Local mum is urging other women to get their skates on and join a fast-growing sport
By Deborah Bowyer 24th Nov 2024
Imagine roller skating and taking part in a contact sport involving two teams of five skaters.
Each skater has a name, the players are called "jammers" and the match is played on an oval track.
The game is intense and fun and this sport, roller derby which originates from America, is alive and kicking in Cheshire East.
And a Haslington mum-of-three who plays for the region's only team – Railtown Loco Rollers – is urging others to follow her. The team's Facebook page is here and the website showing their previous games is here
Sarah May is the Railtown Loco Rollers' social secretary, joining after she got chatting to a fellow mum at The Dingle primary school in Haslington.
"I skated as a kid on the streets," said Sarah. "I grew up in Longton and we had a lot of fun roller skating outside.
"Roller derby is on the up, more and more people are joining. We have lots of fun and it's not only great exercise and a way of letting off steam but also a way of making new friends."
And so fun is the team, who practice on Monday nights (beginners) and Thursdays (open to all levels), that it even has a Mayor on its books!
Mayor of Cheshire East and Crewe West councillor, Marilyn Houston, enjoys roller skating and goes along to the team's practice sessions.
"She's a great skater and has a lot of fun skating with us," said Sarah, whose own skating name is 'Killer Queen'. Sarah, 46, is a huge fan of the band Queen.
"We all have different names from Battlecat to Mavis Mayhem. It's great exercise and we really do have a good time. Killer Queen just seemed fitting for me," said Sarah.
Railtown Roco Rollers was formed 11 years ago and attracts players from far and wide including Sandbach and other parts of Cheshire East.
"No skating experience is required and full coaching is provided. We provide loan kit and skates and currently have about 20 members," added Sarah.
"We're the only roller derby team in Cheshire East. We're an inclusive sport and accept anyone who identifies as female.
"We all chose a skater name and number this becomes your alter ego on track. IWe are also looking out for non skaters to help officiating and refereeing games. No experience is required.
"We have quarterly new skater intakes with the next one being in the New Year."
Railtown Loco Roller practice on Mondays from 6 – 7 pm (beginners) and Thursdays 6.30pm - 8.30pm (open to all levels ) at William Stanier school in Crewe.
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