What’s it all about?
One of the fastest-growing sports in the world and now played by women, men and kids worldwide, roller derby has expanded at an astonishing rate since its reinvention in 2001, with over 1500 international leagues (and 126 of them around Australia). Maybe you saw the movie Whip It, or know a friend of a friend who plays roller derby, or have even been to a game yourself…but didn’t really know what was happening besides a bunch of women skating around in circles?
This class will bust the myths and break down the basics of this fast, hard-hitting game, giving you a better understanding of rules, gameplay and strategy. Not content with just watching from the bleachers? You’ll also learn how to get involved with a local league yourself, whether as a skater, a referee or even a non-skating official.
What will we cover?
Besides a brief history of the sport and the development of its modern version, you’ll learn more about the rules and strategy used in flat-track derby and how to understand the game. We’ll also cover the roles of the officials, other variants of the game, an overview of leagues around Melbourne, Victoria and Australia, and what you need to know if you want to get involved in roller derby yourself. You’ll also find out about the world’s top players, where to find more derby videos and resources online, and how to come up with your own derby name.
Who will be teaching?
This American Strife is a skater with the Northside Rollers, a women’s flat-track roller derby league based in the Preston/Reservoir area. A former ice hockey player, coach and referee in her native New York City, she strapped on wheels two years ago after finally checking out ‘this roller derby thing’ her friends kept telling her about. She currently plays for Northside’s Rebel Alliance travel team and Pulp Vixens home team. When not on skates, she’s an editor and writer who goes by the name of Ali Lemer.
This image belongs to Cass McBride, thanks!