THUNDER BAY – The Thunder Bay Roller Derby League (TBRDL) is an all-female roller derby league. Founded in November 2008, the TBRDL meets three times a week to practice skating skills, improve strength and endurance, and train according to the rules and regulations outlined in the Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association (WFTRDA), the governing body for roller derby leagues across Canada. The TBRDL is 40 members strong and growing.
Moms make up over 25% of the Thunder Bay Roller Derby League. “l have two boys,” says league founder and spokesperson Judy “Judzilla” Roche. “As a mom I really like derby because it gives me a chance to have some much-needed ‘me time’, keeps me fit and helps me release stress while working out those everyday frustrations that can affect how I interact with my kids”.
“The supportive environment within our league makes a huge difference when l’m trying to get back that little piece of myself,” adds Roche.
Some moms come out only for the exercise. Others come to help bust stress. And others come simply to be someone else, other than mom, for a few hours every week.
“l really love derby because I feel that I can totally be myself,” continues Roche.
“Whereas some of the women are attracted to derby because they can be someone totally different than they normally are outside of derby. lt means different things to different people.”
Georgia Canal and her daughter recently joined the Thunder Bay Roller Derby League together as a way to get in shape, stay connected with each other, and meet new people.
“We thought it would be fun to join together,” says Canal. Derby can be for anyone. “You don’t have to skate to get involved,” Roche emphasized.
And although skater recruitment is on hold until the fall, the league continues to look for:
refs and officials as well as volunteers to help out with events and fundraising.
For more information about the Thunder Bay Roller Derby League or to book an interview with league spokesperson Judy “Judzilla” Roche, visit the TBRDL website or call Judy @ 807-345-8038 / 807 -768- 2702.