Kristin “Jamazon” Terrell

CAPTAIN OF RUSSELLVILLE ROLLER GIRLS

WHAT IS ROLLER DERBY?

Roller derby is a fast-paced blend of teamwork, brute force, split-second decisions and maneuvering, and no small amount of chaos. Each five-person team has a jammer who scores points by skating past the other team’s blockers. All blockers of both teams form a close group, or pack, making it difficult for the jammers to get through. The blockers have a dual role; they must keep the opposing jammer from passing as well as create opportunities for their own jammer. Jammers may score as many times as they are able to lap the pack in the two minute round, or jam.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT ROLLER DERBY?

I always feel like the fiercest, most invincible version of myself during and after practice. Derby burns out all the stress that builds up over the week.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR DUTIES AS CAPTAIN OF THE RUSSELLVILLE ROLLER GIRLS?

My job is to show newbies how to have confidence in their skates and protective gear. Once they are comfortable with that, they are more likely to be confident in their developing skills and those of the rest of the team. I try to note how new players’ skills are developing so I can encourage or correct as needed. Between Coach Doc Lightning and myself, we ensure that no one leaves practice with any leftover negativity. Twice a week, I get to watch regular women transform into superhero versions of themselves, and the more they skate, the more awesome they become.

WHO CAN PLAY ROLLER DERBY?

Officially, any woman over 18 who has acquired the minimum skills as determined by the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association can play derby.