Our referees,the Enforcers are a vital part of the Derby Doll community. Without their endless support, training and time we would not be the league we are today, let alone be able to hold our bi-monthly bouts! On top of their volunteering, they are also well regarded in the banked track community for their skill as officials. To become an Enforcer takes time, similar to becoming an all star roller derby player and the opportunity to take that first step is coming up! We are holding our New Enforcer Orientation on Wednesday, October 19th. As we get ready to welcome the new crop of potential Enforcers we asked one of our current Enforcers , Wayne No Regretzky to share his experience in joining the Derby Dolls family.
To be an Enforcer! About a year and a half ago, my life was totally different. Life had thrown me a 12-6 curveball, and I swung and missed, HARD!!! I was in a really bad spot in my life when I heard that the Derby Dolls were moving to my hometown of El Sereno. Their first game was to be played on April 25, 2015.
As a teenager, I had gone to a couple of bouts at the Grand Olympic Auditorium, during one of the many attempts to revive the T-Birds. I had a blast every time. No way I was going to miss watching Derby in my own backyard! Needless to say, I wasn’t disappointed.
I heard they had a referee team looking for new refs. I filled out the New Enforcer Orientation form a couple weeks ahead of time, but figured I would never hear back.
About 2 weeks later, I received an email for the New Enforcer Orientation. I confirmed my interest and on May 20, 2015, I began my roller derby journey. I was very surprised at how friendly everyone was! Very welcoming and warm. Immediately, I knew that this is what I wanted to be a part of, something I knew I could be good at. It wasn’t always easy, but has always been rewarding.
As time went on, and the more training I received, I knew I had made the right choice. Becoming an Enforcer is one of the coolest, most rewarding achievements. Through all of this, I have met so many amazing people and am honored to call a lot of them friends! It’s like one big, happy, crazy family!!! It’s SUPER cliché, but Roller Derby changed my life! I wouldn’t change any of it! I look back at myself in early 2015 and can’t believe how much has changed, and for the better. I have the entire Derby Dolls league to thank for so much!
If you are looking to do something very fun, and are looking to be part of something unique and amazing, this very well may be exactly what you are looking for!!!!
Interested in learning more? Sign up today to attend on Wednesday October 19th! All NEO attendees receive 2 free tickets to a future game.