A new year for Delta's Angels! 2013

After a year of recruiting, researching, and building the junior league finally has 12 active skaters!  We are collaborating with Memphis Roller Derby and plan on joining the Junior Roller Derby Association as soon as possible.  We will soon have merchandise on our website as well.  Meet Team Angel's!  Two of our girls are still without photos, however, we are working on it.

Memphis Junior Roller Derby is growing!

Hi Everyone!

I am very happy to tell you that the junior league is growing.  The girls created their own team name, colors, and one of the skaters made a drawing for a logo!  I digitized it, and now we are rolling!

More good news.  Our parent league and the PR firm Obsidian have booked us a radio interview on July 3!

Check out our fundraiser, and please contribute if you can!

Indiegogo - Memphis Junior Roller Derby - Start up

Happy skating!  and... never give up.

Fundraiser for Memphis Junior Roller Derby :)

Hi everyone!

We have started a fundraising campaign to help the junior girls get up and rolling!  Please take a moment to visit our fundraising page, and if you can make a contribution, that would be amazing!  Thanks!

Indiegogo - Memphis Junior Roller Derby

We have also updated our website.  MJRD

PrissKilla Season opener this weekend! Hustlin' Rollers take on St. Louis

Although I will not be skating this season :(, my team has its season opener this weekend at the fairgrounds.  Check out Memphis Roller Derby.com for details :).  Once again another really cool poster!

College Night at Memphis Roller Derby this Saturday!

JOIN US!

<3 <3 <3

ShadowCon & Memphis Roller Derby

If you are in the area...and love games, come visit our booth at ShadowCon tomorrow!

http://www.shadowcon.org/

January 14, 2012 ~ Zombies vs Cheerleaders!

Season 6, Memphis Roller Derby! Here we go!

It's bout time again!  January is also a recruitment month for fresh meat skaters, refs, volunteers, and NSO's.  Check out the season schedule and information regarding recruitment at Memphis Roller Derby.com.  I am working the first bout, and may be skating the bout on the 28th depending on how my foot is holding up. 

If I didn't mention it, the past few months have been tough.  At some point in September, I injured my left foot.  Despite an x-ray, the doctor cannot seem to figure out what is wrong with it.  I took seven weeks off and wore a boot, but it still gives me pain.  We start back to practice next week, and if I skate and it doesn't give me pain, I will continue, if it gives me pain again, I may consider retiring from skating, yet continue to work in a volunteer capacity as a non-skating official, referee, and continue to work on getting the junior league up and running.  

Wish me luck and as always, thank you for reading.

Memphis JUNIOR Roller Derby ~ A long time coming

A junior roller derby league in Memphis?  Yes, correct!  This is a project that many derby girls in Memphis, and many future derby girls are looking forward to.  A few months ago, I was given the go ahead to begin researching the best way to bring a junior derby league to Memphis.  At the time, the greatest challenge the junior league faced was a stipulation that there is no available funding...however, there is rental space available on Wednesday nights to the junior league if we can recruit enough people!  This is exciting news...

After researching the standard for the majority of other junior leagues around the United States, it seems the junior leagues are separate non-profits who work in collaboration with their parent leagues, therefore, financial problems solved!

The opportunity to be a separate non-profit affords the junior league the possibility of not only applying dues to venue space via rental through their parent league (my league Memphis Roller Derby), it also provides the opportunity to raise funds for their uniforms, equipment, and an provide low-income children to participate through a sliding scale dues program.  The possibilities are endless to involve local community centers, skate shops, and perhaps the new KROC recreation center which is under construction right now.

Here is a link to the Memphis Junior Roller Derby Facebook page, please "like" it and share if you know someone who may be interested in volunteering their time or a child who may be interested in skating
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Memphis-Junior-Roller-Derby/307102895981923

Here is a link to our Twitter page:
https://twitter.com/#!/MJrRollerDerby

Please follow, like, tweet, retweet!

 

Banked Track Action Live on JustinTV, Tonight (11.18) & Saturday (11.19)

Some great derby action LIVE on JustinTV~ just click on the link and tune in.  Next up is Los Angeles Derby Dolls versus Chicago's Windy City Rollers.

Roller Derby LIVE Feed

Updates...

There is little time to blog regularly, however, I will try to more often now that I am on leave for eight weeks.  In this post;

• PrissKillas go to the Championships!
• PrissKillas vs River Valley Roller Girls - 10/22
• PrissKillas get two newbies
• Race for Grace
• Tobey Skate Park Opening
• Ho!Ho!Ho! Burlesque Show
• St. Jude Marathon

September 10, 2011:

The PrissKillas first time for a shot at the championships.  The PrissKillas lost this game, 74/224.  The game was fun, despite the new strategies used by the Women of Mass Destruction, the PrissKillas managed to eek out 74 points ;).  Here is the program roster from that game, however, I was not included in the program, which makes me kind of sad, given I am an original founder of the league, and the PrissKillas.  Despite the glaring mistake...I forgive the powers that be...it was exciting to go to the championships.

PrissKilla Game Roster actually include:

Courtney Ratts - Captain

Olga Von Detta - Co-Captain

Smackie Chan

Blown Fuse

Anne Tag a Knee

Midnight Choker

Lucifer's Nightmare

Heavy Duty

Susan 4 a Bruisin

Dirty Constance

Hitsy Bitsy

October 22, 2011:

The PrissKillas traveled to Ft. Smith, Arkansas to bout the River Valley Roller Girls.  It was a fun trip, and although we lost, we had a great time.  Here are a few pictures:

Hitsy Bitsy, Gimmemo, Lyndalicious

Nancy Dockery, Hood Ratt, Anne Tag a Knee

Cleveland and Gimmemo

The final score was 154/79 or something in that range!

The PKP roster:

Courtney Ratts - Captain

Olga Von Detta - Co-Captain

Lyndalicious

Chica Bandita

La Sucia

Dirty Constance

Anne Tag a Knee

Heavy Duty

Midnight Choker

Honey Badger - Newbie

Cy D. Fect - Newbie

Hitsy Bitsy

Here is the program, but it seems the skater roster isn't accurate, but that's derby for you.

On to our Newbies!  PrissKillas welcome Cy. D. Fect and Honey Badger, both girls played an extraordinary game for their first time out.  It was amazing to watch their transformation from the beginning of the game to the end of the game.  Amazing.

November 5, 2011:

Memphis Roller Derby participated in a fundraiser Race for Grace for the Church Health Center of Memphis.  The race organizers permitted the derby girls to skate the race, and there was a phenomenal turn out which raised a lot of money for the Church Health Center.

From L to R (top row) Joy D'Vicious, *cannot be named*, Missy, Dirty Constance, Hitsy Bitsy, La Sucia, Terra Torture
From L to R (bottom row) Franny Pack, Pain Dilla, Cy D. Fect, Midtown Mauhler, Lil' Cinner, Honey Badger, Wolf Blitzer, Brains n' Booty

although I look hideously overweight, you can find race photos here.

November 9, 2011:

Official opening of Tobey Skate Park ~ Memphis' first skate park with nearly five years of work by local Dr. and skater, Dr. Aaron Shafer.  The skate park was designed by Wormhoudt, and is a complete success. 

Those are a lot of happy skaters.  I am the girl in black with arms raised in a V. ;)  V = Victory for Memphis progressing.

Moving on...

Upcoming events:  Ho!Ho!Ho! Burlesque show

The burlesque show is an annual even for Memphis Roller Derby and is held at the Hi-Tone.  In previous years it features skaters burlesque routines, although somewhat more tame than than general burlesque shows ;).  

December 3, 2011:

Last, but not least, Memphis Roller Derby is participating in the St. Jude Marathon, both as runners and the league has a spirit station located near Black Lodge Video in Midtown.  If you are a runner and would like to participate for a good cause, please visit St. Jude Marathon website for details.

I think I covered everything...

Support your local roller derby!  Skate or die.

Race for Grace ~ Memphis Roller Derby supports the Church Health Center of Memphis

This Saturday, Memphis Roller Derby is Racing for Grace in support of a local organization that provides affordable health care to those who are without.  The Church Health Center is a non-profit organization that has a walk-in clinic everyday, and charges only $35 per visit, regardless of treatment required.  They also have an orientation in which one may attend, and become a part of the health centers regular program that provides both medical and dental at a sliding scale rate.  For those in our community that cannot afford major health care, this organization is a blessing.  If you would like to join the Race for Grace you can register here.

WREG, a long-time supporter of Memphis Roller Derby took the time to help promote this event, please join this great cause.

Enjoy the video!
Race for Grace Skaters! via WREG Live at 9

Atom Protective Gear

I am really excited about these!  Actually, waiting desperately for these pads to emerge.  I have tried so many skate pads, most of which are extremely bulky, slip, not geared for roller derby at all.  They are somewhat pricey, but it may be they use Kevlar.  Regardless, I will be purchasing and reviewing these asap!  Thank you Atomatrix for designing a pad made for women playing this sport...and although, I am an advocate of a good jam is when you don't fall down, I am curious how these pads stand up to a brutal beating of knock downs.  Time will tell!  If you are interested in purchasing them, they are sold through local retailers, although, the last time I tried, the Atom website did not have a purchase key.  For those who live in Memphis, try http://www.bluescityskates.com

WFTDA Live regional and national tournaments

The Woman's Flat Track Derby Association now has the capability to broadcast live derby via your PC or smart phone!! Very exciting for the derby world. If you want to watch the final day of the South Central Regionals catch it live on http://www.wftda.com

Double-Header! Tomorrow, August 20, 2011

Memphis Roller Derby presents:

Double-Header August 20th, 2011

Angels of Death vs. Scenic City (Chattanooga)
Women of Mass Destruction vs. Tulsa Derby Brigade

Doors Open at 5, First Bout Starts at 6

Adults $10, Kids 5-12 $5, Kids 4 & under free

Beer, Concessions and MRD merch available for purchase.

Mid-South Fairgrounds, Pipkin Building

After the game, continue the fun at Rock for Love a fundraising benefit for the Church Health Center.  The Church Health Center provides low-cost medical care for people without health insurance and is the primary care provider for local musicians in Memphis.  Here is a link: Rock for Love.

Click picture for a larger image:

PrissKillas take the lead ~ 125 PKP / AOD 39

On July 16th, the PrissKilla Prezleys faced off against the Angels of Death, home teams (aka inter league) teams of Memphis Roller Derby. 

The PrissKillas brought it together rotating recent players, recovering from injuries, Lyn-da-licious, with newbies (well kinda a newbie) Dirty Constance (me) and Hitsy Bitsy, and travel team players (who played a game just one hour before this game) inter-changing line-ups to give everyone ample track time and gain experience. 

Experience is exactly the result.  The Angels of Death and the PrissKilla Prezleys played hard.  Several new skaters drafted to the Women of Mass Destruction, picked up the game with the Angels, which added a dynamic to the game.  The Angels of Death named PKP Hitsy Bitsy (aka Emily Evans)

 the MVP for the PrissKillas, and the PrissKillas named Stephanie Kurtz as MVP for the Angels.

The result of this game propels the PrissKilla Prezleys into the September inter-league championship bout.  This is the first time from the creation of Memphis Roller Derby in 2006, that the PrissKilla Prezleys have a chance to take home the championship trophy.  Wish them (us) luck.  The Women of Mass Destruction are a tour DE force, and regardless of the championship outcome...we (all the girls of MRD) will have a great time!

Scabs Knee Pads & Elbow Pad Review

I recently purchased a combination set (elbow & knee pads) of thin profile Scabs pads. 

My reasoning behind the purchase is because after skating for years in either Pro-tech or Triple-8's, which I find very bulky, I decided to try something new.  My main goal was to slim and thin down, because I do not get knocked down as much as being a newbie, which to me is a good thing. 

However, my goal of "trying something new," somewhat back-fired on me.  The Scabs Elbow Pads are very bulky and somewhat uncomfortable.  Although they provide ample protection, they are large and I believe predominately made for extreme high ramp skateboarding.

The knee pads are thin in width, and the padding is amazing...very protective.  However, not if you are wearing nylons or tights of any type.  I understand now why they call them Scabs.  We played a game last weekend, and although I managed to remain upright for a majority of the game, the few time I landed on my knees was somewhat catastrophic in terms of pad protection.  I think this is because I decided to wear nylons that day, a change from my normal routine.  Fatal decision wearing these pads and a scab is exactly what I received.

I'll give three stars to the Scabs knee pads for padding and strong Velcro that does not require duct tape to secure...but they receive a minus two stars for internal slippage while wearing nylons/tights that results in the loss of skin...for no good reason and a knee pads intention is to prevent injury, not cause it.  This injury should be one of outdoor skating, skin meeting concrete, but it is not.

In my experience with Pro-tech's and Triple-8's, this has never been an issue regardless what type of leg tights, nylons, or fishnets I have worn.

I do love my Scabs pads, but not the scab on my knee.  Live and learn. 

Recommendations if you own these pads:  Do not wear nylons that extend over the knee or wrap your knees before you put on nylons.

I am going to sell the elbow pads and have fallen in love with TSG brand, that easily slip on and off and are padded sufficiently.

TSG are reasonably priced and protect, without the bulk.

Magnolia Roller Vixens take the lead in the last jam - Final Score: 103 Magnolia / 99 Prisskillas

Similar to many sports, sometimes the lead change happens in the last minute or so of a game.  The Vixens played hard, on a 4 game winning streak, the game against the Prisskillas, would end that streak if they lost.  They won, and continue on a 5 game winning streak and this is a huge accomplishment for this team.  As stated in a previous post, the Magnolia Roller Vixens have supported Memphis Roller Derby from the beginning, and I am proud to say I learned Saturday night, that as a mentor league, one can only wish the best for the apprentice league, and sometimes although a loss is a loss, I would much rather lose a game in the last minute of the game to such an awesome team as Magnolia, than to lose like that to a stranger.  Congratulations Magnolia Roller Vixens, you earned it!  Here are some pics from the game, courtesy of Rhett Amick, www.rhettamick.com.

You can also find more photos on our PrissKilla Prezley's facebook page and Magnolia Roller Vixens Facebook page.  If you're so inclined, please fan our PrissKilla fan page on Facebook! :) Derby Love.

Dirty C

I was an Angel of Death, and it was fun!

On June 18, I picked up a game with the Angels of Death (AOD) and it was a lot of fun and a great learning experience.  It was the first game skating since skating with the Beach Brawl Sk8tr Dolls (BBSD) in August of 2009.  The bout was called "Schools out for Summer." We lost this one, however, I am certain every team member both borrowed, new, or veteran, skated away learning new strategies.  We skated against the Women of Mass Destruction, which is currently Memphis Roller Derby's (MRD) inter-league season champion.  The AOD held that title the first three or four years of MRD, however, teams change and they are currently short a full roster and borrowed a few PrissKilla Prezley's (PKP) to fill the void. 

This Saturday, in Jackson, Mississippi will be my second game back on the flat-track, and I am very excited about it!  The bout is called R2 BEATU, a play on R2 D2, and because the PrissKillas are fem-bots from outerspace, I think this will be a very fun bout!  The bout is hosted by WFTDA's apprentice league, the Magnolia Roller Vixens, founded by former Captial City Rollergirl, Rowdy Reeta Richochet. 

Magnolia Roller Vixens have supported MRD from the beginning, and it is so exciting to see their progress through the ranks of WFTDA.

Roller derby is a transient sport, and I am thankful for that.  It is refreshing to know that if I need to move to a different city, there will be a roller derby league there.  Rowdy Reeta and I skated as teammates together with BBSD, me as a BBSD and Reeta as a pick-up skater...it was a lot of fun, and I know I won't enjoy skating against her this weekend, but this is the sport of roller derby.  Play tough on the track, then play hard at the after party!

If you are interested in taking a trek to Jackson - you can purchase tickets here:  Magnolia Roller Vixens and on Facebook @ R2 BeatU

On July 16th, 2011, the PrissKillas bout again, this time against the Angels of Death.  This should be an exciting game too!  Support your local roller derby!  Tickets available on-line at: Memphis Roller Derby