I don’t think I’ve mentioned it on the site before, but I decided to finally try out for roller derby. I was obsessed with skating as a kid, but as an adult, the only time I get to lace up my vintage quads is on Halloween. For years, I’ve been tempted to check out roller derby and see if I could make the cut. Well, I’ve given into temptation this year! And it’s about time.

I had my first “Skill Night” on Thursday, and I have one more before tryouts on December 5. It’s been almost a week, and I’m still sore! While skating around in the squatting position for two hours, I used  muscles I didn’t even know I had. And I can’t remember the last time I actually learned knew skills and felt the heat of competition. These girls aren’t messing around, and neither am I. I want a spot in the NYC league, and I’m going to try my hardest to get one.

Even though I remember what it was like trying out for the cheer squad every year, I feel a new found sympathy for all you athletes out there trying out for new teams. I didn’t know anyone, there were some girls with more experience who were much better than me, I felt this overwhelming need to impress the coaches and I was just plain old nervous. But none of these things are going to stop me from giving 110% and showing the coaches that I deserve a spot.

I know tryouts aren’t in the near future, but I figured I’d share my experience with you just so you can start getting prepared now. Here’s how to get through worries like mine when you’re trying to be part of a new team.

1. Who cares if you don’t know anyone? Technically, you’re trying out for yourself, so while it might be comforting to have friends at your side, it comes down to you making the team. And before the first practice is over, you’ll be friendly with at least a couple of your potential teammates. I arrived at practice feeling nervous and out of place, but so did a lot of girls, and we realized that as we got to talking. We had to partner up for certain drills, and after practicing hits and blocking, I realized everyone was a little unsure of themselves. Everyone is in the same boat, so don’t feel like you’re an outsider.

2. So, your skills aren’t as developed as some of the other people trying out. So what? It’s about potential. If it’s obvious you have the drive to improve and are determined to learn skills properly, the coaches will notice. You have to give your best effort, even if you look over at the girl next to you and her moves seem effortless. If her skills are perfect, but she stops trying to improve, then your perseverance will give you a leg up.

3. You don’t have to try so hard to impress the coaches. They’re not going to care how fancy you can get if you aren’t performing fundamental skills properly. Show the coaches that you’re paying attention to what they’re teaching you by having perfect form. That’s what is going to impress them, not to mention a great attitude. You might be a star athlete, but if you have a bad ‘tude, the coaches aren’t going to want you anywhere near their team.

4. It’s easier said than done, but don’t be so nervous. If you psych yourself out, you won’t be able to perform at the level you’re capable of. This is something I used to struggle with, and I’m really trying my best to not let what’s going on in my head interfere with my performance. I love to skate. That’s what I need to remember. You love to cheer, so let that be your driving force instead of feeling compelled to do everything perfectly. When you’re doing what you love, and you focus on that, everything else will fall into place. More than anything, coaches want to feel your passion.

When I left the practice space, I felt completely exhilarated. I couldn’t remember the last time I felt that good. Before, I thought roller derby would be fun because I love skating so much. But after I felt that adrenaline pumping through me, I knew I had to have it. And hopefully it’s that want that will get me into the league.

The lesson is if you really want something, you have to go after it. Take a risk! Even if you don’t get it, knowing you did your best and had fun will keep it from being a defeat.

Cheers!

Kathleen <3

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