The staying power of Roller Derby

Obviously not an existing Roller Derby fan, "uncoached " writes

Roller Derby isn’t what it can be.  Yes it’s fun to watch women knock each other around but A. The women aren’t attractive enough and B. There’s no incentive to watch them.

Oh this is great! Obviously the writer hasn't done his research in to what Roller Derby *has* been, given crowd pleasing, camera friendly, athletically attractive "celebrity" types. Hello Raquel Welch!  Roller Derby has drawn large crowds and captivated audiences on TV (most of you remember your dad watching, no doubt). Ultimately, these past incarnations of derby didn't last.

Following this guy's thought, using celebrity would get more people interested in watching...which would lead to what? More money? For whom? WFTDA  leagues are skater owned or non-profit groups. The money we make (if we make any) goes back to the sport and the skaters - not a tv studio, manager or corporation. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to  tumble with Alyssa Milano, but that'd be for my benefit, not yours! If we can make enough to cover the cost of a bout, we've done well.

At the end of the day, we don't spend these hours practicing and sacrificing our non-derby lives to make money, or to attract larger audiences. I couldn't capture all of the reasons I've heard from women who have dedicated their lives to this sport. Community, entertainment, athleticism, competition, camaraderie and wicked after-parties.  But maybe *this* is the recipe for a Roller Derby that lasts longer than the latest hairstyle. That's our incentive to keep playing. I'll let you comment on your incentive to watch!

Comments

[Anil Dash]

I feel Alyssa Milano's name should link to her MT-powered baseball blog. :) http://alyssa.mlblogs.com/