A Time of Thanks

We just left Thanksgiving for the Christmas rush, and we also recently took time at our end of the year party to thank everyone who participated in HRD. This has been a great year with our first ever trip to nationals, and we are excited about the future. Here is a list of the awards given out and of everyone who participated in the 2009 season. Thanks to everyone who took part!


Derby Brothers

1. Bla$pheny

2. Mr. Booty

3. Byrdman

4. Cary Porter

5. Chappy Davis

6. Conn

7. Dewitt Eton

8. Mr. Floorplay

9. Jack Camancho

10. Mr. Jeckyll

11. John Davis

12. John Wade

13. Johnny Diablo

14. Josh Balakonis

15. Kris Rosenkoetter

16. Maryssa Maize

17. Ozzy Zion

18. Poppa Morphine

19. Sir Loin

20. Special K

21. Steve Novotny

Referees

1. Ajax

2. Ally Basher

3. Asthmatika

4. Big Bad Voodoo Dolly

5. Boots Electric

6. Mr. Chainsaw

7. Chewcifer

8. Chicken

9. Mr. Clean

10. Head Referee: Corbin Cojones

11. Juana Destroya

12. Katie KO

13. Madame M

14. Mr. Knockahoe

15. Natalie Zelt

16. Needs Derekshun

17. THE PROSECUTOR

18. Randy Pants

19. Rick Jamz

20. Roadkill

21. Rushing Cleavage

22. SOB

23. Sweetie Todd

24. Wreckx-N-Effect

Volunteers

1. Annheuser Butch

2. Beth Threat

3. Beverly Kills

4. Bill Shirley

5. Bunny B Trouble

6. Captain Jack Sorrow

7. Chad Cornelius

8. Charles

9. Chip Queso

10. The Colonel

11. Crispix

12. Danny Nguyen

13. Debbie Fuentes

14. Dirty Sanchez

15. Double Treble

16. Doug Seabourne

17. Elle McFierce

18. Mr. Fearest

19. George Hasbrouck

20. Honey Man

21. H.O.T. Rink Sweeper

22. Mr. Hot Wad

23. Jay Lee

24. John McKay

25. Judo Bryan

26. Kane-D-Man

27. Kelly Mora

28. Kerry McClain

29. Lisa Williams

30. Madame M

31. MakoOffOnYou

32. Mama Mistilla

33. Mama Morphine

34. Matt Glover

35. Ozzy Zion

36. The Mangler Mario Marteniz

37. Mr. Platz

38. Phil Arnold

39. Rev. Bryan

40. Richard McCullough

41. Sir Jym

42. Spanky

43. Stig Daniels

44. Tawdry Hepburn

45. Tim the Techman

46. Tony Sodaro

47. UV Vixen

48. Veronika Venom

49. Wacky Jackie

50. Mr. Who

51. Will Oxley

Sponsors

1. 2 Be Free Bonding

2. 396 Studios

3. Bar Stool Magazine

4. Big John's Ice House

5. Bud Light

6. Chances

7. Dairy Ashford Roller Rink

8. ESPN 97.5 The Ticket

9. Kalibrate

10. Kicks Indoor

11. MardiGras Grill

12. Montrose Skate Shop

13. Red Lion Pub

14. Roller Girl Skates.com

15. SkateCourt

16. Stan and Lou

17. Wicked Skate Wear

Heads of Committees
1. AnnHeuser Butch: Head of Training

2. BabyFace Assassin: Head of Charity

3. Brand-Aid: Ticket Mistress

4. Carmen Geddit: Interleague Liason

5. Chainsaw Chick: Head of Recruiting and New Girls

6. DeMentia: Head of Art

7. Goldie BloXX: Head of Halftime and Afterparty

8. HellaBama: LeagueSecretary

9. Jekyll and Heidi: Web Mistress

10. Madame M: Rink Mom

11. Princess Prozac: Head of Production

12. Punitive Damage: Head of Legal

13. Rebel Ann : Head of Volunteers

14. Savage Rose: Head of Fundraising/Events/Band Booking

15. Scarlet O'Hurtya: Head of Media / Press / Marketing / PR

16. Sinister Sista: Head of Sponsorship and Charity

17. Starr Doom: Head of Fundraising/Events/Band Booking

18. THE PROSECUTOR: Head of Legal and Head of Training

19. Veronika Venom: Head of Merchandise and Head of Finance



Team Machete Bettie

1. Most Inspirational Bettie - Mary Choppins
2. Best Attitude Bettie - Bunny B. Trouble
3. Most Valuable Bettie - Elbow Grease and Jersey Girrrl

Bettie Skaters

1. Alexandra Vasquez

2. Anachronism

3. Beverly Kills

4. Blitz

5. Bombadee

6. CinnaBomb

7. CoCo Chanel

8. Demisha Manning

9. Domin8TRIX

10. Dutch Destroyer

11. Glam Reaper

12. Grrrl Friday

13. Janette Mereno

14. Jessica Jasso

15. Jessie Jams

16. Jorge Gonzalez

17. Kasey Bryan

18. Kathy Elliot

19. Katie Acosta

20. Kim Karsmashuin

21. Lipstick Assassin

22. Luna Styx

23. Coach - Madame M

24. Mary Choppins

25. Mechell Brown

26. Mommy Fearest

27. Nightmare on Em St

28. Pheonix Pistolero

29. Private BeenJammin

30. Scar Wars

31. Spite 'n Malice

32. Sweet Commotion

33. Sweetie Todd

34. Toni Smasheries

35. Wicked Sweet

36. Wreckx-N-Effect

Team Burlesque Brawlers

1. Best Blocker - Starr Doom
2. Best Pivot - Sinister Sista
3. Best Jammer- Speedo
4. MVP - Speedo
5. Rest of the Brawlers-

1. Brat Poison

2. Bushwacker

3. Chainsaw Chick

4. Claudia Van Damage

5. Creeping Beauty

6. Major Mayhem

7. Princess Prozac

8. Private BeenJammin

9. Savage Rose

10. Scar Wars

11. Tempestua

12. WreckHell Welch

Team Psych Ward Sirens

1. Best Blocker - Panty Raider
2. Best Pivot - Carmen Geddit
3. Best Jammer - DeMentia
4. MVP - Mistilla the Killa
5. Rest of the Sirens-
1. Brand-Aid
2. Candy Codeine
3. Copperhead
4. Domin8TRIX
5. Hot Rod Bettie
6. Ivana B Sedated
7. Jekyll and Heidi
8. Punitive Damage
9. Raven Knockahoe
10. Scarlet O'Hurtya
11. Sick Nick
12. Tex Offender

Team Bayou City Bosses

1. Best Blocker- Co-Captain Nawty Dread Knocks
2. Best Pivot - Goldie BloXX
3. Best Jammer - Death by Chocolate
4. MVP - Death by Chocolate
5. Rest of the Bosses-

1. BabyFace Assassin
2. Becky Booty
3. Blindside
4. Bo Bitchuary
5. Dailey Beatings
6. HellaBama
7. Holla Pain~Yo
8. KiKi Mojo
9. Legzibitionist
10. Miss Lead
11. Rebel Ann
12. Tamityville Horror



Team HaRD Knocks

1. Best Blocker- Miss Lead
2. Best Pivot - Becky Booty
3. Best Jammer - Death by Chocolate
4. MVP – Death by Chocolate
5. Rest of the HaRD Knocks-

1. Brand-Aid

2. Carmen Geddit

3. Chainsaw Chick

4. DeMentia

5. Goldie BloXX

6. Jekyll and Heidi

7. Mistilla the Killa

8. Nawty Dread Knocks

9. Panty Raider

10. Rebel Ann

11. Savage Rose

12. Sinister Sista

13. Speedo

14. Starr Doom

15. Tex Offender

16. THE PROSECUTOR

17. WreckHell Welch

18. Bench Support: Spanky

19. Bench Support: Chicken

HRD Fun Awards

1. Miss Congeniality Award: Our favorite rollergirl with a personality plus - KiKi Mojo
2. The TaTa Award: The rollergirl with the best rack - WreckHell Welch
3. After School Special Award: Our favorite rollergirl mom - KiKi Mojo
4. Purple Heart Award: Our favorite injured rollergirl- Panty Raider
5. Flair Award: Best Dressed Rollergirl - Mistilla the Killa
6. The Comeback Kid Award: Our favorite rollergirl coming back from an injury - DeMentia
7. Wash Your Mouth Out Award: Best Trash Talker on the Track - Death by Chocolate
8. Best High Five Award: Our favorite rollergirl with the most enthusiastic Derby Spirit - Carmen Geddit
9. Smarty Pants Award: Our favorite smart-ass rollergirl - Sick Nick
10. Best HRD Practice Attendance - Blindside & Copperhead (TIE)
11. Best TT Practice Attendance - DeMentia
12. Best Event Attendance - Scarlet O'Hurtya

HRD Awards
1. Rookie of the Year - Speedo
2. Best Referee - Corbin
3. Most Improved Skater - Rebel Ann
4. MVP of HRD - Death by Chocolate

December Tryouts!

Have you always wanted to skate with Houston Roller Derby? Now is your chance! Houston Roller Derby has two upcoming tryout dates at the Dairy Ashford Roller Rink--Sunday, December 6 at 6:30pm and Sunday, January 10 at 10am.

We are looking for solid skaters who are ready to give their all for Houston Roller Derby, even if you don't have lots of derby-specific experience. The tryouts will last for two hours and will include skating drills, time trials, and meeting with the captains. Afterwards, there will be a new girl social with great food at Big John's Ice House at the corner of Dairy Ashford and Briar Forest, where you'll get to mix and mingle with derby girls. You must be 18 years old to try out. A list of frequently asked questions can be at the bottom of this email, and please let me know if you have any other questions!

Please RSVP to recruitment@houstonrollerderby if you will be attending the December 6 tryouts. The cost is $25, which includes the rink fees and the new girl social. You will need skates, pads (elbow, knee, and wrist) and a helmet. You may also want a mouthguard, which can be found very cheaply at Academy or Walmart. If you do not have pads, helmet, or skates, please let me know if you will need these and we will do our best to have some for you to use. PLEASE arrive around 30 minutes before the tryout time so we can have you fill out paperwork.

We would love to have you out! Again, please email me if you plan to try out on December 6, or if you have questions about tryouts or Houston Roller Derby. There will be one Recreational League tomorrow, December 1st at Dairy Ashford Roller Rink at 7:15pm if you want to get some time on skates this week. Thanks and hope to see you there!



Tryout FAQs


Who is Houston Roller Derby?

Houston Roller Derby is a diverse group of women in and around Houston who share a common love for derby. We are a member of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) and play all-female roller derby with quad skates on a flat track. Our league consists of three home teams and one travel team, which competes nationally.



What do I need to have with me to tryouts?

Please bring the $25 tryout fee, comfy athletic clothes, all the necessary equipment, and a great attitude. For equipment, you will need quad skates (not in-lines); knee, elbow, and wrist pads; a mouth guard; and a helmet. If you do not have all the necessary equipment, please let us know ahead of time. You may be able to rent rink skates and borrow pads or helmets if there are enough.



What is the minimum age to try out? What is the maximum age?

You must be 18 years old to join Houston Roller Derby. There is no maximum age.



If I make the league, what will the requirements be?

You will be required to make at least 70% attendance of three practices a week, cover your monthly skater dues (approximately $50 per month), and purchase WFTDA insurance ($40 a year). Each skater must also participate in league activities such as fundraisers and league meetings, and must be an active member of a committee.



What percentage of girls trying out will make the league?

There is no percentage. We will take as many girls as we feel meet the requirements and have the right attitude to skate with Houston Roller Derby. Some of our current skaters have tried out multiple times before making it. If you don’t make the league your first time, don’t give up! Work on your skills and come back to show us your commitment to derby.



What will be tested at tryouts?

We assume that most new girls will not come in with perfected derby skills. We want girls who have solid skating ability and the potential to grow. To get an idea of the minimum skills that we are looking for, click this link:



http://www.wftda.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/appendix_a___wftda_minimum_skill_requirements.pdf



Another important factor we will be looking for is attitude. We want to see skaters who have heart, commitment, and the ability to take instruction well.

And Like That...

...it's over. After a 239-46 loss to the Rocky Mountain, Houston's HaRD Knocks has finished its season. It's been a historic year for Houston, and we are so proud of our HaRD Knocks for earning this spot at Nationals for the first time.

The score may look like a blowout, but Houston returned from halftime to continue an uphill fight. Speed-O appeared to grow even faster in the second half, but even scoring 41 points couldn't bring us back. If you want to read a recap or watch the archived game, click here.

Congrats, HaRD Knocks on a fantastic season and thanks fans for all your support!

Nationals! Right...NOW!

If you want to watch Houston HaRD Knocks take on the Rocky Mountain Roller Girls in our first game at Nationals in Philly, go to www.derbynewsnetwork.com! The game was supposed to start at 4:15, but they're still in warm-ups right now. Go HaRD Knocks!

Friends and Family Day!

Please come out and see us at the Dairy Ashford Roller Rink tomorrow, October 25 from 6:30-9pm for an exhibition bout and fundraiser to help send the Houston HaRD Knocks to Nationals in Philly! BYOB if you're over 21.

Nationals, Watch Out for HaRD Knocks!

We're going to nationals! Houston's HaRD Knocks beat out Dallas today 113 to 101 and secured a spot in Philly for the WFTDA National Tournament. This is huge for Houston, and we are so proud of our travel team!

Join us for a congratulatory celebration Monday September 28th at Montrose Skate Shop (3202 White Oak Dr ) at 7pm. We will welcome back our girls, bring signs and cheer the Travel Team as we parade them up and down 6th Street. Come on out and show our ladies some love!

Semi-Finals Starting...NOW!

Derby News Network is broadcasting the semi-final bout between the Houston HaRD Knocks and Kansas City Rollergirls starting in just a moment (5pm CST). We need to win one more game to make it to Nationals. If we win here, we fight for the top spot or the second spot. If we lose to Kansas, we can still beat a team tomorrow, coming in third and making it to Nationals. This has been a long, hard-fought season, and HRD needs your support. Go watch now!

HaRD Knocks Advances!

Houston's HaRD Knocks beat No Coast (Nebraska) today 183-45. Congrats, guys! Our travel team now advances to the semi-finals and will be playing tomorrow. Please keep checking in or on Derby News Network for updates and live coverage of the bouts!

Houston v. No Coast

Right this very second, Houston's HaRD Knocks is beating No Coast 94-14 in the Southern Fried Smackdown. It's half-time as I write, but if you want to watch the rest of the bout, click here. Keep checking www.derbynewsnetwork.com this weekend for more live bout casts.

Updates and Whip It Tomorrow!

It's officially the off-season for Houston Roller Derby's home teams, but there is still a lot going on! Our own travel team, the Houston HaRD Knocks will be playing this weekend in the Southern Fried Smackdown in Atlanta, hoping to secure a place in the national championship. I'll try to link to live feeds on the Derby News Network this weekend. We also have some fundraisers and an exhibition game coming up, plus three more tryout dates before next season. See? We're actually busy.

But the big news for the moment is that Drew Barrymore's movie Whip It comes out soon and very soon! If you have not heard the buzz about this movie, it stars Ellen Page as a Texas gal who finds her way into roller derby. If you can't wait until the movie officially opens, there are a few sneak peaks coming up, the first of which is TOMORROW, September 24, at the Edwards Grand Palace in Houston. The screening starts at 7:30, and if you want to get in, email recruitment at houstonrollerderby dot com for free passes. You'll want to be early also.

Please email if you want passes, and keep checking in for live feeds of the Southern Fried Smackdown and info on our other upcoming events!

Saturday Night Bout!

The regular season may be over, but the Houston Hard Knocks travel team is still going strong. This Saturday night, August 29, HaRD Knocks will be hosting the Minnesota Rollergirls at 3-Star Ice, formerly Jopa (17951 I-45 South, Shenandoah, TX). The tickets will be $12 at the door and $10 online until 5pm today. Doors open at 6:30pm. Be there to support HRD!

Houston Roller Derby Tryouts!

It's the end of our regular season, and we are looking ahead. That's where YOU come in--we need fresh meat!! Attached is an informational handout detailing skills requirements and league requirements for membership in HRD. Here are the details and the dates for tryouts. All portions of tryouts (other than the New Girl Social) will be at the Dairy Ashford Roller Rink (www.skatedarr.com). You must attend ALL THREE mandatory dates to try out. The informational meeting on Tuesday is for any questions you might have for us concerning tryouts. The cost for trying out is $50, which includes the New Girl Social.

Tuesday, August 25- Informational Meeting with Q&A 7:30-9:30pm (optional)
*Wednesday, August 26- Tryouts 7:30-9:30pm (MANDATORY)
*Sunday, August 20- Tryouts 10-12noon (MANDATORY) followed by the New Girl Social at Big John's (12640 Briarforest Dr 77077)
*Wednesday, Sept 2- Tryouts 7:30-9:30pm (MANDATORY)

Please email me with questions or concerns, and also let me know if you plan to attend so we can get a head count. recruitment@houstonrollerderby.com

One Week Away: Championship Bout!!

Next Saturday night, August 15th, will be the last bout of the season! As always, it will be a double-header featuring our own Burlesque Brawlers taking on the newly formed Spindletop Rollergirls of Beaumont and the Psych Ward Sirens and the Bayou City Bosses will battle it out for the championship title. You do NOT want to miss this game! And right now, if you buy your tickets online, you can get a special: $20 for tickets to both the championship and the August 29 game featuring the Houston HaRD Knocks versus the Minnesota Rollergirls. What a deal!

HRD Is Going to Regionals!!

Regionals will be held September 25-27th in Atlanta, Georgia. The Southern Fried Smackdown will feature the top ten teams in the South Central Conference battling it out for a spot to Nationals. Houston's own HaRD Knocks has been working hard all season and won't settle for less than one of the three coveted spots. Our league is run for the skaters by the skaters, which means that all expenses for travel come from donations and money we make at our bouts. If you'd like to donate to help send HaRD Knocks to Atlanta (and hopefully onto Philly for Nationals), please visit our site and click on the button the main page that says Donate. We appreciate all your support!

Come Bowl with Us!

Saturday, July 25 Houston Roller Derby will be having a fundraiser at Palace Bowling Lanes at 2pm. At our website, you can find out how to donate by sponsoring HRD in general, or picking a participating derby girl and making a per-pin pledge. At the very least, come out and see your favorite derby girls off their skates and in some bowling shoes!!

Congrats!

Congratulations to Houston's HaRD Knocks Travel Team who beat out Austin's Honky Tonk Heartbreakers, 108-105. It was a hard-fought derby battle that came down to the last, nail-biting jam, when HRD came back from a 12-point deficit to win.

In case you missed it, come out next month for the championship on August 15. The Bayou City Bosse$ will be defending their title against the Psych Warn Sirens, and the Burlesque Brawlers will take on Beaumont's Spindletop Rollergirls.


photo courtesy of Tony Sodaro

Tonight! 7pm! Kicks! BE THERE!

What else could possibly be going on tonight? Houston Roller Derby will be bouting at Kicks tonight at 7pm. The Houston HaRD Knocks Travel Team will take on Austin's Honky Tonk Heartbreakers and two exhibition teams made up of other favorite HRD skaters will compete. Kicks has been re-permitted and if you have your ticket stubs from the last game, bring them to the door for a discount on your tickets for tonight.

This is the last bout before the championship--don't miss it!

The Running of the Bulls...Sort Of.

Skaters from Houston Roller Derby joined the Big Easy Rollergirls in New Orleans yesterday for the third annual San Fermin in Nueva Orleans--otherwise known as the running of the bulls. In the New Orleans version, people run through the street being chased by rollergirls with bats. To see some photos of the action, click here.

It's Official: July Bout back at Kicks!

Here is the official statement from HRD and Kick's in regards to the unfortunate incident at our June bout:

The ladies of the Houston Roller Derby (HRD) will resume their 2009 season as scheduled on Saturday, July 18 at Kicks Indoor Soccer after ensuring the venue has been permitted to hold up to 1440 people for the last two bouts of the season.

“KICKS sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience to HRD's fans due to either the temperature in the facility or because of the premature end of the bout,” KICKS owner Tim Young said. “KICKS has since obtained proper permitting from the City of Houston for the rest of the season and has made upgrades in its air conditioning units. KICKS welcomes back HRD roller derby fans old and new to the facility.”

All patrons who present proof of purchase of any June 20 bout ticket at the door on July 18 will receive a discount of $7 off admission to the July bout

“We are committed to our sport, volunteers and fans,” HRD spokeswoman Scarlet O’Hurtya said. “We have had a great season thus far and hope that everyone will continue to support us as we continue to grow.”

The July 18 bout will feature HRD's all-star team, the HaRD Knocks, taking on the Texas Rollergirls' Honky Tonk Heartbreakers from Austin and two exhibition teams featuring non-travel team HRD members facing off.

For the August 15 bout, the Psych Ward Sirens (2-0) will challenge defending champions, the Bayou City Bosses (1-1), for the season championship title. The Burlesque Brawlers (0-2) will host the Spindletop Rollergirls from Beaumont.

Free parking with complimentary shuttle service is available in the High School for the Criminal Justice parking lot located a few blocks south of the facility between Dickson and Scotland Streets off Shepherd Drive. Valet parking for $10 is also available at KICKS, which is located at 611 Shepherd Dr., Houston, Texas 77007.

For more information on Houston Roller Derby, visit www.HoustonRollerDerby.com and KICKS Indoor Soccer at www.KicksIndoor.com

Houston Roller Derby Video Promo!

Check out our new promo!

Thanks to Deacon Delluci and his team!

Roll with the Derby Girls: Book Signing Tonight!

Come meet photographer Shelley Calton tonight at Loggia Sport Bar in Sugar Land from 6-8pm! She will be signing copies of her book Hard Knocks: Rolling with the Derby Girls. Mix and mingle with some of the Houston Roller Derby skaters featured in the book, and pick up your copy tonight!

Photos from June 20th Bout

Here is a link to Tony Sodaro's Flickr shots from last night's bout. Enjoy!!

Playoffs Get Called Off

It was quite a night! In case you missed it, HRD held its season playoffs last night where all three teams fought for a spot in the championship. The Bosse$ shut down the Brawlers in the first game, though the Brawlers did a fantastic job and made use of our newest rookies. The second match-up between the Sirens and the Bosse$ was an incredibly close game with both teams in top form. It was a nail-biter, one that you just knew was going to come down to the final jam.

And then it happened.

With no warning, an anouncement was made that the Houston Fire Marshall was shutting us down. Definitely a first in Houston Roller Derby history. Everyone was forced to evacuate the building, and the bout ended with nine minutes left on the clock and the Sirens/Brawlers game yet to be played. Talk about a disappointing end to a great night!

We sincerely apologize to all of our fans who came out to support us. If that was your first experience with us, we hope that doesn't turn you away--please come back! HRD is actively working with Kicks to resolve this, and we will have to figure out as a league what to do about our unfinished playoffs. Please keep your ticket stubs from last night and check back here, on the website, or our Yahoo fan board for updated information. We can't change the events of last night, but we hope to make it up to all of our loyal and loved fans! Thanks for sticking with us despite this unexpected bump in the road.

Playoff Structure

With the re-purposing of the Machete Betties (the Betties are now the Rec League, not a fourth league team), our bouts this year have looked a little different. They are still double-headers, but now two HRD teams play one another, and the third team plays an interleague team from another city. Tomorrow's bout (June 20) will be our playoffs, which means that we're having a triple-header: each HRD Team will play another in a series of three forty-minute games.

You will get to see your favorite teams fight it out for a spot in the championship. First up, the Bosses and the Brawlers, followed by the Bosses and the Sirens, and the Brawlers and the Sirens will finish out the night. As it stands, the Sirens are undefeated, the Bosses have one loss, and the Brawlers have two losses. Tomorrow night, anything could happen! Come wearing red, purple or black to root for your favorite team! Doors open at 6pm, bout starts at 7.

What to Do with Your Friday Night!

It's Friday night, and I KNOW you're not doing anything, so how about catching some great derby as a preview for tomorrow?? Derby News Network will be broadcasting a killer bout: Gotham City vs the Texas Rollergirls. The game stars tonight at 5:30 CST, and there will be live broadcasts Saturday and Sunday as well, so you can have a derby-filled weekend!

And don't forget, you can still buy tickets online (until 5pm) or from your favorite rollergirl to save a few bucks and a wait in line!

Houston's 55 Interviews Private BeenJammin

Here is a great segment from Houston Channel 55's Sports Off-Center where Craig Roberts talks to Private BeenJammin from the Burlesque Brawlers. We love derby in the news!!

Respect the Colonel

Another great derby site belongs to The Colonel. A dedicated HRD supporter, The Colonel does great recaps and previews of HRD bouts, plus a few extras here and there. Be on the lookout for a preview of this week's bout, which is in five--count 'em, FIVE--days!! Do YOU have your tickets in hand??

Need a Derby Fix?

Man, doesn't a month between bouts seem long? Then you need to be checking out Derby News Network. Keep up with derby across the country and even watch live and archived games! HRD, though awesome, is not the only derby out there. We are a part of the WFTDA--Women's Flat Track Derby Association. There are derby leagues all across the country skating for the love of derby. So, for the next week and one day until the June 20th HRD bout at Kicks, stay tuned to the Derby News Network to keep you going.

An Interview with Shelley Calton

The wait is over: one week from today, Shelley Calton's book Hard Knocks Rolling with the Derby Girls will be available for purchase. For several years, she followed derby girls from Houston Roller Derby, creating unique and revealing portraits of the women behind the sport. You can buy your copy at the next bout on June 20th, or through her website. This week, Shelley was kind enough to answer a few questions I had about the book and her work.


How did you become interested in derby girls as subjects for your photographs?
I first heard about the revival of Roller Derby on a radio advertisement while I was visiting Austin in 2001. I had a fleeting thought then about starting a new project; I loved the idea of photographing a diverse group of women athletes in risqué clothing! However, I thought the distance would be a problem. Several years later I read an article in the Chronicle about the start up of a league in Houston. I called up April Pesillo, aka Knocky Balboa, who was interviewed in the article and asked her if I could come out to a practice session. This was the start of my long relationship with the Houston Roller Derby.

-You got to experience some of the behind-the-scenes moments with the skaters that few people get to see. Talk a little about what it was like to see both the public and intimate view.
I really appreciate the liberties and freedom the skaters gave me with my camera. Over time we developed a trusting relationship, which allowed me to capture the more intimate behind the scenes moments, not just the tougher exterior in the rink shots. Being a woman photographer did give me some advantages that male photographers might not have. The private moments just before the start of the game and just after the end of the game were my favorites times to shoot and some of my best shots came from within the dressing room walls.

How do you feel like Hard Knocks fits in with your overall body of work?
Hard Knocks Rolling with the Derby Girls is my first truly documentary photojournalistic body of work. My latest body of work Invisible Thread is a studio still life project of women’s vintage lingerie pinned to a white backdrop. The two projects although quite different do have some similarities. The premise of both bodies of work centers on femininity. I wonder if part of the skater’s costumes, i.e. the fishnets and bustiers didn’t subconsciously lead me into the Invisible Thread work. There is a yin and yang, the feminine yet tough appearance of the women of the roller derby and the fragile side of the lingerie.

Look for Shelly Calton and Hard Knocks Rolling with the Derby Girls at our next bout, June 20th at Kicks! There will be book signings around Houston coming soon--more info to follow!

New Kicks Banner

Check out our fabulous new banner at Kicks! Thanks to Stan and Lou for design and 396 Studios for the printing!

It's Not Too Late!

If you've been thinking it over, debating, or hesitating--the time is now! Tryouts for Houston Roller Derby begin tomorrow night at 7:30pm. There are three days of tryouts (May 26, 27, and 31) and you must attend all three days. Why three days? HRD is a serious time commitment, so it's a nice way to welcome you to the family. Plus, there is a lot to do. You will have skills assessments, interviews, and time trials. Don't be intimidated! If you have questions or want to know more, email me asap for details: kirstenoliphant at gmail dot com or check the HRD website for more info. We'd love to see you there!

posted by Kiki Mojo

Do YOU Have What It Takes?

Ever thought about trying out for Houston Roller Derby?? HRD is holding mid-season tryouts on May 26,27, and 31. (You must attend all three days.) Check out more information here.

Derby in the News

As a rapidly growing sport, roller derby has been featured more and more on television and in the news. You may have caught derby-themed episodes of Psych, Kath & Kim, and Wife Swap this past year, or heard about Drew Barrymore's upcoming film Whip It starring Juno's Ellen Page (based on the book Derby Girl by Shauna Cross). In a sport run for the skaters by the skaters, this kind of publicity is always welcome! Check out this great article featuring Maryland's Mason-Dixon Roller Vixens that highlights the athleticism of derby.

A Night of Honeys and Sirens

Sorry for the delayed post--it always takes me a few days to recover after a bout. Especially this one...

If you missed it, you really MISSED it. The house was packed with more fans than we had at our season opener. Was it to watch HRD's Burlesque Brawlers take on the Hot Rod Honeys from Austin's TXRG? Or to see the Bayou City Bosse$ defend the championship title against the Psych Ward Sirens?? Both were heartfelt and hard-fought games.

Final scores:
Hot Rod Honeys 173 Burlesque Brawlers 28
Psych Ward Sirens 109 Bayou City Bosse$ 90

The 2009 championship is still up for grabs, and next month's playoffs on June 20 will help decide which two teams will be vying for the top spot. The bout will feature a round-robin style playoff with three forty-minute games. What could be greater than watching all three HRD teams battle it out? Get your tickets now from your favorite skater or on the Houston Roller Derby website!

Do You Have Tickets??

Tomorrow night at this time, we will all be heading to the afterparty. BUT. In a little less than 24-hours, you will all be sitting on the edge of your folding chairs, watching HRD's Burlesque Brawlers take on Austin's Hot Rod Honeys and the 2007 Champion Psych Ward Sirens take on the 2008 Champion Bayou City Bosses. There will be some surprising yet familiar faces out there...be warned. I don't know what else in Houston could possibly rival this action. (Don't worry--the Rockets aren't playing until Sunday night.)

Tickets are no longer available online, but you can buy them at the door tomorrow--Kicks Indoor, 611 Shepherd. Doors open at 6pm, bout starts at 7pm. Half-time provided by Dogz on Parole. After party at Christian's Tailgate Bar and Grill, 7340 Washington @I-10. Don't miss it!

Only a Few Days Left....

....to buy your cheap tickets online for this weekend's bout! You know you're going to be there--why not save three bucks and then treat yourself to a beer while watching an amazing double-header?? Click here for all the info about this weekend!

Want to Hang Out with a Derby Girl This Weekend?

Houston Roller Derby has a TON of events going on this weekend. Here's the low-down on where we will be and when. Come out and see your derby girls off the track!

Friday night 8pm-Midnight: Calvin Murphy's Birthday Party at DARR, $20
Come join Calvin Murphy and your favorite HRD girls for the "You're Never Too Old to Roll" party. 97.5 The Ticket will be broadcasting live! Entry includes a T-shirt, skate rental, and food from Blake's BBQ and Burgers. For more info, click here.

Saturday afternoon 1-3pm: Art Car Parade, free!
HRD will be skating with the Art Car Parade. You don't want to miss this great event from Houston's Art Car Weekend! For more info, click here.

Saturday afternoon 4-8pm: Laser Tag, $9.75
This is another 97.5 The Ticket event with Greasemunkey, sponsored by the US Army, Marines, the Houston Dynamo, and Area 21 Laser Tag. Anyone can enter and there will be a tournament with great prizes! Find out more here.

Saturday night 7:30pm: Houston Aeros Game
Come out and support the Houston Aeros and you'll get to see HRD skaters on the ice during half-time. See how derby girls fare on the ice! For ticketing info, check here.

That should be enough to keep you going until next weekend's bout! Don't forget to buy your tickets for the May 16 game at www.houstonrollerderby.com !

posted by Kiki Mojo

Congratulations, HaRD Knocks!!!

On Saturday night, Houston's HaRD Knocks put the smackdown on Atlanta's Dirty South Derby Girls 127-101. It was an exciting game, and we were so happy to host Atlanta. The previous WFTDA rankings had Houston at #3 in the region and Atlanta at #5, so we'll have to wait and see if this will have an actual impact on either team's standings. If you want to read a great recap of the bout, click here to read Phil Arnold's thoughts.

post by Kiki Mojo

Eat Out for a Good Cause!

Today Houston Roller Derby will be participating in Dining Out for Life, a benefit for AIDS Foundation Houston. All day, participating restaurants will donate 33% of all food bills. That's huge! From 5-9pm, the HRD girls will be hosting at Niko Nikos, Barnaby's on West Gray or Shepherd, Pink's Plaza on 14th, or Dragon Bowl Asian Bistro. Come out and join us! If you want more info, check out the Dining Out for Life site.

posted by Kiki Mojo

HaRD KNOCKS Wants YOU!

There is nothing going on this Saturday that could possibly be cooler than THIS. Come out and support your Houston Roller Derby travel team as they continue their journey towards nationals by defeating Hotlanta!

posted by Kiki Mojo

Rule of the Week: Ending of the Period

If you were at the bout last weekend, you know that the Sirens' huge win over Austin's Hell Marys came down to the last thirty seconds of the last jam, which finished AFTER the clock ran out. Announcers and the crowd counted down with the clock to zero and yet the jam continued on, allowing Mistilla the Killa to secure the win. Confused? Here is a brief explanation of how the period ends in derby, based on the official Women's Flat Track Derby Association rules.

-The period ends when the last jam ends, NOT when the clock runs down. The jam ends when the referees blow the fourth whistle, either because the lead jammer called it off (hitting her hands on her hips), because the full two minutes of the jam elapsed, or because of injury/interference.

-If there is more than thirty seconds left on the clock, a new jam will begin. If there are less than thirty seconds left, there will ONLY be another jam if either one of the teams calls a time out. If neither team calls a time out, the clock will run down and the period will end.

So the next time you're sitting in Kicks waiting for the last jam of the game to end, don't just watch the clock. Watch the jam--it may change the outcome of the game!

posted by Kiki Mojo

Recap: Brawlers v. Bosses

How do I write a recap when the whole night was a blur of adrenaline and awesomeness? Let's see...

There was a little bit of this.
With a little bit of that.
And, of course, some of this.
Each team had several injured players from the get-go: Claudia Van Damage, Savage Rose, Major Mayhem and Scar Wars for the Brawlers and Goldie Bloxx, HellaBama and Holla-Pain-Yo for the Bosses. Private Been Jammin' went down in the first half with a shoulder injury, leaving the Brawlers hurting for jammers. Rookie Speed-O Racer did an amazing job racking up the points, pulling the Brawlers ahead. But by the end of the first half, the Bosses were back in the lead. Death by Chocolate and Miss Lead widened that gap in the second half with the help of rookie jammers like Tammityvillor Horror, who had a fifteen-point jam. The final score: Bosses 146 to Brawlers 67.

It was my first bout, so I'm probably not the best person to write a recap. From my perspective, it went by so fast! I loved every second of it, except when I was making stupid rookie mistakes. (Or just stupid mistakes.) Being on the winning team was great, but it sucked seeing the Brawlers skating short...and then shorter. Injuries, ugh!

Speaking of winning, did you see the Sirens whip the Hell Marys?? (Look for a recap shortly!) Next month with the Sirens and Bosses meeting up, I smell blood...

*Photos by Kerry McClain

posted by Kiki Mojo

$3 Goes a Long Way

In today's economy, the three-dollar difference between pre-sale tickets and at-the-door tickets to HRD's bouts can really go a long way. I've done some research, and here are ways you might spend that three dollars if you buy your next ticket online or from a skater.

$3 Will Buy You:
-a beer at Kick's concession stand
-an HRD sticker for your favorite team (with a dollar to spare!)
-an HRD coozie in pink or black to keep your beverage chilled
-most of a tall Starbucks frappuccino
-three items from the dollar store
-a grilled chicken wrap, small fries, and Frosty from Wendy's value menu
-this T-shirt from Old Navy

I think I've proved my point. Think smart. Buy your bout tickets online (until 5pm the night before the bout) or from your favorite derby girl.

posted by Kiki Mojo

It's 5:00 and That Means...

...you missed your chance to buy online tickets for tomorrow's bout! Don't worry--you can still buy tickets at the door. OR, try and catch your favorite derby girl today to buy a ticket direct.

Either way, don't miss tomorrow's bout at Kicks Indoor (611 Shepherd). Doors open at 6pm and the bout starts at 7!!

Saturday Night: Your Questions Answered

If you're reading this blog, chances are you're a fan of Houston Roller Derby. You have already purchased your tickets for this Saturday's bout. You will be at Kicks when the doors open at 6pm to park your folding chair right outside the crash zone, wearing your team shirt for support.

But just in case you're new to this whole derby world, I thought I'd post the top three questions I get asked when talking to people about roller derby.

Is there a ball? No. There is no ball of any kind in derby. Points are scored as each team's offensive player (known as the jammer) makes her way through the pack of defensive players. She scores a point for each player on the opposite team she passes legally.

Are there, like, fights? Hopefully not. Skaters who engage in fighting will be expelled from the remainder of the bout. Roller derby is a contact sport with hard hits and falls. But to keep its integrity as a sport, fights are strictly prohibited.

Do you have to have a tattoo? Um, no. You will find a wild cross-section of women on the derby track. There are a lot of tattoos out there, but having one is not a requirement for skating. And contrary to urban legend, tattoos do not make you skate faster.

Is there a banked track? Houston Roller Derby is a member of the Women's Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA). This means that we skate on a flat track, which actually takes more athleticism, as you have to use your skill to stay on the track. It also keeps the skaters that much closer to the fans. If you want to really get up close and personal , sit in the crash zone where you might catch a derby girl in the lap!

Can I bring my kids? YES! Houston Roller Derby loves its younger fans. We are a little more of a PG-13 sport: there are short skirts and and you're sitting close to the track, you might hear some language. But are the skirts any shorter than those of your favorite football team's cheerleaders?? Probably not. As a testament to kid-friendliness, my one-year-old son will be there, sporting his Mini Mojo onesie.

To see these questions (and more!) answered in action, come out Saturday night, April 18th, at Kicks Indoor to see some genuine flat-track derby action! Doors open at 6pm and the bout starts at 7pm. Get your tickets from your favorite roller girl, at the door, or at the HRD website. See you there!

posted by Kiki Mojo

March recap

Wow, forgot to update after the last game... sorry!!

Just to recap-

March 21st bout
Our new venue, KICKS, was a little warm... I think they may have underestimated how hot roller derby really is! This was our first time running a full bout at our new venue, so there are some obvious kinks to be worked out, but we have taken note of the many suggestions and have a lot of improvements in the works. We're working on a trial-by-error basis here!

Kicks isn't as big and fancy (or expensive) as Verizon, but it really brought back that grassroots vibe we had during the first season at the Arabia Shrine. We had some great music from Beryl Grady, a funny corndog eating contest at halftime courtesy of Miramax's movie "Adventureland" and Moroch entertainment, and ESPN radio 97.5 "The Ticket" held a live broadcast from our after party, as they will for every game this season. All in all it was a good night.

Bayou City Bosses 269, Hurricane Alley (Corpus Christi TX) 8

• The Bosses, defending HRD champions, took on a relatively inexperienced all-star team from Corpus Christi and well, it was rough. But everyone learned something from that game- on both ends! New Bosses had some great opportunities to show they can hang with the rookies and even veterans got the opportunity to play positions they normally wouldn't. No major injuries- that's the best of all!

Psych Ward Sirens 161, Burlesque Brawlers 126

• The ladies in purple put up a hell of a fight, but the two-time HRD champion Sirens proved they want their title back. Unfortunately the only major injury of the game was sustained by Brawlers' captain Claudia Van Damage- who took a nasty spill, was carried off the floor and ended up with a minor concussion. She is recovering well and we can't wait to have her back on the track...
  

More to come, including photos, videos and other goodies from the first game... stay tuned!

Season Kicks off March 21!! Got Tickets?

Join Houston Roller Derby as they begin their 2009 Season at their new home - KICKS Indoor Soccer! (http://www.kicksindoor.com)

Cheaper refreshments!!! Parking lot, street & Valet parking available!!

Come watch the Psych Ward Sirens take on the Burlesque Brawlers and the Bayou City Bosses take on the Hurricane Alley Rollergirls from Corpus Christi in this double header.

Official charity: AIDS Foundation Houston

Half time entertainment includes a corn dog eating contest courtesy of Miramax's new filem "Adventureland" and music by Beryl Grady.

***Doors open at 6PM, action starts at 7PM!***

Season Tickets available online now at http://www.houstonrollerderby.com

Individual game tickets can be purchased in advance for $12 at houstonrollerderby.com, cactus music, montrose skate shop or from your favorite rollergirl!

Tickets at the door are $15 (still cheap!!)

We're Blogging Now!!

This is the OFFICIAL blog of the Houston Roller Derby- a WFTDA member league run by the skaters, for the skaters.

Stay tuned for information from your favorite skaters!

Houston, we have roller derby! And that roller derby has a blog!

-Scarlet O'Hurtya
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