Announcements:
o Possible Skate Location – Thom and Janna are speaking with someone who owns a ware house we may be able to rent. The owner is willing to meet with us to talk shop. More info to follow.
o Practice this Sunday will be from 5pm to 8pm. See Thom’s email for the skate schedule.
o Sock Hop – Communicate with Brook and/or Cassie to see what is needed. Please be at the Dodger at 8pm to help set up. The party begins at 9pm; it will probably be busy by 10 or 11pm.
o Cassie and P attended Richmond’s practice with Charlottesville on Tuesday’s. They have some new drills for us to review with interesting info. Thom allotted time in the training schedules for both Sunday and Tuesday for us to work on the drills. Can’t wait!
o Fresh Meat Program– Brook is the recruitment director. We are not actively recruiting at this time but if you know of someone who wants to join please bring them. The Fresh Meat process will consist of skating with the fresh meat group for 3 months. All coaches will oversee the training along with skaters’ encouragement.
· 1st month: Free to determine if they are a good fit; i.e. physically, mentally, personally, etc…
· 2nd month: Ok… They are committed to derby! Dues and USARS are required at the beginning of the month.
· 3rd month: Continue gaining skills and assessments. At the end of month 3, the skater is discussed by the TEAM to determine if they are a good fit. Specifics to follow.
o USARS are due by October 14th, the second Tuesday practice in October. $55. More information to follow.
o Monthly Meeting – because a number of people were out of town this week, we will meet early October. More information to follow.
o Committees – Don’t forget to be working on your committee. Your committee should have progress to show at next meeting. If you are not on a committee or aren’t sure what you should be working on, contact April, Thom, or any other board member for direction. We hope to have specifics released to everyone by next meeting; i.e. who is doing what, contacts, etc…
Practice was as follows:
Skates Off:
o TEAM Stretch – Announcements will be discussed during stretch and work out to save time for drills. The goal is to stretch for 5-10 minutes max, then exercises for 20-25 minutes max. The new work out may take a little longer than planned. Once everyone is on the same track, TEAM stretch and TEAM work out should be completed within 30minutes.
o TEAM Work Out – We will do this at every practice and are expecting everyone to do this at least 3 times per week. Give your body a day to rest between working out. We will slowly raise the reps as we go. NOTE: when working out, the pain will go away the more you use your muscles. If you do nothing, everything you’ve worked for.
Each set need to be done 3 times:
· Lunges – go down, hold, and turn torso left, right, left, right with arms level to chest (fists facing each other).
· Leg Lifts – Abs – left, straight, right = 1. Do that 10 times. Suck your tummy in!
· Pelvic Push – Torso – 5 seconds hold x 3 = 15 seconds.
· Crab Walk – Total Body – 5 one way, 5 the other way.
· Back stretch – Butt, Thighs, Torso – 5 each leg on back then 5 each leg on tummy.
· Push Ups – Upper Body - 10
Skates On:
· 10, 20, 30, 40 x THREE – 1st and 3rd regular, 2nd set dips
· Belt Whips – Becky was kind enough to let us borrow two belts to practice whips. Instead of using your arms, you grab the person’s belt and whip yourself around. It’s great for getting through pacts. This detours that skaters from being whipped into other players causing a huge wreck.
· Wedge Drill – Equal number of skaters in the same line with equal number of skaters in front and behind. You should always be able to touch the person in front and both sides of you. A pivot sets the pace in front (NO ONE SHOULD PASS THE PIVOT) slowing down by using the wedge method.
· Scrimmage 2 vs 2 with 1 Jammer – we will be scrimmaging each other with equal # of skaters and if necessary, one jammer. If we have enough people, we will scrimmage with a full TEAM.
· Fresh Meat – Drills with Thom – Becky, Lisa, Sarah, Chuck, and Carry worked with Thom working on basic drills and fundamentals. They are all quickly improving making the TEAM proud! Keep up the good work TEAM!
· Cool Down Skate
· TEAM Stretch
o We start as a TEAM, we finish as a TEAM.
o We stretch as a TEAM and work out as a TEAM.
o We skate as a TEAM.
o We do not leave TEAM members behind, start, or finish without them.
o We check our attitudes at the door to become a closer TEAM.
o We encourage the TEAM to push harder.
The Negotiator 8.2.0. Baby!
Official Blog of the Shenandoah Valley's Premier All Women's Flat Track Roller Derby League
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Derby Talk 9/14/08 Practice with Charlottesville Derby Dames
Derby Talk; Sunday Practice 9/14/08
Announcements:
First off, thank you to everyone who helped with the car wash; it was VERY successful!!! Other than the $$$, we were able to spread the word of derby. After a few events, I feel our Fresh Meat committee will expand with great demand.
Sunday Practice with Charlottesville Derby Dames:
We had a GREAT practice with Charlottesville Derby Dames. All the girls were very nice, unique, and supportive. The following is an overview of what we practiced:
Skates off…
· Group stretch lead by April.
Any announcements will be presented during group stretch at the beginning and end of each practice. This way we don't lose focus in the middle of practice. It's like stopping in the middle of a LARGE hill to take a break. Take a break when you get to the top! We will still have breaks, just not 15+ breaks…
· Strength exercises lead by Thom
Ooooo it hurts so good! We are going to be working on core exercises every practice to build muscle, improve balance, and to be hot hot hot! Janna and Nicole are working on a routine for everyone to complete on and off the rink. This will give Thom more time to work on fun drills. Just remember, the pain will go away!
STRETCH! STRETCH! STRETCH! Stretch in the mornings and before you go to bed. Though your muscles hurt, the pain will reside once you work them again. Become a couch potato and the pain wasn't worth it at all. You will lose anything you built. Eventually you are toning, instead of building. Don't enable yourselfe, encourage yourself!
Skates on!
· 10-20-30-40 – Because Cville was here, we did not skate 30 minute endurance. We wanted to utilize our time on drills.
· Weaving Drill – we split in two groups (Rocktown and Cville) to practice the typical weaving drill. We are finding that people still need to push themselves harder to keep up while others need to pay attention to the group speed. With that being said…
· Blocking Drill – One person blocks while the other person tries to get around. This is a one on one drill that will help improve your balance and agility.
· Slowing Down Drill – Cville introduced the best drill for keeping the pack together and being sneaky at the same time! Line up 3+ skaters in a row. Each skater should be able to touch the person behind, beside, and in front of them at all times. The pacers in the front keep the speed then randomly slowing down by using a wedge method (like skiing). You have to slow down as best as possible without using your hands, toe stops, or t-stops.
Fresh Meat…
We need to keep encouraging our fresh meat team. They are kicking ass by learning the fundamentals, rules, and the world of derby. Give props to Cary and Sara for jumping into some drills that exceeded their skate level. Way to push it girls!
Scrimmage: Colors VS Black (TEAMs mixed)…
· Each TEAM had 8 players, allowing us to sub 3 at a time. This gave us the opportunity to learn by watching and playing without killing ourselves. Everyone took some hard falls and kicked ass! Some were disappointed in their skating ability while others were impressed that they could keep up!
Closing Note…
We ALL have to remember is that we ALL are still learning. We started in February of 2008; ONLY 7 months ago!!! The surrounding teams have been with each other for a bit longer and most have sister teams to learn from. We are from scratch as others before us. You can't get any better by giving up or getting frustrated. Take your frustrations out on derby. Keep your head up and work harder to improve the skills you feel you lack. Use your team mates for encouragement and assistance to guide you. Everyone needs to improve some way or another and we can't do it alone! Don't take constructive criticism personally. You will never get any better without direction. It doesn't matter if it's coming from the coach or your fellow skater, be POSITIVE. On the flip side, if you have CONSTRUCTIVE criticism, share it.
Austa Lasagna...
The Negotiator 8.2.0 Baby!
Announcements:
First off, thank you to everyone who helped with the car wash; it was VERY successful!!! Other than the $$$, we were able to spread the word of derby. After a few events, I feel our Fresh Meat committee will expand with great demand.
Sunday Practice with Charlottesville Derby Dames:
We had a GREAT practice with Charlottesville Derby Dames. All the girls were very nice, unique, and supportive. The following is an overview of what we practiced:
Skates off…
· Group stretch lead by April.
Any announcements will be presented during group stretch at the beginning and end of each practice. This way we don't lose focus in the middle of practice. It's like stopping in the middle of a LARGE hill to take a break. Take a break when you get to the top! We will still have breaks, just not 15+ breaks…
· Strength exercises lead by Thom
Ooooo it hurts so good! We are going to be working on core exercises every practice to build muscle, improve balance, and to be hot hot hot! Janna and Nicole are working on a routine for everyone to complete on and off the rink. This will give Thom more time to work on fun drills. Just remember, the pain will go away!
STRETCH! STRETCH! STRETCH! Stretch in the mornings and before you go to bed. Though your muscles hurt, the pain will reside once you work them again. Become a couch potato and the pain wasn't worth it at all. You will lose anything you built. Eventually you are toning, instead of building. Don't enable yourselfe, encourage yourself!
Skates on!
· 10-20-30-40 – Because Cville was here, we did not skate 30 minute endurance. We wanted to utilize our time on drills.
· Weaving Drill – we split in two groups (Rocktown and Cville) to practice the typical weaving drill. We are finding that people still need to push themselves harder to keep up while others need to pay attention to the group speed. With that being said…
· Blocking Drill – One person blocks while the other person tries to get around. This is a one on one drill that will help improve your balance and agility.
· Slowing Down Drill – Cville introduced the best drill for keeping the pack together and being sneaky at the same time! Line up 3+ skaters in a row. Each skater should be able to touch the person behind, beside, and in front of them at all times. The pacers in the front keep the speed then randomly slowing down by using a wedge method (like skiing). You have to slow down as best as possible without using your hands, toe stops, or t-stops.
Fresh Meat…
We need to keep encouraging our fresh meat team. They are kicking ass by learning the fundamentals, rules, and the world of derby. Give props to Cary and Sara for jumping into some drills that exceeded their skate level. Way to push it girls!
Scrimmage: Colors VS Black (TEAMs mixed)…
· Each TEAM had 8 players, allowing us to sub 3 at a time. This gave us the opportunity to learn by watching and playing without killing ourselves. Everyone took some hard falls and kicked ass! Some were disappointed in their skating ability while others were impressed that they could keep up!
Closing Note…
We ALL have to remember is that we ALL are still learning. We started in February of 2008; ONLY 7 months ago!!! The surrounding teams have been with each other for a bit longer and most have sister teams to learn from. We are from scratch as others before us. You can't get any better by giving up or getting frustrated. Take your frustrations out on derby. Keep your head up and work harder to improve the skills you feel you lack. Use your team mates for encouragement and assistance to guide you. Everyone needs to improve some way or another and we can't do it alone! Don't take constructive criticism personally. You will never get any better without direction. It doesn't matter if it's coming from the coach or your fellow skater, be POSITIVE. On the flip side, if you have CONSTRUCTIVE criticism, share it.
Austa Lasagna...
The Negotiator 8.2.0 Baby!
Friday, September 12, 2008
Taping Skates and No Toe Stops!
After all the bouts I had been to never really thought about WHY everyone was putting duct tape over thier laces... well 3 weeks and 3 pair of laces later.... I know why.
Maybe everyone else figured this one out before me, but practicing fall drills over and over tear up laces hard core. I got three rolls of duct tape for my girls to have a regular practices to cover thier laces up. It helps SO MUCH.
Our floors are a little rough from sanding, but I suggest to anyone, put tape over your laces, it save the pain of re-lacing in the long run.
Also, a friend our the team that skated roller hockey suggested to me to skate WITHOUT TOE STOPS! Wow, I do NOT suggest this to Derby Girls.
I feel over all (once you get use to it) that yes my skating is better from not having them. You have to force yourself to get up and start off level footed. It is a big change. But I feel my crossovers are smoother and even with whipping, I know i dont trip over my stops (i had the large bell ones).
I suggest for Derby girls to skate with the small toe stops. They give you the extra little pushes that you need to help spritnt at times. But if you want, try it without them, you just have to learn to "cut" into the track more with your inside wheels.
Anyway, that is all for now. We are skating with C'ville this weekend for a general practice, should be a great time! Plus the car wash on the in the morning (the 13th) need to raise some funds! So if you are reading stop by and see us at Function4 Sports on Rte 33. I'll be hanging out and chatting AND filling buckets as the girls wash the cars!
Troch
Director of Training for RockTownRollers
Maybe everyone else figured this one out before me, but practicing fall drills over and over tear up laces hard core. I got three rolls of duct tape for my girls to have a regular practices to cover thier laces up. It helps SO MUCH.
Our floors are a little rough from sanding, but I suggest to anyone, put tape over your laces, it save the pain of re-lacing in the long run.
Also, a friend our the team that skated roller hockey suggested to me to skate WITHOUT TOE STOPS! Wow, I do NOT suggest this to Derby Girls.
I feel over all (once you get use to it) that yes my skating is better from not having them. You have to force yourself to get up and start off level footed. It is a big change. But I feel my crossovers are smoother and even with whipping, I know i dont trip over my stops (i had the large bell ones).
I suggest for Derby girls to skate with the small toe stops. They give you the extra little pushes that you need to help spritnt at times. But if you want, try it without them, you just have to learn to "cut" into the track more with your inside wheels.
Anyway, that is all for now. We are skating with C'ville this weekend for a general practice, should be a great time! Plus the car wash on the in the morning (the 13th) need to raise some funds! So if you are reading stop by and see us at Function4 Sports on Rte 33. I'll be hanging out and chatting AND filling buckets as the girls wash the cars!
Troch
Director of Training for RockTownRollers
Friday, August 29, 2008
Derby Talk: Aug 27
Tuesday Practice:
We had a great turnout at Tuesday's practice. A few new drills were introduced to help endurance and skills. Thom reminded everyone about the 45 degree stance we should be skating in AT ALL TIMES. One new drill is 10 20 30 of sprint, and then hold the 45 degree stance. Each set is equal time; i.e. 10 second sprint, 10 second hold. This works the skating muscles needed to improve endurance and skills. The second new drill was weaving to improve your passing and balance abilities. Everyone skates in a line while the last person weaves through everyone 'till they reach the front. Basic skills are still needed no matter what skill level you are at. We practiced falls, hops, stance, weaves, blocking, and group skating. Some members are meeting tonight (Wednesday) at the Dodger at 6:30 to discuss the new layout of this organization. Others who can't make it will be meeting at Aprils on Friday to do the same. The goal is to have a new organization layout along with the start of a Standards guideline by next week.
Dates to remember:
September 13th – Car wash fund raiser. Info via email/text to followSeptember 14th – Charlottesville Derby Dames will be practicing with us.
September 20th – Sock hop at the Dodger. Brook will be the main contact for this event
Commotion by the Ocean Review:
As you all know Thom, Janna, Paressa, Brook, Kevin, and I took a journey to Virginia Beach to participate in Commotion by the Ocean. Between the 6 of us we learned a lot, represented the TEAM, and made a lot of great contacts. Below is a small review of what we learned and experienced.
Please note:
the following is just that, what we learned and experienced. Not necessarily what anyone believes should be done. The first part of the morning was spent watching scrimmages that P participated in.
She kicked ass by getting out there and representing the TEAM. We were able to observe other TEAMs, their tactics, and skills. It was easy to see who was a TEAM player and who played for themselves. This made us realize how important it is for everyone to play as a TEAM, watch each other's back, and help each other improve. It's not how well you skate; it's how well your TEAM skates and how well you skate with your TEAM.
To close the conference there was a scrimmage between random players chosen out of a hat. Sure enough, P was picked to kick ass! She had some good hits and took a good fall. The bout was great to watch as the crowd grew larger to watch the main event; Dominion vs. Dairy Land. It was a fast paced, hard hitting bout that everyone could learn from.
Bi Laws and Standards:
Multiple TEAMs stressed that we should start writing our bi laws now (attendance, expectations, etc...). We can change and add policies as we go, but to start and have one to hand out to fresh meat is always good. Once we feel comfortable with one, we can then review it on a yearly basis.
One TEAM said new policies would start at the beginning of the month to make it easier on everyone. We want to bring fresh meet to the TEAM; HOWEVER, providing standards will eliminate people who aren't as serious as we need them to be. People can get burned out very easily. If we work on the structure now, there is a less chance that will happen in the future. The Bi Laws are intended to go hand in hand with the skills assessment.
Information Packets:
I will be working on the Rock town Rollers packet to provide for sponsors, fresh meet, vendors, etc... This will include our history, our mission statement (which we need to build), bios of each player, our organization structure, etc... To build the Bios, I will hand out a questionnaire for everyone to complete. After the Bio is complete, I will ask you to review for approval. Committees: Every TEAM member must be on at least one committee. A few TEAMs suggested we start with about 4-5 committees with one lead board member and however many support members for each committee. This way everyone is starting out focusing on one committee at a time. The more players we get, the more we can spread. There isn't one person with everything on their shoulders, making all decisions. Meetings are held monthly to discuss needs, wants, progress, etc… Committee examples Dominion used:
Coaching and ReffsAdministration and FinancingMarketing and SponsorshipVolunteer and Fundraising Coaching Workshops:
The Coaching workshop went over practice drills, skill assessments, bouts, TEAM standards, etc. After speaking with Thom, it seemed he was able to learn an overwhelming world of knowledge. As you saw last night, we will be adding a few more drills to work on endurance and try to spice things up for everyone. It is VERY important we still work on skill assessment. TEAMs, who have been together for years, still practice their skill assessments. And yes, they made the comments, "No matter how boring it is or how repetitious it is, you have to do it. The best skaters skate as a TEAM and practice the fundamentals."
Track Set Up:
Thom and Kevin found out a killer way to set up the track that takes ½ the time. Other than the tricks of the trade, they were up to speed with what was being reviewed. Sponsorship Workshop:It was amazing to hear how much donations these TEAMs received; money, time, swag (free stuff). The sponsorship workshop stated when people donate time (like a gym membership) they are still writing that off.
We have to know how much people are claiming to donate and make sure we are donating to counter act for taxes. Dominion said they didn't realize that and had to owe money at the end of the year. Anything we are getting for free/discounted (gear, money, time, etc...) is a write off. We have to keep track of what's going in and going out. If you are not on a committee, it is very important NOT to make any decisions without speaking to the board member.
Being a WFTDA Class A or B TEAM:Class B TEAM is a 6 month "trial period" to assure you are committed to what is needed to be a part of the WFTDA. Once you pass the trial period, you are then a Class A TEAM. This is going to take us a long time to achieve so I hope no one has their dreams set on in now.
This is an extremely long process that requires the following (summary form): Being a know TEAM to other WFTDA TEAMs (practicing, playing, chilling, getting to know the TEAM)3 letters of recommendation from WFTDA TEAMs (the above requirement follows with this letter)Following their code of conductCommitting 2-3 people as a WFTDA committeePlaying at least 2 bouts per season with WFTDA TEAMs in your regionFilling out ALL the paperwork… Needless to say, we need to make sure we keep a good code of conduct with each other and other TEAMs to achieve this goal.
Comments and Contacts:Each TEAM I spoke with is more than willing to share their experience. If you have questions for your committee, look their info up on line and contact them. Everyone has a different situation and is more than willing to help. The PA TEAM has about 40 active skaters plus staff! AND they are about to purchase their own venue!!!! They are for real serious and a kick ass TEAM!
Charlottesville Derby Dames were EXCITED to meet us and are ecstatic to practice with us on September 14th. They do not have a rink to practice at and now only have 7-8 players. Star City Roller Girls in Roanoke, VA are a bit more serious. They practice 3X per week and would love for us to visit and/or practice.
Richmond has opened their arms to whatever help they can provide.
Closing Statement:
Everyone is here for their own reasons but it wouldn't be possible without the TEAM. Everyone is improving greatly in different ways, at different speeds. It's easy to forget you were once slow, clumsy, and lacked skills you have now. We have to stay together as a TEAM, supporting each other and helping each other stride to success. When someone improves, cheer them on. When someone falls, cheer them on. If you have a suggestion, politely share it.
CONSTRUSTIVE criticism is truly needed for everyone at ever skating level. I've heard a few people say this is a great experience and an awesome sport. We can succeed to higher levels as long as we stick together as a TEAM. I'm truly honored to be a part of this TEAM because not everyone has the time or ability to do so.
Everyone is very different in their own ways; let that be known that is what makes a great diverse TEAM. Where one person lacks, the other person is strong. WE as a TEAM can't go any further without each other. Stay strong and stay positive!
We had a great turnout at Tuesday's practice. A few new drills were introduced to help endurance and skills. Thom reminded everyone about the 45 degree stance we should be skating in AT ALL TIMES. One new drill is 10 20 30 of sprint, and then hold the 45 degree stance. Each set is equal time; i.e. 10 second sprint, 10 second hold. This works the skating muscles needed to improve endurance and skills. The second new drill was weaving to improve your passing and balance abilities. Everyone skates in a line while the last person weaves through everyone 'till they reach the front. Basic skills are still needed no matter what skill level you are at. We practiced falls, hops, stance, weaves, blocking, and group skating. Some members are meeting tonight (Wednesday) at the Dodger at 6:30 to discuss the new layout of this organization. Others who can't make it will be meeting at Aprils on Friday to do the same. The goal is to have a new organization layout along with the start of a Standards guideline by next week.
Dates to remember:
September 13th – Car wash fund raiser. Info via email/text to followSeptember 14th – Charlottesville Derby Dames will be practicing with us.
September 20th – Sock hop at the Dodger. Brook will be the main contact for this event
Commotion by the Ocean Review:
As you all know Thom, Janna, Paressa, Brook, Kevin, and I took a journey to Virginia Beach to participate in Commotion by the Ocean. Between the 6 of us we learned a lot, represented the TEAM, and made a lot of great contacts. Below is a small review of what we learned and experienced.
Please note:
the following is just that, what we learned and experienced. Not necessarily what anyone believes should be done. The first part of the morning was spent watching scrimmages that P participated in.
She kicked ass by getting out there and representing the TEAM. We were able to observe other TEAMs, their tactics, and skills. It was easy to see who was a TEAM player and who played for themselves. This made us realize how important it is for everyone to play as a TEAM, watch each other's back, and help each other improve. It's not how well you skate; it's how well your TEAM skates and how well you skate with your TEAM.
To close the conference there was a scrimmage between random players chosen out of a hat. Sure enough, P was picked to kick ass! She had some good hits and took a good fall. The bout was great to watch as the crowd grew larger to watch the main event; Dominion vs. Dairy Land. It was a fast paced, hard hitting bout that everyone could learn from.
Bi Laws and Standards:
Multiple TEAMs stressed that we should start writing our bi laws now (attendance, expectations, etc...). We can change and add policies as we go, but to start and have one to hand out to fresh meat is always good. Once we feel comfortable with one, we can then review it on a yearly basis.
One TEAM said new policies would start at the beginning of the month to make it easier on everyone. We want to bring fresh meet to the TEAM; HOWEVER, providing standards will eliminate people who aren't as serious as we need them to be. People can get burned out very easily. If we work on the structure now, there is a less chance that will happen in the future. The Bi Laws are intended to go hand in hand with the skills assessment.
Information Packets:
I will be working on the Rock town Rollers packet to provide for sponsors, fresh meet, vendors, etc... This will include our history, our mission statement (which we need to build), bios of each player, our organization structure, etc... To build the Bios, I will hand out a questionnaire for everyone to complete. After the Bio is complete, I will ask you to review for approval. Committees: Every TEAM member must be on at least one committee. A few TEAMs suggested we start with about 4-5 committees with one lead board member and however many support members for each committee. This way everyone is starting out focusing on one committee at a time. The more players we get, the more we can spread. There isn't one person with everything on their shoulders, making all decisions. Meetings are held monthly to discuss needs, wants, progress, etc… Committee examples Dominion used:
Coaching and ReffsAdministration and FinancingMarketing and SponsorshipVolunteer and Fundraising Coaching Workshops:
The Coaching workshop went over practice drills, skill assessments, bouts, TEAM standards, etc. After speaking with Thom, it seemed he was able to learn an overwhelming world of knowledge. As you saw last night, we will be adding a few more drills to work on endurance and try to spice things up for everyone. It is VERY important we still work on skill assessment. TEAMs, who have been together for years, still practice their skill assessments. And yes, they made the comments, "No matter how boring it is or how repetitious it is, you have to do it. The best skaters skate as a TEAM and practice the fundamentals."
Track Set Up:
Thom and Kevin found out a killer way to set up the track that takes ½ the time. Other than the tricks of the trade, they were up to speed with what was being reviewed. Sponsorship Workshop:It was amazing to hear how much donations these TEAMs received; money, time, swag (free stuff). The sponsorship workshop stated when people donate time (like a gym membership) they are still writing that off.
We have to know how much people are claiming to donate and make sure we are donating to counter act for taxes. Dominion said they didn't realize that and had to owe money at the end of the year. Anything we are getting for free/discounted (gear, money, time, etc...) is a write off. We have to keep track of what's going in and going out. If you are not on a committee, it is very important NOT to make any decisions without speaking to the board member.
Being a WFTDA Class A or B TEAM:Class B TEAM is a 6 month "trial period" to assure you are committed to what is needed to be a part of the WFTDA. Once you pass the trial period, you are then a Class A TEAM. This is going to take us a long time to achieve so I hope no one has their dreams set on in now.
This is an extremely long process that requires the following (summary form): Being a know TEAM to other WFTDA TEAMs (practicing, playing, chilling, getting to know the TEAM)3 letters of recommendation from WFTDA TEAMs (the above requirement follows with this letter)Following their code of conductCommitting 2-3 people as a WFTDA committeePlaying at least 2 bouts per season with WFTDA TEAMs in your regionFilling out ALL the paperwork… Needless to say, we need to make sure we keep a good code of conduct with each other and other TEAMs to achieve this goal.
Comments and Contacts:Each TEAM I spoke with is more than willing to share their experience. If you have questions for your committee, look their info up on line and contact them. Everyone has a different situation and is more than willing to help. The PA TEAM has about 40 active skaters plus staff! AND they are about to purchase their own venue!!!! They are for real serious and a kick ass TEAM!
Charlottesville Derby Dames were EXCITED to meet us and are ecstatic to practice with us on September 14th. They do not have a rink to practice at and now only have 7-8 players. Star City Roller Girls in Roanoke, VA are a bit more serious. They practice 3X per week and would love for us to visit and/or practice.
Richmond has opened their arms to whatever help they can provide.
Closing Statement:
Everyone is here for their own reasons but it wouldn't be possible without the TEAM. Everyone is improving greatly in different ways, at different speeds. It's easy to forget you were once slow, clumsy, and lacked skills you have now. We have to stay together as a TEAM, supporting each other and helping each other stride to success. When someone improves, cheer them on. When someone falls, cheer them on. If you have a suggestion, politely share it.
CONSTRUSTIVE criticism is truly needed for everyone at ever skating level. I've heard a few people say this is a great experience and an awesome sport. We can succeed to higher levels as long as we stick together as a TEAM. I'm truly honored to be a part of this TEAM because not everyone has the time or ability to do so.
Everyone is very different in their own ways; let that be known that is what makes a great diverse TEAM. Where one person lacks, the other person is strong. WE as a TEAM can't go any further without each other. Stay strong and stay positive!
Derby Talk from Aug 11
Sunday's Review:
Hello Everybody!
We worked on the 1st half of the skill assessment, endurance, and ref signals.
The floors are being sanded on a weekly basis. This gives it time to breath and expand as necessary. Once they feel they have done the best they can, they will coat the floor. The owners stated it would be about a month before that happens. It is all ready a lot nicer than before.
Coaches:
Paressa decided to stick with her passion of skating and step down to assistant coach with Janna. Thom is now our coach. We all know P is a great skater who's skills will help us all improve individually and as a team.
Equipment:
The new owners offered to order equipment for us at a cheaper price. Please direct all orders to April. She is in the process of getting the final details as to what is needed; i.e. Payment due, minimum quantity to order, etc. April would like to place an order this week, so please e-mail her what exactly you need.
New Schedule:
Mandatory practice will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30pm to 9:30pm at Funky's Skate Center in the 'burg. It is very important everyone attends Tuesday practice to improve as a team.
Once Bingo starts, we will no longer have Sunday evenings available.
With that being said...
Until we are able to schedule a second set practice, you have the following options to choose from:
Open skate is available in WOODSTOCK for:Wednesday night 6 – 9pm
Open skate is available in HARRISONBURG for the following times:
Friday 7:30 – 11:00pm $6
Saturday 1:00 – 4:00pm $5 including skates
Sunday 12:00 – 3pm $5 or $12 / Up to 5 Family Members, Skates included
A second practice of choice is mandatory to work on your skill assessment. Please review what would work best for you to discuss who can make what 2nd practice. The goal would be to work on skills with other gals for positive feedback and assistance on whips, pushes, etc... A sign up sheet will be provided with either an individual who will be able to commit to a specific day or the skating rink (further details to follow).
FINAL NOTE:
As we all know, this is a working process that is finally coming together. We all have to continue working together to keep the progress moving forward. Support each other and push each other as a team to help improve on and off the court. And as always, keep kicking ass!
Past Post by the Negotiator
Hello Everybody!
We worked on the 1st half of the skill assessment, endurance, and ref signals.
The floors are being sanded on a weekly basis. This gives it time to breath and expand as necessary. Once they feel they have done the best they can, they will coat the floor. The owners stated it would be about a month before that happens. It is all ready a lot nicer than before.
Coaches:
Paressa decided to stick with her passion of skating and step down to assistant coach with Janna. Thom is now our coach. We all know P is a great skater who's skills will help us all improve individually and as a team.
Equipment:
The new owners offered to order equipment for us at a cheaper price. Please direct all orders to April. She is in the process of getting the final details as to what is needed; i.e. Payment due, minimum quantity to order, etc. April would like to place an order this week, so please e-mail her what exactly you need.
New Schedule:
Mandatory practice will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30pm to 9:30pm at Funky's Skate Center in the 'burg. It is very important everyone attends Tuesday practice to improve as a team.
Once Bingo starts, we will no longer have Sunday evenings available.
With that being said...
Until we are able to schedule a second set practice, you have the following options to choose from:
Open skate is available in WOODSTOCK for:Wednesday night 6 – 9pm
Open skate is available in HARRISONBURG for the following times:
Friday 7:30 – 11:00pm $6
Saturday 1:00 – 4:00pm $5 including skates
Sunday 12:00 – 3pm $5 or $12 / Up to 5 Family Members, Skates included
A second practice of choice is mandatory to work on your skill assessment. Please review what would work best for you to discuss who can make what 2nd practice. The goal would be to work on skills with other gals for positive feedback and assistance on whips, pushes, etc... A sign up sheet will be provided with either an individual who will be able to commit to a specific day or the skating rink (further details to follow).
FINAL NOTE:
As we all know, this is a working process that is finally coming together. We all have to continue working together to keep the progress moving forward. Support each other and push each other as a team to help improve on and off the court. And as always, keep kicking ass!
Past Post by the Negotiator
In the Beginning
We finally brought Roller Derby to Harrisonburg, VA.
Without going in to great depth of our history and what not right now, the main thing we would like to do with this blog is share with you all what we are doing. The Negoiator, ouot Director of Sponsorships, write a "Derby Talk" every week or so to share with every one on the team what has happened and what is up coming. Between her and I, well be posting that to share with you, and other things as they pop up.
We will in the future post how we started (for people that missed that article in the Daily Newsrecord). We'll post general roller derby news and events. And pretty much anything we do.
Hope we can make this enjoyable for folks and informative as well for those that like to stay up to date with what the RockTownRollers Derby Girls are up to!
Again, we always like to thanks everyone that has helped us along the way, we still have a ways to go yet.
Thanks and take care!
Troch
Head Coach & Director of Training
Without going in to great depth of our history and what not right now, the main thing we would like to do with this blog is share with you all what we are doing. The Negoiator, ouot Director of Sponsorships, write a "Derby Talk" every week or so to share with every one on the team what has happened and what is up coming. Between her and I, well be posting that to share with you, and other things as they pop up.
We will in the future post how we started (for people that missed that article in the Daily Newsrecord). We'll post general roller derby news and events. And pretty much anything we do.
Hope we can make this enjoyable for folks and informative as well for those that like to stay up to date with what the RockTownRollers Derby Girls are up to!
Again, we always like to thanks everyone that has helped us along the way, we still have a ways to go yet.
Thanks and take care!
Troch
Head Coach & Director of Training
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