Kim and Liam Anderson work the Jerzey Derby Brigade concession stand during a game. Credit Tom Gaylord, 2011
Submitted by Debbie Ronca, skater for the Jerzey Derby Brigade
Women’s roller derby is alive and well in Morris County, NJ. The Jerzey Derby Brigade (JDB), made up of about 40 women of all ages and backgrounds, just kicked off their 2012 season.
Women’s roller derby prides itself on being “for the women, by the women,” and the Jerzey Derby Brigade walks the talk. A multitude of the team members are moms, and many bring their kids to practice each week, where they are happy and proud to watch their mom play and also make new friends with the other kids.
The roller derby games, or bouts, are family friendly as well. Kids enjoy the fast-paced action and love picking out a favorite skater to cheer for. Child-friendly activities during bouts might include Halloween costume contests, hula hooping and dancing, or coloring pictures of roller skates.
Kim Anderson, a mom and skater, began her career with the JDB as a fan with her husband and son. Her son, Liam, challenged her to join the team and she did. Now, she says, “He’s a total JDB groupie. Liam loves going to bouts and helping out with whatever I’m doing: hanging posters and setting up for the bout. He hopes to one day be a derby referee and already has his name picked out.”
Even better, roller derby reinforces a positive view of women in sports. As Kim says, “Liam sees women of all shapes and sizes and abilities coming together as a team, kicking some serious butt and having a good time.”
See below for the Jerzey Derby Brigade’s 2012 Home Bout Schedule. Bring the kids!
April 14: Intra League
May 5: Hell Razors
May 19: Strong Island Derby Revolution
June 9: Boardwalk Brawlers
Sept. 8: Pair O Dice City Rollers
Sept. 22: Susquehanna Derby Vixens
Oct. 20: Heart of Appalachia Roller Derby
Nov. 3: Scar Derby
Nov. 17: Intra League
To learn more about the Jerzey Derby Brigade, visit their website at www.jerzeyderby.com.
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