEGAS with a bunch of awesome derby girls from all around the world! I CANT WAIT til next year!What has been your best roller derby moment this season/ever? The home team bout, that was an AMAZING night! Beach Flat Betties vs. Fistful of Dollies, even though i played for the Betties and we lost, it is definitely one of the best nights of my life. aww! :)
Thanks Pigeon!
 Labels: Santa Cruz Rollergirls
Derby News from all over
Well, I hope Raven's nerves calm and her arm is healing up for tomorrow's game for the Santa Cruz Rollergirls last game of the season vs the Bay Area Derby Girls. The Big news over at the Derby News Network and in WFTDA realm, of course, is the Fall Brawl tomorrow down in Ft Wayne. Hammer City is on the Non-WFTDA line-up. I hope to get word on how they do after. In other derby news, The Sault rollergirls in Northern Ontario are looking for new practice space - icing down all the arenas for hockey is a Canadian rite of passage as the cold bite of fall hits the wind, but for derby leagues all over Canada and the northern US, it means a hunt for an indoor place to practice in the winter. How can you come out swinging in the spring for your season, if you can't skate for 7 months of the year? Good luck to them, and if you're in that area and know of a place, Please contact Elora Nelson at (705) 253-2044 or email purple__mascara@hotmail.com check the website: http://www.saultrollergirls.com/Next week, MTLRD New Skidz on the Block will be taking on the Brooklyn Bombshells down in Gotham City. If you're on Facebook, Here is the event page. If not, brownpapertickets has tickets, or check out the Gotham Girls site. I haven't heard from Georgia W Tush since she went out on tour with the band, but I hope she's playing and let's us know how that one goes. Way out in October, watch for a Skate of the Dead, hosted by the Forest City Roller Girls in London, ON. The facebook event says it's October 18. The Forest City Roller Girls website is under construction, so I'm looking out for this league, as they have been playing hard for their first season in 2008. Next year should rock in Ontario and Canada with all the leagues coming up. In Nia Capps news, I'm in the gym 5 days, count that again, 5 days per week for a 45 minute workout every lunch hour, and I'm skating on the weekends (or if rainy, hiking). I am on an 8 month journey to hit the GTA Rollergirls in April when I get ready to slide a little back east into Mississauga and Toronto area, ready to kick ass. Hopefully, I'll still get to a couple of practices with HCRG in the interim, or with GTA. Slapallonia may hook me up. Everything is going great. Ok ok, so I had a bad reaction to some Novocaine after a dentist visit yesterday and today I am resting because my face is numb and tingly and I'm nauseated. But shut up, I am doing AWESOME! In Derby Luv news, I have a new short sleeved Derby Luv T-shirt, along with a long-sleeved Derby Luv T-Shirt on their way to keep me Derby Luv style for my around towns, and a big shout out and thanks to everyone that has decided to wear their Derby Luv this year! On my project list I have a product review for some derby-inspired toys, and I'm waiting to see if I can get an interview with the derby girl that won $35k on a game show. Do you know what I am talking about? Hmmm, a derby trivia quiz for your weekend! Oh yeah, and a fellow Southern Belle, an Atlanta Rollergirl was chosen as a skater for "Whip It!" - a body double stunt woman skater I should say, as a body double for Eve. That is awesome! I wonder who I could body double for... hmmmm Wynona Judd? Screw that, by April it'll be for Xena. ;) Happy Friday, Derby Luvvers. Saturday always bring Roller Derby! Labels: bouts, calendar, Gotham Girls, GTA Rollergirls, Hammer City, MTLRD, roller derby, Santa Cruz Rollergirls, WFTDA, whip it, wrapup
2008/09/18
 I'm not sure if jitters is the right word to use. I have never been a prisoner of nervousness days before a game. I only really got nervous my very first game, and it was not until the whistle blew. I'll never forget the feeling of uncontrollable shaking from every bone in my body. It was like an adrenaline overdose. I have such mixed feelings about the game coming up on Saturday. My immediate reaction is to cry because it's the last one, and then I feel a sense of relief because it is the last game in what has been a long season, and I know this girl could use some time off. My brain's wheels have been churning the last few days with of all the things that I want to concentrate on during the game. It sorta becomes a looping mantra in my head that starts off quite on the Monday before a game and gradually becomes louder and louder, that by Saturday it gyrates through my blood and forces me into action. I am so excited to be playing the Bay Area Derby Girls Plan B team. I just feel that my concentration is all over the map right now. I'm more concentrated in the politics of derby then actually playing derby. Smacking-sense into myself as I type. Que the Rocky theme! Here I come Santa Cruz! Must visualize: I am a force. I am a super hero. I am a derby girl. Jitters, you can go to hell. Raven is ready to ROCK. See you Saturday. Hugs & Bruises, Raven Labels: Bay Area Derby Girls, bouts, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/09/12
 Brawley has been a huge inspiration to me this season. She came back after a pretty serious PCL injury, and never looked back. She is the epitome of a true athlete, complete with amazing skills, spirit and teamwork. I have seen Brawley play every position on the track like a pro and even bust out some amazing jumps to hurdel over fallen skaters.
Derby Name: Brawley PartonNumber: 9-5 Team(s): Santa Cruz AllStars and Co-Captain of the Fistfull of Dollies Position(s) : Blocker and maybe a jam or two here and there Hometown: Santa Cruz How did you learn about roller derby and how did you get started?I was watching some really bad reality TV hoping that it would come to my little 'ole town and BAM!!Why do you play roller derby?
The local knitting circle wouldn't let me in.What are your favorite two things about playing roller derby?Being a hero to little kids and the fact that I can have a husband and two derby wives(LuLu Lockjaw & Eden Yourheartout) and no one bats and eye. How did you get your derby name?My friend Betty Berserker from the pikes Peak Derby Dames.What roller derby skates and gear do you use?The same crappy skates I started with and some sweet kickdowns that good 'ole Roxy got us.What skates make you drool?
ewwww custom made cowboy boot quads. What else, besides play, do you do for your league?Co-Captain of Fistfull of Dollies, co-point of Merch committee, coaching and recruitung committee, hair guru and comic relief. What was your worst injury from roller derby so far?eewwww torn PCL in Reno, now i get to wear an amazing bionic knee brace. How hard is it for you to balance your derby and real life responsibilities? My non-derby friends hate me, my family only see's me at bouts and in the press, my husband only sees me at counseling and i think i'm getting fired, i'd say pretty well balanced!Where do you see the sport of roller derby in 5 years?At the X-Games baby!!What is your theme song?
9-5What’s your dream roller derby vacation/travel/trip? Let's see.....how about a "Scrimmage in the South" we would start at Graceland, skate in Elvis' driveway, head over to Hurriacne Mills and rally at LoretHurricaneranch and then playoffs at DLynn'sood!What has been your best roller derby moment this season/ever?
Every time I saddle up on that start line with all my rollersisters under those F*#kin' hot lights in front 1,000 screamin' santa cruz derby fans!!
Thanks Brawley!
 Labels: Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/09/07
 I had an amazingly fun Sunday morning. Originally my league had a scrimmage scheduled for this morning, but due to low numbers and whatever other reasons- unbeknownst to me- the plug was pulled. Did that stop a handful of girls from getting together and doing what we LOVE to do? Oh Hells no. A few of our girls had organized on Friday to meet at the outdoor hockey rink at Mike Fox Skate Park this morning at 10AM.
I knew I was going to go, but did not know to what extent I was going to involve myself. I woke up this morning all cranky. My knee has been aching all weekend and causing me to be a real baby. So I thought about just not going or if I did go I would just be a bench coach or just take pictures.
Roxy called me at 9:30 and said she was on her way to my house, to get ready and to bring my shit with me. She promised me a Peanut Butter Mood' Jumba Juice if I went. How do I say no to that?
Well I ended up having a great time. There were about seven or eight girls that showed up, ready to skate and just have fun. A more then half of the skaters that came where newish girls or skaters that haven't had the opportunity to play just yet.
I knew looking at the number of skaters that were there we couldn't scrimmage. So I offered to coach the girls with help from everyone as far as what they wanted to work on. It was great. Everyone was really helping each other out. The best part was we were all having a great time hanging out with each other.
We worked our way up to some 3 on 3 blocking with the seventh girl playing as jammer, alternating which team she jammed for. I blew the whistle, called penalties, started and stopped the clock and yelled at the pack. It was exciting to see the girls really getting their game on.
I ended up jumping in as a jammer once and even with the knee pain and all really pulled out a decent jam for yours truly. I ended up getting accidentally tripped on one of my passes through the pack and totally ate shit on the asphalt. I was instantly relieved that it was my arm that skid across the pavement and not my knee. I hopped up and finished the jam. Afterwards I was so distracted and ready to go back in and block that I forgot about my arm, that was by then dripping blood.
The girls patched me up and we played one more jam. A few of us skated down to the Boardwalk and got kicked out by one of the rent-a -cops the second we set wheels in the actual park. I love almost being 30 and getting kicked out of places for roller skating.
We ended the morning with a quick pass in Mike Fox Skate Park were I got some decent air on a little jump. It felt really good to just skate for the fun of it. Sometimes I forget about that part of derby. I get so caught up in the business of roller derby, and the mental focus of the competitiveness of games and sometimes even practice, that I really do forget to cut back and just have fun roller skating with my friends.
Hugs & Bruises,
Raven Labels: Derby Spirit, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/09/05
 No one has ever hit me as hard or laid me out like Lulu . . . and I love it. She is the kind of teammate that will inspire and push you to be a better player. Lulu has got one of the biggest derby-hearts of any skater I have met to-date. She has an incredible knowledge of the game, never misses a practice and always knows how to make me laugh. Derby Name: Lulu LockjawNumber: 21 Team(s): Santa Cruz Rollergirls All Stars, Co Captain of the Beach Flat Betties Position(s): Mainly blocker, but I’ve been know to Pivot and Jam during games Hometown: Santa Cruz How did you learn about roller derby and how did you get started?I’ve known about derby since I was little! I’ve been skating since I was tiny. Before there was derby in Santa Cruz, I’d been checking out other leagues. Then I got handed a flier for SC derby and well here I am.Why do you play roller derby?Why not? When I was a kid, roller skating was my escape, being on skates is like flying, combine that with my need for full contact sports and it’s the perfect combination for me.What are your favorite two things about playing roller derby?The rad chicks I skate with and meet, and the rush I get after a really good hit, or awesome jam.How did you get your derby name?My mom calls me Lulu and the rest is from an ex boyfriend…lets leave it at that!What roller derby skates and gear do you use? What skates make you drool?Right now I currently have the Riedell Hellcats, with Radar Revolver wheels. I do like the Answer G rods as well. I am currently awaiting my custom skates. Black Widows that are Royal Blue and Hot Pink!What else, besides play, do you do for your league?I am on the Coaching and Recruiting committee and I am the point person for our Merch committee.What was your worst injury from roller derby so far?Hmm…broken pinky, possible broken nose. I have a torn meniscus, but I am pretty sure that is an old soccer injury that is flaring up due to the nature of derby.How hard is it for you to balance your derby and real life responsibilities?It’s hard. I had a life before derby. I work 40+ hours a week, plus have a boyfriend and family. I barely spend any time with them anymore. I am too tired on the weekends to do anything. I eat, sleep, work and play derby!Where do you see the sport of roller derby in 5 years?Well I hardly see derby in the Olympics any time soon. But man, it would be nice to see derby in the X Games. I mean, to me it seems more competitive and hardcore than skateboarding or BMX biking.What is your theme song?Love Love, Kiss Kiss by Alkaline TrioWhat’s your dream roller derby vacation/travel/trip?A Motor-home and money!What has been your best roller derby moment this season/ever?Getting MVP for one of our bouts
Thanks Lulu!
 Labels: Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/08/26
Know When to Lace Up, Know When to Sit Out
 I think this an all too familiar topic for most derby girls. I recently suffered a knee contusion a week before my last bout for the SCRG Allstars against the Oakland Outlaws. It happened at a mixed skills practice. I was kinda bored and decided to start trying to invent a new hit or something. Basically I was fucking around and hurt myself. I have never had any previous problems with my knees before derby. My left one especially has never caused me any pain or proven to be anything but sturdy. But on that fateful Monday I didn't just land on it once, but twice trying to perfect some sort of crazy hit I had buzzing in my mind. I kept skating. I knew something was not right and by the time practice and I went to take off my skate, shooting pains like nothing I had previously experienced, radiated from my knee. I went home, iced, elevated and by morning I was swollen and couldn't walk. Lucky for me our team has the amazing Dr. Roitz, a sports doctor who treats us for a bargain. She assured me that if I came back to her office every day between then and the bout I would be able to play. The pressure was on. Four of our regular Allstars were out with injuries or were not going to play due to family trips and whatnot. Our roster was slowly dwindling and I felt like the hanging string. The week went on and I spent everyday on my lunch hour sitting under a laser at Dr. Roitz's office. I was healing fast and was able to play in the bout against Oakland. I'm glad for the experience, and as I stated in my previous post it was an amazing game to play in, but I definitely feel like playing in that game did set my healing back a little. I spent all last week off skates and last night attempted my first practice. I know that being off skates for one week is not a long time in the face of derby injuries, but to me one week out is one week missing out. To be totally honestly it was/is absolute mental torture. Not being able to do the simplest things because of a stupid MINOR knee injury is ripping at my ego. I couldn't even drop into a figure-4 fall - I didn't want to even try and risk it. I play with some amazing tough bitches. One of my teammates Brawley Parton suffered a partial PCL tear this season and was back skating with a bionic-woman like brace in no time. Part me feels like I'm letting everyone down while opening up my spot on the team. But I'm assured that's not the case and I'm letting my fears and insecurities get the best of me, letting it taking it's toll on my mental game. I know I will heal soon, and taking it easy is probably the best thing for the longevity of my derby career. I guess all I can do is think good thoughts and visualize a landing for that crazy hit I was trying nail that night. What do ya do? Hugs & Bruises, Raven Labels: injuries, Santa Cruz Rollergirls
2008/08/18
 Yeah you heard me. I'm an exuberant looser.
Saturday night the BADG Oakland Outlaws came down to battle the Santa Cruz Rollergirls on our home track at the Santa Cruz Civic. As some in the derby community may know SCRG is a 1st year team that has, if I may say, been tearin' it up.
We were so excited to play Oakland! And they were amazing players and super awesome people. I'm still in shock that I was skating around with players like Taxi Scab and other members who also play on the Bay Area Derby Girls All Star team. Girls who have been my derby heroes for some time now. At one point I looked into the audience and saw another one of my BADG All Star favs Demanda Riot and thought, "huh . . . I'm usually watching her play, not the other way around."
Their amazing game play and good sportswomanship brought the best out in our team. This was the kind of derby we had been wanting to play all season. Not to discredit other leagues that have come to play us, they been amazing competitors as well. But there was something about how the Outlaws played that made us play more as a complete team then ever before.
To top it off we were all having fun. No one was being a douche and everyone was just out there to play derby with their girls and have a good night.
The final score was something like 127-68 (I think) Oakland. We had held our own against these derby veterans and are better players for it.
We have had some crazy blowouts this season, and I think it was good for our team and our fans to take the loss. We know what we want to play like and what kind of players we want to be.
So I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to Oakland, you have truly raised the bar in my eyes and caused me to fulfilled some of my personal goals as a player.
Hugs and Bruises,
-Raven Von Kaos
Labels: Santa Cruz Rollergirls
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