So after announcing that I intend to post more often I haven't posted for more than a month. I wasn't sure what had happened to inspire such apathy but then I looked at the date of my last post: 25 March. Why is this important? Well I think I have figured out what has happened, where my mind has been this past month.
You see, on the 28th of March, I went to The Grudgemaker, Richter City Roller Derby's first ever bout. I wasn't sure what to expect. A friend of mine in Auckland plays, and I had been interested for a while, but not interested enough to do anything about it. Well, I went (and dragged along my boyfriend and a few friends). And I fell in love. Watch the footage of the bout and you might see why:
Richter City Roller Derby from vibol moeung on Vimeo.
The next day I emailed the league and pretty much since then Roller Derby has been what has been occupying my mind.
Now, I am the first to admit that at this point I am pretty much shit at rollerskating. That said, a month ago, I had never rollerskated at all. What I lack in skill I surely make up for in enthusiasm. My friends and family are totally sick of me talking about it. My flatmates are bemused by my interesting hot-pants and tights outfits in the cold weather. But i'm hooked.
It has been really gratifying to learn something new. I teach dance (ballet and tap), and have done for nearly 8 years, so it is really interesting to suddenly be the student, rather than the teacher. To find something challenging again. To have to push myself, though pain and fear. Having never played contact sport before i'm finding being allowed to be physically agressive both exciting and daunting.
I'm also (and i'm aware this makes me sound a bit lame) really stoked to be meeting new people. At 25, working full time, opportunities to make new friends are limited, especially when compared to being at university. The ladies I have met so far have been SO lovely, friendly and encouraging. And smart. Crazy smart.
In the next few months I will post again about my progress (hopefully you don't find it too tedious!). If you want to know more about Richter City Roller Derby, or you want to join up (or if you want to sponsor us!) click here. For the history of roller derby, check out the wikipedia entry here.
Finally, here are some very average photos I took at the bout:
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