December 2024

As the skates are stowed, the bruises fade, and the echo of wheels on track quiets down, roller derby’s off-season rolls in—not with a crash but a controlled plow stop. For some, it’s a time to recover and recalibrate; for others, it’s an opportunity to perfect their apex jumps in the grocery aisle. Whatever the approach, the off-season is where grit meets grace off the track, proving that derby warriors never truly hang up their helmets—they just trade jam scores for gym reps (and maybe a well-deserved nap). With that in mind, try-outs and skate workouts are right around the corner and soon we will all be back together again.

Upcoming Events

February 13th - Valentine’s Open Skate

Skating is my Valentine! RCRD will be hosting a Valentine’s open skate. There is nothing more romantic than skating with your real true love, Roller Skates!

February 22nd - Rats Away Game

No pressure future Rats! First away Seeding Game is against Fayetteville. EAT TRASH AND SKATE FAST! GO RATS

End of Year Party

What a night! Our end-of-year roller derby party was everything we could’ve hoped for—full of laughter, memories, singing karaoke, and some seriously impressive dance moves. We celebrated our victories and reflected on the incredible year we’ve had as a team. The night was a perfect way to close out the season. Thank you to everyone who showed up, dressed up, and brought the energy, and a HUGE shout out to Winnie for putting it all together. 

One last congratulations to all the Superlative Winners:
Memorable Mentor: Lizness Casual
Under the Radar Blocker: Bad Lass
Under the Radar Jammer: Shred Flanders
The Great Motivator: Dio
Twinkle Toes: Cannibelle Lee
Humble Badass: Sweets
Grace under fire TRACK EDITION: Grim Possible
Graceful under fire LEADERSHIP EDITION: Cleave
Most improved blocker: Bad Lass
Most improved Jammer: Killer B
MVP Blocker: Sweets
MVP Jammer: Boo
Speed Demon: Cannabelle
Last One Standing: Raven
Up and Comer: RatSkull
Double Threat: Country Jam

Team Spotlights

Poe’s Punishers - Punky D Luffy #56

How long have you been playing derby?It's been about a year since I joined RCRD as a rookie, so last season was my first time playing.

How long have you been with RCRD?
It's been about a year, I believe.

Favorite position?
Definitely Jammer. I like being the star of the show! 🌟

How'd you pick your derby name?
I love One Piece. I've watched all 1,100+ episodes and read all of the manga chapters. Monkey D Luffy is the Captain of the Straw Hat Pirates and my favorite character. He's brave, joyful, kind, and deeply connected to his inner child. He's also an absolute idiot. I really admire him as a leader and fighter.

Roller derby "origin story"?
I saw some very hot skaters passing out flyers in Strawberry Street Market when I worked there. I remember stammering as the person handed me a flyer and talked to me about joining. They were so gorgeous and I was so nervous, haha! At the next rookie orientation, I finally worked up the courage to go and the rest is history.

What's something you really struggled with when you started out, but feel good about now?
I couldn't even stop myself on skates when I started the rookie program. I'd say I've made some incredible progress since then. I can jam, block, hit, get hit, jump, etc. I've learned to trust my body and muscle memory too!

Favorite thing to do after a hard practice?
I usually starfish and let my cats sniff my gear. They love a stinky knee pad, full of interesting things apparently.

Favorite derby memory?
The RCRD camping trip was the big moment I realized I loved this team and roller derby as a sport. The night hike specifically was impactful. It felt so good to be surrounded by my friends. The laughter, the excitement of a night time hike, and I'll never forget Smack screaming about the snakes. Haha! I felt like a kid and I felt safe to be myself. It was really nice.

How has derby positively impacted you off the track?
When I'm comfortable with people, it's easy for me to speak my mind. But I've always been more reserved outside of that, I wouldn't speak up for myself or feel brave enough to jump into conversation. It's hard to know how I'll be received outside of safe spaces, but derby has helped me build that confidence and courage so I can share my own voice no matter where I am.

RCRD FANS!

We love engaging with our community, so we have rolled out (pun intended! 😉) a few ways for you to connect with us and get featured in our BRUISEletter! Here's how:

  1. RCRD in the Wild: Spot someone wearing their RCRD merch out in the world? Get consent for a pic and send it in. We love seeing your team spirit!

  2. Fan Art Submissions: Submit your RCRD paintings, digital art, stories and more! We love when y'all show your support and create with us!

  3. RCRD Featured Fans: Show off your team spirit, get loud, proud, and a little rowdy for the team, and show your support at our games for a chance to be one of our Featured Fans and get a spotlight in our BRUISEletter!

🖤💚 Email your submissions to pr.rivercityrollerderby@gmail.com 💚🖤