ROLLER DERBY:
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Skilled they are, determined as much, just whatever you do, don’t call em prissy!
Namoi Valley Roller Derby League (NVRDL) is skating round for another year on the competition circuit and is calling for “Fresh Meat” to join their roller ranks.
It might sound intimidating but NVRDL president Erin Walton aka, Glitta Spitta, assures us it’s all part of the show.
Fresh Meat is actually the entry level qualification for competitors before they graduate to competition standard and there are plenty of safety provisions in place.
Erin added while roller derby remains a contact sport, it’s not quite at the same level of yesteryear where punches and the like were commonplace.
No skills are required to join and the league can even supply some of the gear; all they request from newcomers is a good dose of healthy enthusiasm and keen sense of adventure.
"Come as a non-skater and we’ll teach you."
- NVRDL president Erin Walton
“Come as a non-skater and we’ll teach you,” Erin said.
“Guys as well, they play in our co-ed games.
“It’s great for fitness and you meet a whole lot of new people.
“Just come and have a look, see what we’re about.”
NVRDL has been running for about a year after picking up where the Tamworth league left off.
Tamworth’s league struggled for numbers and eventually disbanded due to lack of interest.
“They’ve folded good and proper,” Erin said.
Since then, popularity has grown and the new NVRDL has recruited a few players from Tamworth and Narrabri who travel when they can for the twice-weekly training sessions in Gunnedah.
All up, NVRDL has about half a dozen skaters on the books who are “ready to play” but would welcome a few more to strengthen their league.
One recent recruit to the NVRDL ranks is Canadian tourist “Electric Warrior” who is making the most of her stay in Gunnedah.
With a background in inline skating, roller derby is something she had always wanted to try but never had the opportunity back home.
Asked if she had any tips for rookie skaters the warrior replied “it’s just about getting your balance at the start, then it’s easy.”
Competitors aged 18 years and older are invited to join the NVRDL action. Those who aren’t sure about playing yet but still want to be involved, the league is also seeking non-skating officials.
NVRDL trains at the Gunnedah Showground Griffith Pavilion on Thursday 5.30-7.30pm and Sunday 5-7pm.
The group has earmarked a possible training bootcamp in May with neighbouring roller derby leagues.
Stay in touch with the Namoi Valley Roller Derby League by liking their page on Facebook or email: glittaspitta.nvrdl@hotmail.com for more information.
