How did you first hear about roller derby?

I first heard about roller derby in the late 70's - it was a different game then.  Skating had always amazed me but this was the first time I'd seen roller skating as a contact sport.  When my daughter picked up rollerskating and then decided that she'd like to try derby, that's when this all started.  
 
What is something that you know about roller derby now that you wish you knew when you first started?

The community is amazing!!!!  In the three years that I've been involved, across four states, the people I've met have been warm and accepting and a little crazy when it comes to derby.....  I wish that I'd known about this growing up.
 
What is the officiating goal you are working towards right now?

The only NSO position I haven't done (ever) is PLT....  and then there's the scoreboard.  There's a love/hate relationship with the CRD Scoreboard but I will work it out......

What do you do to keep your derby brain switched on?

I recently heard derby described as a game of rapid chess on wheels.  Now I understand the rules better I can begin to understand the strategy.  
 
Who in WARD is inspiring you at the moment?

Everyone - there isn't one person...  the level 1s that come back week after week and get better and better.  The newer skaters facing their first contact scrims and finishing with huge grins.  The skaters that travel long distances to get to training.  The more experienced skaters that take the time to coach/bench.  The refs that take the time to make sure the rules are understood.  

What keeps you enthused about roller derby? 

Thankfully, I don't need to be on wheels to be involved......  I love skating but only in wide open spaces where I don't have to worry about stopping or turning quickly.
 
Who do you nominate as our next WARDian of the Month?

I spent a scrim recently, timing in the penalty box, listening to a benchie yell encouragement and strategy throughout....  I thought she was amazing at it even though she later told me it was her first time benching.....  so I nominate Fang...