A few months ago, some friends and I had this crazy idea to start our own roller derby team. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, and people and places aren’t always so willing to provide time and space for a group of women hitting each other, but we were pretty determined. So, now, here we are!
Let’s be honest, creating a roller derby team isn’t going to change the world, but if you are someone who has been lucky enough to let this incredibly infuriating, satisfying sport into your life, you know it CAN change your life.
Once we made the decision, there was a laundry list of things to do, and at times it was a little overwhelming. But, you must start somewhere. First order of business was a name. It’s no secret that New Jersey has a bit of a reputation. Whether you think we have big hair, yell a lot and listen to “the boss,” or you think we are all rude and New Jersey is ugly (so not true by the way), one thing is certain – we are tough and we do what needs to be done – even if it means getting a little dirty. Here we are; Dirty Jersey Roller Derby.
Next step was a location. Since most of our skaters are located throughout Monmouth, Somerset and Middlesex counties, we landed in central Jersey and found a place to call home in Metuchen. The Metuchen Sportsplex will be home to DJRD and we could not be happier to be in such a cool place!
So, here’s the official scoop. Dirty Jersey Roller Derby (DJRD), is a non-profit women’s flat track roller derby league created in 2015 by a group of skaters (awesome skaters, I must say), in an effort to form a team where every member has not only a role both on and off the track, but is a vital part of everything we do.
Speaking of vital roles, each and every member of this league deserves a huge shout out. Without any single person, this would not have been possible. From research and paperwork, fronting costs and set up to logos and design, this was truly a result of the blood, sweat and tears (yes, there was blood), of a great group of women, and I could not be any more proud to stand next to them both on and off the track.
Our mission is to progress our skills, have fun, give back to our community and kick some derby ass. We follow WFTDA rules and regulations and we want to skate with you! Whether you want to come skate with us or against us, contact us at [email protected] for information.
