Last summer at South Bend Pride I ran into someone who I hadn’t seen in a couple years. They were there promoting the South Bend Roller Derby, so of course I popped in for a hug that said “long time, no see” and asked more about SBRD.
A couple months ago, a Facebook post announced an open call for announcers for the roller derby, so I submit my info for the chance to party behind a microphone. I knew little to nothing about roller derby, but I knew how to sprinkle some sauce with a mic in my hand, so I went for it. I got the nod to join the announcing team and last Saturday was the first of four home bouts for SBRD.
Taking place in the Singer Building on the east side of the St. Joseph County 4-H Fairgrounds, the doors opened at 12pm and the crowd filled in quickly for the first of 3 bouts that day. The derby menu was laid out for the day for South Bend Roller Derby vs OH Roller Derby of Columbus, Ohio:
- 1pm Bonnie Dooms vs Green Machine
- 3pm Studebreakers vs Gang Green
- 5pm Commanders Open Gender vs Race City Rebels B Team
What took place over the next 6 hours was awesome. Family friendly fun on the south side with plenty of music and action!
If you’re anything like me with little to no knowledge of roller derby, here’s a crash course on the basics. Additional rules, signals, and details can be found here.
This wasn’t even the whole crowd! I had no idea the roller derby world rolled like this!
Check out the South Bend Roller Derby schedule and rosters here!
Life Is Theatrical Communications 
Leave a comment