"When I first came in, I was not athletic at all, so I was worried about being able to keep up," says Cupcake Chaos, a veteran member of Harbor City Roller Derby. "We work with so many people at all different levels, and I've been able to see people that can barely stand on their skates become confident."
From October 6th through December 15th, Harbor City Roller Derby is hosting Sunday clinics for new skaters from 10am-noon at Washington Community Recreation Center in Duluth. No experience is required and most gear will be available for use at the clinic.
Though derby is a sport that tallies points, wins, and losses, the overwhelming message from skaters about the activity is one of comradery. When reflecting back on their reasons for joining, many current members cited the desire to be a part of a community. "The goal is to create an inclusive environment... to thrive and have fun. It's so special that I want people to fall in love with it like I have," says veteran Crash of derby and the new members. "I'm stoked for them."
Regardless of skating experience, the clinics are open to women, non-binary, and gender expansive individuals 18 years of age or older. For more information and to register, visit Harbor City Roller Derby online. You can also keep up to date via the HCRD Facebook page.
You can hear Community Connection every Tuesday and Thursday at 8am on Northland Morning. This edition of Community Connection is made possible in part by Lakewalk Surgery Center.
