In this youth roller derby league, any kid can lace up and hit hard

Block. Jam. Repeat.
Listen to competitive jammer sisters Mads and Elizabeatin’ Tragedy struggle to find balance between kindness and competition, or pivot-player Wee Beastie describe why she drives six hours just to play. From practice to tournament, host Jazmin Aguilera brings you inside an inclusive roller derby bootcamp where every kid – no matter their background, body type, or skill level – can lace up, roll out, and find their place on the track.

Inside a Saugus, Massachusetts roller skating rink the sound of roller skates skidding and bodies slamming is overwhelming. This neon space-themed rink becomes a fierce training ground. Here, under the revolving twinkle of the disco ball, the New England Junior Roller Derby League holds its weekly practice. Skaters come from far and wide to be a part of this youth league.

“I think I became a lot more sure of myself when I started playing because I got a handle on who I am instead of trying to be like everyone else.” Shailagh Heneghan ‘Slay-La’

“Not only is it an outlet, it's also a distraction from the world. And it's just, like, a safe space to come to.” Genevieve Snell ‘GoldiBlocks’

Turns out, a violent, dangerous sport like roller derby is a prime environment for emotional growth while also being fun to play. Somehow the combination of self-policing and emphasis on emotional regulation keeps roller derby an inclusive and welcoming environment, skaters say. And it’s precisely because of that commitment that skaters can explore their inner fierceness and individuality. And isn’t that for everyone?

TO LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, OR ANOTHER AUDIO PLATFORM CLICK HERE: https://pod.link/1767012898

00:00 Intro
02:57 Title Card
03:35 Roller Derby Rules
06:04 Jammer Madison “Mads” Scott
09:45 Coach Risky Bismuth
11:59 Derby Names
15:42 Derby Culture
26:37 Derby Community
28:37 Credits

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