FOCO Girls Gone Derby - Northern Colorado Roller Derby

FOCO GIRLS GONE DERBY’S SKATE-A-THON

2012-01-25T02:06:00.000-08:00

7 p.m. Monday, February 6
Rollerland, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins

FoCo Girls Gone Derby will host its second annual Skate for a Cause Skate-a-thon 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, at Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins. Fifteen percent of the event’s proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Larimer County. The remaining donations will go to FoCo Girls Gone Derby, a nonprofit organization supported entirely by its league members. Contributions are tax deductible.

Skate-a-thon participants include volunteers from Boys and Girls Clubs of Larimer County, FoCo Girls Gone Derby and FoCo’s Spartan Babes Junior Derby. Volunteer skaters are looking for sponsors, who can pledge a set amount or an amount per lap. The public is invited to watch or participate in the Skate-a-thon and the following open skate from 8 to 9 p.m. Admission is $3; skate rental is an additional $1.

FOCO’S MICRO BRUISERS VS. SLAUGHTERHOUSE PRIME CUTS

2012-01-25T02:04:00.000-08:00

7 p.m. Saturday, February 4
Qdoba Events Center, 218 Smokey Street, Fort Collins

FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s A-string travel team, the Micro Bruisers, are kicking off their season with a WFTDA-sanctioned bout against Greeley’s Slaughterhouse Derby Girls 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Qdoba Events Center, 218 Smokey Street, Fort Collins. WFTDA, the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association, is roller derby’s governing body. Sanctioned bouts are used to determine WFTDA ranking. FoCo Girls Gone Derby is Fort Collins original roller derby league, dishing out hip checks since 2006.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased from any FoCo skater or online at www.brownpapertickets.com or www.focogirlsgonederby.com. Tickets also will be available at the door.

2011-10-22T00:36:00.000-07:00

FOCO GIRLS GONE DERBY BRINGS YOU THE HEROES VS. VILLAINS SEASON CLOSER BOUT
Saturday, Nov. 5, at Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins
Doors open at 7 p.m., bout begins at 7:30

With the Villains out to prove bad girls have more fun, and the Heroes ready to roll to the rescue, FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s season closer is guaranteed to be an epic battle of good versus evil. FoCo’s skaters were recently drafted for next season, and home teams have been scrambled and reassembled. Attend this 2011 season finale bout Saturday, Nov. 5, to find out whether your favorite skaters are using their powers for good or if they have joined the dark side.

For a dose of derby every day, purchase FoCo’s 2012 pin-up calendar, available for $10 at the bout. The calendar features 12 skaters chosen by fans through a Facebook poll, along with lots of great action shots and candid photos from the 2011 season.

A portion of the proceeds from this bout will go to the Fort Collins Bike Co-op, an organization that promotes bicycle riding and safety, and refurbishes bikes for those who can’t afford them.

Tickets are $10 presale and $15 at the door. Students and members of the military receive a reduced rate of $10 with a valid ID. Ages 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, from any FoCo derby girl or online at www.brownpapertickets.com. Purchases also can be processed by phone at 800-838-3006.

Umm...OUCH!

2011-10-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

This blog is for all the new recruits out there working their behinds off in practice...so pay close attention recruits! This stuff is HARD!

All through my practices of Basic Skating, Derby Skills, and League Practice I thought I was in pretty good shape. No, I couldn't run a marathon, but I exercised and kept myself healthy. My first scrimmage with the league was a total SLAP in my face! These ladies make it look so easy during bouts!

I had no idea how tired I would be after jamming for 2 minutes! My legs felt like half melted jello, my chest was on fire because I was breathing so hard, and I could barely see around the track! That last bit about seeing is my own fault due to my blindness and phobia about touching my eyes with contacts, but still!

After my first or second jam I was wrecked! Slamma Jamma said I should let all the recruits know just how difficult these scrimmages and bouts can be. So recruits, here's my advice to you. TRAIN HARD!!

Use the practices you have now and push yourself to move past your comfortable limits. (safely, of course) If you're not feeling challenged enough, ask the trainers that night to mix in some sprints in between skills to get your heart and body working!

If you can complete your skills under stress during recruit practices, then when it's time for your first scrimmage.....you'll be ready to kick some derby tail!!

That's my little Skank!

2011-10-11T16:10:00.000-07:00

I couldn't be happier, more excited, or proud!

Let me explain. During my first practice as a new recruit I made a really good friend. You may have seen her this past Saturday at our Annual Black & Blue Ball, The Original Skankster. This was her Derby debut and I was so very proud of her! She worked her little butt off and she rocked her first bout! It was her goal to make it through the ranks and bout before the season ended. I'm pretty sure she only missed 1 or 2 practices since we started in March! That's pretty impressive! If you could have seen my face during her first jam....I was like a proud mama watching her baby walk for the first time. I swear to you...my eyes were welling up a little bit! So happy for my little Skank!

I'm also super pumped for finally making it to Thursday night scrimmages! This is my last step to debuting in my first bout after I get my bearings and hopefully show all the ladies, coaches, and team captains that I'll be an asset on the track! That makes it sound like I have to prove myself to everyone, that's not entirely true. I have to prove myself to only me...and I'm the harshest judge! The ladies and coaches only want me, and the rest of the recruits, to succeed on the track and they do everything in their power to help me reach my goal. And my goal is to skate in the November 5th bout!

Hopefully I'll reach that goal before the end of the 2011 season. If not, then you can bet you'll see me in 2012!

Black and Blue and Dressed to Thrill

2011-09-28T04:23:00.000-07:00

FoCo Girls Gone Derby
cordially invites you to attend the
Sixth Annual Black and Blue Ball
Saturday, Oct. 8
Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins
Doors open at 7 p.m., bout begins at 7:30

Time to break out the taffeta and sequins. FoCo Girls Gone Derby, Northern Colorado’s original roller derby league, is throwing its sixth annual Black and Blue Ball at Rollerland Skate Center on Saturday, Oct. 8.

FoCo’s skaters will be dressed to dazzle as home team Chanel Cartel, in black evening gowns, faces off against home team rivals the Deathrow Dolls, decked out in their finest blue formalwear. This is no choreographed dance, however. Roller derby is a serious sport played according to rules determined by the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association.

The annual Black and Blue Ball is a chance for skaters to get glamorous, while still playing the rough-and-tumble sport they love. Appropriate attire takes on a different meaning in roller derby, and fans are encouraged to get involved in the pageantry by voting for the skaters they feel are the ugliest-dressed, hottest-dressed and an overall Belle of the Ball. Voting is unlimited at $1 per vote. Ballots must be cast by the end of halftime, with the winners announced during the second half. Prizes will be awarded, and winners will be available for photos with fans following the bout.

A portion of the proceeds from this bout will go to the Fort Collins Bike Co-op, an organization that promotes bicycle riding and safety, and refurbishes bikes for those who can’t afford them.

Tickets are $10 presale and $15 at the door. Reduced rate of $10 with a valid student or military ID. Ages 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, from any FoCo derby girl or online at www.brownpapertickets.com or www.focogirlsgonederby.com. Purchases also can be processed by phone at 800-838-3006.

Who We Are

2011-09-07T16:54:00.000-07:00

Typical statement made after someone discovers I'm part of the FoCo Girls Gone Derby League..."No Way!?!", "You're joking!", "You don't look like you play derby!" My inner response to that is "What does a derby player look like?"

The fact is there is no typical player. We're all different personalities, sizes, and shapes. We all hold different talents on the track whether it be speed, blocking, hitting, or juking. Our commonalities are that we love derby, are all productive members of our community, and we lead the same lives as everyone outside of derby.

Some players are in retail, marketing, counselors, business leaders, students, and medical professionals. Most are also wives and mothers following their dreams. We work hard during our days and we work just as hard during our practices.

I wonder what picture of a derby player the average person holds in their head? Are we only women that wear fishnets, short skirts with tattoos and piercings, and a neon colored mohawk? If that's the preconception, then we need to get those people into a bout to see for themselves that all the participants of FCGGD are valuable members of society despite our pension for fishnets. Most likely you've already run into one of our skaters, refs, or non-skating officials during your normal day to day errands.

We might be serving you in a restaurant, helping you make your business more successful, or creating the art that is hanging in your living room. In my case, I just may be giving you that flu shot this year!

FoCo Punchy Brewsters vs. Cheyenne Capidolls

2011-08-31T03:54:00.000-07:00

Fresh from their win in Pueblo on Aug. 26, FoCo’s Punchy Brewsters are ready for the next challenge. The team may be FoCo’s newest, but its skaters have tasted victory and are hungry for more. FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s second travel team, the Punchy Brewsters, take on their neighbors to the North, the Cheyenne Capidolls, Saturday, Sept. 10, at Rollerland. Doors open at 7 p.m.; bout begins at 7:30.

FoCoGGD also is proud to celebrate league founder Jerica “Urrk’n Jerk’n” Martin, who has been selected to compete on Team USA for the Roller Derby World Cup! Martin skates with Denver’s Rocky Mountain Roller Girls and is a national champion from last year’s ultimate derby competition. The tournament will be held Dec. 1-4 in Toronto and is the first of its kind. Seven skaters from Colorado were chosen – more than from any other state – proving once again that Colorado is home to some of the best derby players in the world.

A portion of the proceeds from this bout will go to the Fort Collins Bike Co-op, an organization that promotes bicycle riding and safety, and refurbishes bikes for those who can’t afford them.

Tickets are $10 presale and $15 at the door. Students and members of the military receive a reduced rate of $10 with a valid ID. Ages 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, from any FoCo derby girl or online at www.brownpapertickets.com or www.focogirlsgonederby.com. Purchases also can be processed by phone at 800-838-3006.

The Best

2011-08-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

The trait that I think makes FCGGD great is that they don't hold the typical "try-outs". They believe that if you have the drive and the desire to play derby then you should play! It doesn't matter if you've never placed your foot in a skate or aren't the typical athletic body type. Big, tall, green, or small there is a place for you in derby! To begin you just simply attend one of the regularly scheduled information sessions at RollerLand. In that session you're given information about how practices are run, average time commitments, the financial cost of derby, and how FCGGD benefits our community. From there, you'll have some time to think about joining and then come back for the fabulous, but always necessary paperwork session! (WhooHoo!) Then, after that meeting you'll be ready for your first practice (which you can read about in a previous blog).

Like I said before, the only requirement for FCGGD is that you have the passion for derby. All new recruits go through the same steps of training so it doesn't matter if you've never skated, haven't skated since the 2nd grade, or think you have the wrong body type (Boloney!). Basic skating skills will be your first 4 weeks of training. If you need more training with skating than you get more! There's no pressure except the pressure that comes from yourself.

Bottom line: there is no reason for you to be sitting there reading this blog when you could be skating with FoCo Girls Gone Derby!

Derbyholic

2011-08-23T12:11:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been to a roller derby bout and you can envision yourself skating as either a ref or a tough derby lady? Or have you just recently joined a league, and with only one or two practices under your belt, you're already salivating to get back on the track?...Then I have some urgent news for you!

I'm not a doctor, but I am a nurse and I have your diagnosis. Sorry, but it's deep and it's terminal....you are an ADDICT! Trust me, only another addict can recognize it in others and it's true, all signs point to total addiction. Case in point, I recently had surgery and ended up pouting in front of the surgeon and convincing her that one week off from skating would be plenty of time for healing instead of the two weeks she was recommending. She conceded to my vicious rhetoric with strict warnings, of course, but I won! What's a little bleeding for skating with some of the coolest ladies I know?!

Now, with that said, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE don't have surgery or an injury and skate against medical advice. Seriously, we nurses are the worst role models when it comes to our own health. But my diagnosis still stands for you and you'll be better for it!

So, if you are already a member of a league, you will have days when it feels like your legs and feet will just not cooperate, but then you'll have a beautiful hit or an awesome booty block and your addiction's voracious appetite will be fed. Now, if you haven't joined a league yet, particularly FoCo Girls Gone Derby (what are you waiting for?), and you have been diagnosed by yours truly as a Derbyholic, then I had better see your little addicted face at our next recruitment meeting!

The First

2011-08-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

In honor of the new recruits that started derby practice last night here’s my recollection of my first practice and maybe some of the newbies will agree.

First, I ate too much at dinner before practice. Mistake. Second I felt like my whole body was shaking! I was so nervous to lace up my skates! What if I totally sucked?! What if I wasn’t in good enough shape? God, please don’t let me fall! And what’s the first thing I did once I hit the track? Yep, I fell. Right on my butt. The embarrassing thing about that was that I wasn’t even moving! I was just standing there! And flip! There go my feet over my head. It wasn’t pretty, but I got a round of applause for the first fall of the night, got up, and shook it off.

Next were static exercises. Um…..ouch! Mimicking skating movements while static on the carpet really gets those leg muscles burning! Little do you know how important those muscles will be later as you advance through practices. Then come the dreaded toe stop exercises! Jumping jacks, running man, high knees! All on a one square inch piece of rubber attached to my toes! After that we finally got on the track to skate! We did right foot push, scissors, snow plows. My feet were numb the entire time because I had laced my skates too tight. At the end of practice I had Elvis legs. You know, where you take a step and your leg does a little shake and your knee feels like it will just buckle. The next day I was sore, but super psyched that I had finally started and couldn’t wait until the next practice! To this day I am still sore after every practice and my mantra during practices is if my lower back isn’t on fire, I’m not in good skater position!

Chanel Cartel vs DeathRow Dolls

2011-08-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

If you were anywhere else other than Rollerland last night you missed an awesome bout! The Deathrow Dolls faced Chanel Cartel and it was a scrapping fight for points with Chanel Cartel ultimately besting the Dolls. A scary moment during the last five minutes of the bout occurred when Rox Yorr Soxov took a tumble and found herself at the bottom of a pile of skaters. The bout stopped, the spectators were silent, and all skaters created a wall around Rox allowing her privacy with the coaches and EMT. As an emergency RN, it was extremely difficult for me to stay on the sidelines and not go help Rox and the EMT. And in truth, if Rox hadn’t gotten up within the countdown in my head, I would have hit the track running. But, in true athletic form, Rox stood up under her own power and skated off the track to applause and relieved sighs. Rox even took the victory lap with the teams, although with a slight limp.

This is just one bit of proof that these women are in fact true athletes. They subject themselves to the pain of bruises, sprains, concussions, and broken bones for the love of Roller Derby. Speaking of the love of roller derby, the bout rookies definitely had their cherries popped last night. The veteran ladies certainly had their fun with the (excuse the term) debutants. To their credit, with each hit and fall, those ladies got back up on their skates and pushed harder to get through that pack or stop that jammer. My congratulations to you debutants! You all should be proud of yourselves!

If you missed this bout, no worries! Come see our next bout on September 10^th!

Extra! Extra!

2011-08-13T03:14:00.000-07:00

Check out FCGGD's newsletter

Newbie!

2011-08-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

Hello Fervent FCGGD Readers! You don’t know me……yet! My name is Cassius Foul Play, but most just call me Cash, and I am a new recruit. For those that are younger than me, Google Cassius Clay and my name will make a lot more sense. (It’s weird to me that Google is both a noun and a verb.) I attended the information session to join FCGGD in March, 2011 and once I made the decision to commit to the time, effort, and bruises I was excited, but had just one problem. I had no idea how my future as a new recruit would look! I was terrified on my first real practice!

So, for all the ladies out there pondering your future in derby or you’ve already joined and are a new recruit as well…..this blog is for you! My plan is to chronicle my experiences through the ranks of derby and hopefully give an insight into the mysteries of FCGGD!

Stay tuned for recollections of The First Practice…dundunduuun

“If you aren’t going all the way, why go at all?” ~ Joe Namath

2011-08-10T13:31:00.000-07:00

No equipment necessary for the informational meeting.

2011-07-26T01:42:00.000-07:00

FoCo Girls Gone Derby
Roller Derby Bout

Deathrow Dolls vs. Chanel Cartel

Saturday, Aug. 13

Rollerland, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins

Doors open at 7 p.m., bout begins at 7:30

FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s home teams, the Deathrow Dolls and Chanel Cartel, have added some new skaters to their ranks and will face off Saturday, Aug. 13, at Rollerland. These ladies are your friends, your neighbors and your co-workers who happen to lace up old-school roller skates and knock each other down for fun. This is an authentic athletic competition, and there will be a winner. Will it be the inmates on skates in their orange jumpsuits or the gold hot pants-wearing Chanel Cartel that triumphs in the battle over home turf? Come to the bout to find out!

A portion of the proceeds from this bout will go to WomenGive, a partnership between United Way of Larimer County and the Women's Foundation of Colorado that seeks to empower women and girls and help women in Larimer County achieve economic self-sufficiency.

Tickets are $10 presale and $15 at the door. Students and members of the military receive a reduced rate of $10 with a valid ID. Ages 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, from any FoCo derby girl or online at www.brownpapertickets.com. Purchases also can be processed by phone at 800-838-3006.

Extra! Extra!

2011-06-09T02:54:00.000-07:00

Check out FoCoGGD's newsletter

2011-05-26T03:26:00.000-07:00

FoCo “Roll” Reversal: Refs vs. Skaters

ROLLER DERBY BOUT

Saturday, June 11

Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins

Doors open at 7 p.m., bout begins at 7:30

FoCo Girls Gone Derby skaters will have the opportunity to knock down the ones who usually call their penalties, and derby referees will see what it’s like to skate between the lines in FoCo’s first-ever refs and skaters mix-it-up bout.

Refs will take to the track instead of laying down the law. Skaters will be forced to skate both with and against the sport’s authority figures. However, just because some brave refs have turned players for this bout, that doesn’t mean the rules have been tossed out. This bout will be officiated the same as any other. But with the “zebras” (as derby refs are called) in on the action, it will be entertaining to see which group commits the most penalties – the skaters or the refs!

2011-05-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

Check out FCGGD's newsletter

2011-05-04T02:42:00.000-07:00

FoCo Punchy Brewsters vs. High City Derby Divas

ROLLER DERBY BOUT

Saturday, May 14

Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins

Doors open at 7 p.m., bout begins at 7:30

FoCo Girls Gone Derby team the Punchy Brewsters will take on the High City Derby Divas on Saturday, May 14, at Rollerland. Come show support for your hometown skaters as these sassy lasses roll against the visiting team from Aurora.

Named for the city’s passion for brewing beer, FoCo Girls Gone Derby, Northern Colorado’s original roller derby league, fields two travel teams: the MicroBruisers and Punchy Brewsters. FoCo’s MicroBruisers bouted and beat the Durango Roller Girls on April 9. Now the Punchies are ready to take their turn on the track.

April 9th Bout Recap: Foco Micro Bruisers vs. Durango Roller Girl Derailers

2011-04-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

Feeling refreshed from a week of training after the Dust Devil Tournament in Tucson, Arizona, the FoCo Micro Bruisers were itching for more action. FoCo played three bouts in the tournament against: Bellingham Roller Betties (Bellingham, WA), Santa Cruz Derby Girls (Santa Cruz, CA), and Assassination City (Dallas, TX). They came away from the experience with new skills and geared up to take on the Durango Roller Girls' travel team, the Derailers. Eager to see what new tricks were up the Micro Bruisers' wrist guards, a packed house witnessed the girls play one of their cleanest, highest scoring bouts ever against another league. FoCo only received 36 minor penalties and 13 majors for the duration of the bout (nearly half the penalties called on Durango), with Slamma Jamma, Chocolate MILFshake and Princess of Wails the bout's cleanest players. With a tighter defense than ever, FoCo had nearly a 60 point lead by the end of the first half, with the score sitting: FoCo-89; Durango-30. After rockin' out to DB and the Catastrophe and taking some photo ops with their fans, they came back for an even stronger second half! FoCo shut out the Derailers for the first 10 jams, while scoring a cool 61 points. Jam six had been a power jam for Misty Skull Krippler, the bout's highest scoring jammer. Durango wasn't without some tricks, themselves. In the 16th jam of the second half, they 'passed the star', which is to say Reckless Rhonda, their third highest scoring jammer, passed her star helmet cover to Kim Jen Illin', the Derailer pivot for that jam, making Kim the jammer in the process. The subterfuge wasn't enough to throw FoCo off, as they followed that jam by taking advantage of another power jam; Aimee ArmaLite (third highest scoring jammer of the evening) scoring another 15 points. Rounding off the top scoring jammers of the game was Rox Yorr Soxov, the second highest scorer and one of the highest called for penalties (watch out girls). Determined to live up to her name, she scored a whopping 53 points for FoCo. The final score stood: Micro Bruisers- 208 to Derailers- 46, a massive victory, leaving fans and skaters alike excited for the next home bout. Don't miss out on next month's action as the FoCo Punchy Brewsters take on the High City Derby Divas, May 14th at Rollerland Skate Center. I'll see you there! Your Humble Announcer, ~Evil I. McVillain

ROLLER DERBY SHOWDOWN

2011-03-30T04:15:00.000-07:00

FoCo Micro Bruisers vs. Durango Roller Girls

Saturday, April 9

Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins

Doors open at 7 p.m., bout begins at 7:30

FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s travel team the Micro Bruisers return from the Dust Devil Tournament in Tucson on April 2-3 just in time to face off against the Durango Roller Girls on FoCo’s home turf. Come show your support for your hometown badasses on roller skates on Saturday, April 9, at Rollerland.

You may have seen FoCo’s home teams, the Deathrow Dolls and Chanel Cartel, skate at Rollerland, but this is the Micro Bruisers’ first home bout against another league this season. The Micro Bruisers is FoCo’s team of skaters culled from the home teams who tried out and were selected to skate competitively in order to earn a WFTDA ranking for the league. WFTDA – the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association – is the sport’s international governing body.

Twelve leagues from throughout the Western region will compete in Tucson, Ariz., April 2-3, with FoCo’s Micro Bruisers kicking off their tournament run against the Bellingham Roller Betties. Visit www.dustdeviltournament.com for more information.

A portion of the proceeds from this bout will go to Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program. Visit www.fortcollinshabitat.org/index.php?pr=Women_Build for details.

Bout Recap: Saturday, February 26th, FoCo MicroBruisers vs. Slaughterhouse Prime Cuts

2011-03-03T14:01:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday's bout was difficult for everyone. All in attendance were in mourning, not only for Andrew "Andy Capp" Hodge, a Slaughterhouse Referee, NSO, and man who put smiles on the faces and warmth in the hearts of all he met, but also for the father of one of the skaters who recently passed away. That night's bout was dedicated to these men who are greatly missed.

Perhaps because of the high running emotion, it was a particularly dirty game on both sides. Back-blocking, forearms and cutting were the most common penalties committed by both teams. Slaughterhouse with a whopping 57 minors and 29 majors, along with FoCo's 54 minors and 21 majors kept the penalty boxes full and the fans looking to see the new line-ups with every jam.

The pandemonium made it difficult to tell what exactly happened to our strategy, but by the end of the first half we knew one thing-- it wasn't working. Misty Skull-Krippler, our player who jammed the most in this bout and a jammer we're used to seeing high scores from, only managed 3 points in the first half. Aimee Armalite, the game's big scorer for FoCo, managed 24, but it just wasn't enough as we came to half time with the score standing: Slaughterhouse, 69 to FoCo, 40.

FoCo is famous for playing harder in the second half, sometimes making a comeback, so I looked forward to the next period. It was a mixture of hope and heartbreak, as FoCo cleaned up their game, committing less than half the penalties as in the first half (in spite of Slaughterhouse stepping up their penalties) and began serious scoring. Chocolate Milfshake, Raven Luna C (one of our new girls in her first bout), and Rox Yorr Soxov put on the gas. FoCo scored more points than Slaughterhouse in the second half and it looked like we were not only going to catch up, but overtake them.

There was a good chance we would have won the game, if it wasn't for a few key mishaps, not just affecting scoring ability, but overall morale. LA's Finest, also playing her first bout, played a penalty heavy game from start to finish and was expelled in the 5th jam of the second half for too many trips to the box. Adding insult and injury, Rox Yorr Soxov, who was scoring big in the last half, was taken out of the game in the 11th jam due to injury by what looked like a barely legal hit. Mary Poppin' Caps was also sent out for injury in the second to last jam of the bout.

Final score sat Slaughterhouse at 143 to FoCo's 119. Victory or defeat, the first bout of the season is always an exciting one. In victory we celebrate our hard work that got us there and in defeat we learn what we need to do better. I'm excited to see what new strategies lay ahead and our new girls in our first home bout on March 12th and hope to see you all there!

Your Humble Announcer,
~Evil I. McVillain

GAME ON!

2011-03-01T08:59:00.000-08:00

FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s Season Opener

Roller Derby bout, Saturday, March 12

Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins

Doors open at 7 p.m., bout begins at 7:30

FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s home teams Chanel Cartel and Deathrow Dolls are ready to roll for the 2011 season. Brand-spankin’-new skaters, who have been training hard since last season and have earned their uniforms, will join their teams on the track for the first time on Saturday, March 12.

The league has improved literally by leaps and bounds over the past several months, with skaters practicing through the one-month “off-season” instead of taking a break. The 2011 season promises more strategy and athleticism along with the familiar thrills and spills that home crowds look forward to watching.

FoCo’s travel team, the Micro Bruisers, has begun its season and is heading to Pueblo March 19 and to the Dust Devil Tournament in Tucson April 1-3.

A portion of the proceeds from March 12’s season opener bout will go to Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program. Visit www.fortcollinshabitat.org/index.php?pr=Women_Build for details.

Tickets are $10 presale and $15 at the door. Students/military receive a reduced rate of $10 with a valid ID. Ages 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, from any FoCo derby girl or online at www.brownpapertickets.com or www.focogirlsgonederby.com. Purchases also can be processed by phone at 800-838-3006.

2011-02-25T15:23:00.001-08:00

Derby Passion

2011-01-23T09:44:00.000-08:00

I love to ask every derby girl the same question:
Why did you join derby?
Whatever random way they heard about tryouts, or where they saw their first bout, the reason is always the same, they became INFECTED with the passion to play derby! I love that we all have that in common.

Having a group of 3 strong willed women doesn't always go so smooth, nevermind a group of 30 strong willed women!

But our common passion for derby, and the chance to play overcomes most adversity. That is why I love hanging out with derby girls.

Whatever your hobby, interest, or "thing" may be, I hope you become INFECTED with a passion for it!

My first bout was nearly 2 years ago. My husband and I took our family to a bout in Greeley for Easter. I had seen Roller Derby on T.V. when I was a kid, and was pretty excited, even though I knew it was fake and choreographed back in the 80's.

I watched FoCo Girls Gone Derby vs. Slaughterhouse Derby Girls, and WHOA!!!!! This was NOT fake, these were amazing women, playing for REAL! REAL HITS! REAL FALLS! REAL BADASS WOMEN!!!

I knew right away that I wanted to try to do this, but had not skated in nearly 20 years! (I will tell you about learning to skate next time.) I wished (and still do wish ) that I had found a way to play derby 10 years ago. I told my husband that I really wanted to play, but I thought I was too old (34).

This is what I love about my husband, he walked right up to the bench manager of FoCo, and asked her what it takes to play. He also told her that I thought I was too old. She came right over to me, told me about the next recruitment, and then said "And you are perfect just the way you are, there is a place for every shape and size in derby".

What????!!! I could feel good about my appearance, fit in, hit girls, get in better shape, and have fun?

And that is exactly what I have gotten to do while playing derby!

DERBY EVERY DAY!
~Slamma

Recruit Informational

2010-12-06T18:27:00.000-08:00

Please come to our new recruit informational meeting at Rollerland Skate Center, 324 South Link Lane in Ft. Collins. You do not need to bring anything. We will be going over all of the information to join our league. The meeting is Sunday, December 12th, at 8:30pm.

FoCo Girls Gone Derby vs Minnesota Rollergirls All-Stars

2010-05-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

FoCo Girls Gone Derby vs Minnesota Rollergirls All-Stars

Roller Derby bout, Sunday, May 23
OD’s Sports Crossing, 218 Smokey Street, Fort Collins
Doors open at 11:30 a.m., bout begins at 12 p.m.

FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s all-star roller derby team, the Micro Bruisers, take on the Minnesota RollerGirls All-stars Sunday, May 23, for a high-noon showdown at OD’s Sports Crossing, 218 Smokey Street, between Loveland and Fort Collins, off Highway 287 directly east of Tynan's Saab. Come cheer for your hometown roller derby superstars as they bash it out against St. Paul, Minnesota’s top-notch skaters.

Tickets are $10 presale and $15 at the door. Students receive a reduced rate of $7 with a valid student ID. Ages 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased from any FoCo derby girl or online at www.brownpapertickets.com or www.focogirlsgonederby.com. Purchases also can be processed by phone at 800-838-3006.

Now is your chance to see FoCo Girl's Gone Derby travel team at a local bout, rather than having to travel to another state to do so. Not only that, but the results of this bout will be ranked nationally in the Women's Flat Track Derby Association. And it's on a Sunday afternoon. How can you beat that?

For more information, visit www.focogirlsgonederby.com

Blood, Sweat and Skate!

2010-03-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

Our season opener, Derby Strikes Back! is tomorrow. Wow! So much has happened since my last post. I have had to take a break from skating due to the crappy knee injury that has never healed correctly. So, from skater to announcer I go! Still in charge of bout production, the last couple of weeks have been crazy with scheduling, confirming, budgeting and assigning the new recruits to their tasks for the bout. Good God, I hope I haven't forgotten anything!

All of my personal stress aside, it will be an amazing production and I hope you all enjoy it! Love and Skate!
~Mary Queen O'Shots

FoCo Girls Gone Derby 2010 Season Opener - FoCo Derby Strikes Back!

2010-03-09T18:51:00.000-08:00

One week after FoCo Girls Gone Derby's travel team—the FoCo MicroBruisers—achieved a stunning victory over Greeley's Slaughterhouse Derby Girls, Fort Collins’ home teams, Chanel Cartel and Deathrow Dolls will face off for the first time in 2010 on Saturday, March 13, at Rollerland. After a one-month off-season, Northern Colorado’s original roller derby league began training in January for what promises to be an eventful season.

After a couple months of rigorous practice, FoCo’s home teams can’t wait to be turned loose on one another in the first home bout of the season. Fort Collins derby fans will notice some changes this year, from the lineups to the uniforms.

Ten percent of the proceeds from this bout will go to Loveland’s Alternatives to Violence, an organization dedicated to intervention in, education about, and prevention of domestic violence, sexual assault and other violent crimes. Bring a donation of household toiletries for Loveland's Alternatives to Violence to receive one dollar off the price at the door.

Tickets are $10 presale and $15 at the door. Students receive a reduced rate of $7 with a current student ID. Ages 10 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, from any FoCo derby girl or online at www.brownpapertickets.com or www.focogirlsgonederby.com. Purchases also can be processed by phone at 800-838-3006.

Day in the Derby Life

2010-01-22T12:38:00.000-08:00

Practice Day, Morning: Wake up at some obscenely early hour, slowly stretch, carefully taking inventory of old aches, new injuries and making sure normal movement is possible. Make coffee, grab a steaming mug and take the dog out. Smoke a cigarette while the dog does her thing. Stumble back inside and feed the dog and the cat as the four year old shuffles out of his room rubbing his eyes and politely demanding chocolate milk and Cheerios. Feed the child. Shower quickly. Scramble to find clothing that is clean, work appropriate and not in desperate need of ironing. Dress the child. Hastily apply mascara, powder and lip gloss if there is the luxury of an extra five minutes after brushing teeth; both mine and child's. Gather all necessary belongings for the child and myself and toss into backpack or purse. Kennel the dog, and swallow a handful of ibuprofen before rushing out the door. Curse myself for not starting the car and de-icing the windshield earlier. Rush the boy to daycare and rush back to the leasing office for work.

Work Day: Apologize to the boss for being five minutes late and swear for the thousandth time it will never, ever happen again. Turn on computer and make coffee while the computer takes it's damn sweet time to load. Check messages, answer email, go over the day's agenda with boss. The rest of the day is chocked full of coworkers throwing childlike tantrums, current residents throwing fits about their neighbors and/or roommates ("he won't do the dishes so I need you to evict him"), former residents complaining about move out charges ("What'd ya mean I gotta clean the place or I get charged?") and touring prospective residents ("I like that utilities are included! Did I just step in something?"). Lunchtime: Walk dog and then short nap. Rest of the day, same as above but with a bit of a limp as the morning's ibuprofen has worn off and the knees begin to get cranky.

End of Work Day: Turn everything off, lock up office, rush to daycare to pick up the boy before daycare closes and begins charging by the minute. Seriously. Have the best conversation of the day in the car with my four year old son! Rush to child's dad's apartment and herd the boy and belongings inside. Hugs and kisses for child. Try to leave as child's dad tries to prolong conversation. Gotta go! Get home, walk dog, smoke cigarette. Text message from team mate; crap! Dues are due again! Daydream briefly about winning Powerball and getting a new tattoo. Fix a light dinner, feed myself, dog and cat. Rest on the couch for an hour, but not really because the child's father calls at least twice. One hour and fifteen minutes to practice! Begin the hunt through the apartment for practice clothes that may have been washed less than two practices ago. Check derby bag and make sure all equipment is there (good god, I should wash my pads!). Another handful of ibuprofen. Walk dog, then kennel her and off to practice!

At the Rink: 20 minutes before practice begins. Loiter outside for a bit smoking and chatting with league mates about all things derby and get caught up on every one's non-derby lives. There will be no outside world aggravation here; bad news regarding any league mate is met with sisterhood and support and the knowledge that in a few minutes we will be able to skate off our stress. Excited chatter continues as we go inside. Everyone hurries to get knees braced, ankles taped, laces replaced, trucks loosened, toe-stops adjusted and gear on. One by one we enter the track for more chit-chat and a few warm up laps and last minute equipment adjustments. 9 pm SHARP! practice begins. Two hours of non-stop skating! Hurray! 11:05 pm, practice ends, we are released! Sweaty, breathless and pumped full of endorphins, we peel off soaking wet equipment, yank our blistered and calloused feet out of our skates, chase down coaches, trainers and committee heads with various questions, explanations, comments and checks for dues. A few shouts of "Luscious Nectar!" "Surfside!" or sometimes "Elliot's!" fly over the dull roar letting everyone know where the after practice beers shall be consumed that night.

After Practice: Back out in the parking lot, several of us light up cigarettes, compare bruises and/or injuries and say about twenty times, "Good practice!" One by one we head for our vehicles and either head home to sleeping families or meet up with the party crowd in Old Town. I somehow fall in between these two categories; the child is with his dad for the night, but usually I can't afford where the other women have chosen to imbibe. So, off I go to meet up with my gentleman friend who never seems to mind how sweaty I am. And he thoroughly appreciates my practice shorts. Yay me! After a few beers, a couple of shots (I am the Queen you know) some random texts from a few derby women, several rockin' tunes on the jukebox, the endorphins begin to wear off, the aches begin to creep back and the edges of my euphoria are touched with fingers of sleepiness. Realizing how early I will have to wake up, walk the dog and get ready for work, I pay my tab and say my goodbyes. Time to leave with my gentleman friend and snuggle up in his bed. As my eyes close, the smile on my lips stays put; I am sore, exhausted and nursing several new bruises and/or rink rash, but the feeling of accomplishment and fulfillment always overrides any physical discomfort. Before the REM begins, I have already outlined in my head the job assignments and schedule of events for the next home bout. I love being a FoCo Girl Gone Derby!

2010 Training Has Begun!

2010-01-15T09:48:00.000-08:00

As I look on the track and see all of the new recruits so carefully skating through their drills, I have a small smile on my lips. It was only one year ago that I was in their position. I am filled with excitement for them and anticipation for myself thinking about the upcoming season and what it will mean for all of the newbies. 2009 was an amazing year for me; filled with life changing events, physical injury, new friendships and growth as a woman all piled onto a huge emotional rollercoaster. However, no matter what was happening in my off the track life, derby and FoCo were always there for me. Being a part of this league has brought so much more than physical fitness. I have discovered parts of myself that have been too long dormant. I have developed not only friendships, but discovered sisterhood. I can only hope that I can be a part of something similar for the new league members.

For myself, I look forward to all 2010 has to bring: my son learning to read, a newfound commitment to work, a new romance, and of course developing even further as a skater, league member, Deathrow Doll and possible mentor to my new derby sister.

Sentimental schlock aside, good luck to all of the new skaters, refs and support staff, veteran league members and coaches! Here's to 2010, may it be even more than we could all hope for!

Love and Skate!
~Mary

Open Recruitment

2009-12-06T13:12:00.000-08:00

Have you ever pictured yourself bouting with FOCO GIRLS GONE DERBY?

Northern Colorado's premiere derby league FoCo Girls Gone Derby will be having OPEN RECRUITMENT Monday, December 7th @ 8:00pm. Meeting will take place at Rollerland Skate Center - 324 S. Link Lane, in FOCO.

Even if you think you have two left feet, as long as you have a positive attitude and motivation, we will train you to join the ranks of FoCo's Derby Girls.

Recruitment is open to women 21 years of age or older.

Remember to visit www.focogirlsgonederby.com and sign up for our monthly newsletter to keep you updated on all the derby action.

December 5th Season Closer

2009-11-24T16:15:00.001-08:00

YOU ARE INVITED TO BEAR WITNESS TO
MATRIMONY ON WHEELS AND
A KNOCKDOWN DRAG-OUT ROLLER DERBY BOUT
Saturday, Dec. 5 at Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins
Doors open at 6 p.m., bout begins at 7

Fort Collins’ home teams, Chanel Cartel & Deathrow Dolls, will meet on the track one last time in 2009. It has been a tumultuous season for Northern Colorado’s original roller derby league, but FoCo Girls Gone Derby never fails to put on exciting and entertaining bouts. Each bout this year has been highly competitive, and on Dec. 5, underdogs Chanel Cartel hope to close out the season with a win against powerhouse team Death Row Dolls.

This year’s season closer is also a very special night for Chanel Cartel skater Kaiti “Rox Yorr Soxov” Hines, who will wed fiancé Matt Orr during halftime. FoCo coach Reverend Jimmie James will perform a brief, but completely legitimate, ceremony. The bride won’t be wearing white, though; she’ll be sporting her team colors: black and gold, and – of course – her skates! You’ve seen her cut through the pack as a jammer and knock girls down as a blocker, but on Dec. 5, you will get the rare opportunity to see Roxy as a blushing bride.

Instead of a wedding gift, bring a toy to donate to the Toys for Kids drive and get $2 off admission to the bout. FoCo derby girls are partnering with the City of Fort Collins Recreation Department in their benefit to collect toys for disadvantaged youths in Fort Collins. Toys should be new, in the package, but unwrapped and appropriate for kids ages 3-12.

As with all of our bouts, beer will be on sale for those 21 and older. An afterparty location will be announced at the bout.

Presale tickets are $10, and tickets will be $15 at the door. Students receive a reduced rate of $7 with a current student ID. Ages 10 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, from any FoCo derby girl or online at www.brownpapertickets.com or www.focogirlsgonederby.com. Purchases also can be processed via phone at 1-800-838-3006.

For more information, visit www.focogirlsgonederby.com

Black & Blue Ball - Oct 10th

2009-10-20T07:51:00.000-07:00

Black & Blue Ball - Oct 10th

2009-09-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

You Are Cordially Invited to Attend

FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s Black and Blue Ball

Roller Derby Bout on Saturday, October 10

at Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins

Doors open at 6 p.m., bout begins at 7

Fort Collins’ two home teams, the Death Row Dolls and Chanel Cartel, will face off for the first time since June on Saturday, Oct. 10, at our annual formal. Skaters will be gussied up in evening gowns, and the ruffles and sequins are going to fly. Just because FoCo’s skaters clean up pretty, doesn’t mean they will play nice.

The league has spent the past several months training new recruits who will be our featured debutantes at the ball. These girls are ready to dance. However, there’s no choreographing in derby. All the hip checks, whips, hits and pushes are real.

“Whip It!”, starring Drew Barrymore and Ellen Page as rollergirls, is set to open in theaters Oct. 2. The movie, based on a book written by a real derby girl, is an example of the resurgence of the sport. Experience the real thing firsthand with local players who may be your friends, neighbors or co-workers.

This will be the prom you wish you’d attended. Fans are encouraged to wear formal attire and participate in FoCo Girls’ fundraiser by having their photos taken with a derby girl. Halftime entertainment will be provided by a belly dancing troupe, and beer will be for sale for those 21 and older. An afterparty location will be announced at the bout.

Entry is $10 for presale tickets and $15 for tickets purchased at the door. Students receive a reduced rate of $7 with a current student ID. Ages 10 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, The Bean Cycle coffee shop, any FoCo derby girl or online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/78268. Purchases also can be processed via phone at 1-800-838-3006.

On Spillin'

2009-09-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

My thoughts go out to one of the newer ladies on the team this past weekend, who suffered a skate-to-the-back at practice and subsequently needed some medical treatment. I know that injuries within the sport happen all of the time, but when it hits home, it sort of put things into perspective. Roller derby is a real sport; we all work just as hard as any other team of athletes when we're out skating on the rink. We risk injuries every night, and we keep coming back for more because we love it!

Out Of Play Penalty (Bridging) 20 Feet Rules 4.3 and 6.5

2009-09-18T00:06:00.000-07:00

Ok I think I see now what's up, not really called bridging to me just moving the engagement zone up 10 feet . But if you have one skater within 10 feet(hips) of the pack in front, then 20 feet from her for out of play penalties. If she is pass 10 feet in front of the pack, then she is not part of the pack but still in play and there is no bridging here. So then the skater that was 10 feet in front of the bridging skater now becomes pass the 20 feet and can receive out of play penalties. Cool I think I am clear on this now and will remember to look for this on the next practice.

In rules 4.0 section 4.3 shows a diagram of the out of play, 6.5 explains the out of play penalties.

FoCo Girls Gone Derby on Video... by Nigel Aves

2009-09-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

Thunder in the Rockies 2009
FoCo Girls Gone Derby - Donna's VS Bruising Altitude

thank you Nigel Aves of Soft Focus Imaging

Of Work and Soy Sauce

2009-09-07T20:54:00.000-07:00

Today, instead of cheering my team on, at what I am sure was an awesome Labor Day bout, I was at work. Nothing is worse than spending a day doing lame tasks, when I know I could be screaming for my teammates with a bunch of bikers. Instead I was doing laundry, grading papers, and cleaning spilled soy sauce out of my fridge. Oh well it is my lame life that pays my dues so I can skate. At least tomorrow I can look forward to pulling up knee socks, lacing up my skates, and slamming my body into other women. Just seeing my skate bag puts a smile on my face. :)

Sunny D. Capitate

P.S. Check out a totally cheesy but fun roller derby song "Roller Derby Saved My Soul" by Uncle Leon and the Alibis

Dislocated Shoulder

2009-08-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

Here is some info for a Dislocated Shoulder

Dislocated Shoulder Treatment Tips -- powered by eHow.com

Fun Derby Video

2009-08-20T16:24:00.001-07:00

Holy Ribcage Batman

2009-08-19T18:37:00.001-07:00

I hate having an invisible injury. My ribcage is messed up and causing me a lot of pain, but no one can see it. This means no pity for me and everyone invariably hugs me really hard. Thanks to Urrkn' and the recruits for letting me skate with them while I heal up. Good luck to the Kung Fu Donnas this Saturday in Lincoln, Nebraska . Extra special luck to my travel team the Judo Janes . I know you will rock it out there. Knock a couple down for me.

2009-08-15T21:14:00.001-07:00

I would like to thank all the ladies who took their time and made it out to the car wash today. Even though the rain got the best of us, I had a great time dancing and holding up signs on the street. Maybe we should do this more often, and next time I'll fill up my gas tank before I go out.

Upcoming Event - Car Wash Fundraiser

2009-08-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

FOCO Girls Gone Derby will be having a car wash in Loveland to get our girls out to Lincoln, NE and play No Coast Derby Girls. So come out on SATURDAY (8/15) and get your ride squeaky clean by your favorite derby girls. Begins at 11am and goes on till 2pm. Car wash location is 2424 N. Lincoln ave. Loveland, CO (across from The Egg & I) Your donation will be gladly appreciated. Remember FOCO Girls Gone Derby is skater owned and operated and we couldn't skate without the support from our sponsors and fans.

Directions to Car Wash

Skate Drag

2009-08-10T18:32:00.001-07:00

I'm so sick of going through skate laces like underwear. This last week alone I had to replace the lace on my left skate 3 TIMES! Anyone else have this jacked up luck??? I tried sanding out the eyelets like I was told but I don't think that helped much. I use leather laces on my work boots and they have lasted me a good while even though sparks and hot metal fall on them throughout the day. However, I heard leather laces on skates break faster than the nylon ones we have. I will have to try them out anyway to test my theory. I've been doing my lace homework and I came across these Snakes! Laces by Old Kook. If worse comes to worse, I'll have to try these bad boys out!

PPDD All Stars & FoCo Girls Gone Derby

2009-08-09T11:44:00.001-07:00

How to stop on skates

2009-08-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

Trial and Error

2009-08-05T12:57:00.001-07:00

OK! so here's my third attempt of posting a blog on the FOCO Girls Gone Derby's Blog...
I hope it works... I have lots of thing to "Blog" about, my mind is always racing and for those of you that know me, I've always got something to say, or something to laugh about.

***Crosses Fingers***

P.S. I <3 this video

2009-08-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

Sorry to post two in a row, but I think this video is the freaking cutest.

Love,

Sunny D.

Practice, practice, practice

2009-08-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

Thursday is scrimmage night. I just made the Chanel Cartel in June, so scrimmaging is still pretty new to me. I really love scrimmaging, but I am still learning how to be an effective member of the team. I know it just takes practice to know when to hit, dodge, slow down, speed up etc, etc. It is challenging and exciting. The best part of last Thursday's scrimmage was jamming. That's right I was a jammer. I had a great time and it was EXHAUSTING. I don't know how you other ladies do it over and over again. I got hit down a lot, fell down a lot, and wasn't very good at getting through the pack. However, I really feel I learned a lot about what it is like to be a jammer I'm going to be hitting girls out of my jammers way and pushing her though as much as I can, because that is a tough job you ladies do.

Until next time,

Sunny D. Capitate

Roller Derby Revival Video

2009-07-31T16:36:00.000-07:00

Logo Design Contest

2009-07-27T13:37:00.000-07:00

That's right all you artsy-derby lovers!

We want you to design the sweetest derby logo in existence for your very own FoCo Girls Gone Derby. We are looking for your original design, or new rendition of our existing logo, to plaster on posters, handbills, t-shirts, buttons and everything FoCo!

And what do you get in return? Well, aside from fortune, fame and the undying adoration of the FoCo Girls Gone Derby, you'll receive a Weblink, recognition in the 2010 FCGGD Programs, a 2010 VIP Season Ticket and a sweet swag bag of Derby merch featuring your design.

***OFFICIAL RULES***
1. All artwork submitted must be original and may not compromise the copyright of any previously published piece or other derby league's logo.
2. All artwork must be submitted by Nov. 2.
3. Number of entries is unlimited.
4. Entries must incorporate the text "FoCo Girls Gone Derby".
5. Entries may be submitted via email to winnie_chester_270@yahoo.com. Emails should not exceed 8MB. Zipped/Compressed files are acceptable. Submissions on CDs will be accepted, however, CD will not be returned.
6. Vector-based entries are preferred, however entries may be submitted in the following formats: .EPS .AI(CS3 or Below) .PSD .PDF .JPG .TIF
7. Entries must include artist's name, phone number and email address.
8. Upon entry in to the FoCo Girls Gone Derby Logo Redesign Contest, artist agrees to allow FoCo Girls Gone Derby to reproduce/display logos for contest promotional purposes.
9. Winner of the FoCo Girls Gone Derby Logo Redesign Contest agrees to allow FoCo Girls Gone Derby unlimited use/reproduction rights of the winning logo for FoCo Girls Gone Derby promotional purposes.

******JUDGING
Submissions will be judged by FoCo Girls Gone Derby. After an intial round performed by the PR Committee, submissions will be voted on by the entire league.

******TIPS FOR SUCCESS:
1. If you are new to the concept of Roller Derby, take a look at what other leagues across the nation have used to visually represent themselves. Get inspired, but don't steal.
2. Keep in mind that this logo will be screen printed, embroidered, spray painted (maybe even tattooed?) on everything that is FCGGD. We need something that will look fabulous whether it measures 1 inch (buttons) or 3 feet (banners).
3. An un-official survey of the skaters found that a circular logo was favored. But don't feel confined to one shape, you're the art-genius, dazzle us with your vision!
4. Tough, Sexy, Athletic, Hard-Core, all good words to describe the logo we are looking for. If you are feeling creatively blocked, ask a rollergirl. We're happy to wax poetically about Roller Derby, in fact some of us can't stop.
5. Feel free to capitalize on our existing logo, since she is a sweet, sexy, sassy lil' gal. If you choose to offer a new rendition, please be sure to use her as your inspiration, but make it your original artwork.

Roller Derby

2009-07-23T10:46:00.001-07:00

Roller Derby

Shared via AddThis

Media Coverage - Loveland Reporter Herald 07/20/09

2009-07-20T12:28:00.000-07:00

‘Theater’ on wheels
Drama, competition, daring apparel all a part of area roller derby league

By Kathryn Dailey
Loveland Reporter-Herald

Lawyer, stay-at-home mom and art director may be their day jobs, but when the fishnets and roller skates come out, these women become the girls of roller derby.
“It’s kind of a theater. It’s a way to bring some more excitement, more drama to the sport,” said Lyons resident Brittany Strachan of the colorful, daring apparel donned by the skaters. Read the complete story here... LovelandFYI.com

Whip It! Trailer

2009-07-17T16:32:00.001-07:00

FOCO GIRLS GONE DERBY AND SLAUGHTERHOUSE DERBY GIRLS

2009-07-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

FOCO GIRLS GONE DERBY AND SLAUGHTERHOUSE DERBY GIRLS
Face off Sunday, July 19, in Northern Colorado’s first
ROLLER DERBY BORDER WAR
At the Budweiser Events Center
5290 Arena Circle, Loveland
Bout begins at 3 p.m.

It’s no secret there’s been some bad blood between Fort Collins’ Girls Gone Derby and Greeley’s Slaughterhouse Derby Girls, but despite their bitter history, Northern Colorado’s two roller derby leagues can agree on one thing – playing a tough but sportswoman-like competition for their fans. This grudge match is not to be missed.

FoCo Girls Gone Derby is certified by roller derby’s official national governing board, the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (W.F.T.D.A.). The league donates a portion of the proceeds from each bout to a worthy cause. Habitat for Humanity will benefit from the July 19 bout. As part of FCGGD’s contribution, a “Derby Girl for a Day” prize package was auctioned off at the annual Hard Hat, Black Tie Gala for Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity on June 6. Winner Jenny Florez and her friend Shannon Hein will be honorary derby girls for a day and will participate behind the scenes at this bout. They will be photographed with the skaters, receive autographed merchandise and hang with the team on the bench and at the afterparty.

Tickets for all ages are $10 in advance and $15 the day of the bout. They can be purchased at the Budweiser Events Center box office and www.BrownPaperTickets.com.

For more information, visit:
www.focogirlsgonederby.com.

I love this - Evian Commercial

2009-07-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

End of Derby Vacation

2009-07-06T09:11:00.000-07:00

Whew! Although we may have had a bit of a break from practice, derby has not been in the background for most of us. We are getting ready to host the Greeley Slaughterhouse girls at the Budweiser Events Center on Sunday, July 19, 2009. With the bout being in a different venue, on a different day and in the afternoon rather than our usual Saturday night bouts at Roller Land, this has presented a challenge for quite a few of us. But, we are derby! No challenge is too big for us! It's shaping up to be a great bout with some great sponsors contributing and the FoCo Girls Gone Derby working their little booties off to ensure our fans will have a great afternoon! Although we are still finalizing our halftime entertainment, it promises to be fan interactive and just as entertaining as the bout itself. After the bout, look for your favorite derby girls from both FoCo and Slaughterhouse to sign autographs and answer any derby questions you fans might have. Also, keep your eyes peeled during the bout for our Derby Ambassadors who will be available to answer questions and help explain the rules.

Keep checking back for the after party info! Love and Skate, babies!

~Mary Queen O' Shots

Roller Derby is Awesome!

2009-07-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

After only one month as a recruit, I'm addicted. Every bruised bone & muscle is my own private merit badge. Whisper "wanna go skate?" and I'm out the door. I knew I'd like it, but I didn't know how MUCH I'd like it! I am paying money to be physically abused several times a week, and I couldn't be happier about it. Someone told me derby would take over my life, and I can see why. I'm looking forward to helping the league off the track in whatever job they need me in. I'm skating with a great group of women, and I'm just talking about the recruits - I hardly know the "big girls" yet (but can't wait to be one of them!) Interested? You don't have to know how to skate - I didn't. It's amazing what our coach has done for me in so little time. Not that I've suddenly become a great skater, but I went from barely being able to propel myself around the track to being able to at least look like I have a clue as to what I'm doing. I can cross! I can fall and immediately get back up and keep skating (OK, most of the time)! Thanks, Coach :)
NoNameYet!

Roller Derby Border Wars July 19, 2009 at the Budweiser Events Center

2009-07-03T10:59:00.000-07:00

JR Roller Derby

2009-07-03T10:48:00.001-07:00

Poison Divey here - My daughter just started Jr Roller Derby in Greeley. She loves it... they are just working on skating skills and have a very small handful of girls. You can even join before you own your skates & pad. You will just work on floor exercises to build your skating muscles.

Here are the details:

Our Jr League ages are 9 to 17, with no other requirements. The girls don't hit, but we will teach them blocking and falls. As they get older, however, we will work on their hitting so they can transition into the adult league.

Girls can come on any Wednesday from 6 to 8, and new girls can start any time. I request that all girls bring tennis shoes, especially new girls, that way we can work on off skate drills and get their muscles ready for skates. If they are comfortable on skates, they can work with the girls that are already skating.

This all takes place at the Kill Floor in Greeley, Home of Slaughterhouse Derby Girls.

Rational Alchemy - KRFC radio show with FOCO Girls Gone Derby

2009-06-09T17:56:00.001-07:00

Kelly Ashwill Check out this week's podcast of the krfc Saturday night radio show, Rational Alchemy http://rational-alchemy.com/rational-alchemy-home-page Brian and Jamie were kind enough to invite The Reverend Jimmie James, P.h.Diva and Mary Queen of Shots to come on the show and clear up some common misconceptions about roller derby. Thank you, Rational Alchemy!

Rational Alchemy : Blogs, Musings and News
Source: rational-alchemy.com
Rational Alchemy providing a community for questioning some of the ludicrous (and some times highly questionable) claims we hear today. Rational Alchemy is the brain child of Brian Walsh, Nigel Aves and Jamie Folsom. The show airs every Saturday evening at 11:00 PM to Midnight.

FoCo’s Death Row Dolls and Chanel Cartel bout June 13, 2009

2009-06-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

FoCo’s Death Row Dolls and Chanel Cartel
are Refueled and Ready to Rumble
FoCo Girls Gone Derby, Northern Colorado’s foremost roller derby league, will bout
Saturday, June 13
at Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins
Doors open at 6 p.m., bout begins at 7

FoCo Girls Gone Derby’s last bout on May 9 was a close one, with your two hometown teams, Chanel Cartel and Death Row Dolls, duking it out for domination. Death Row took the lead early and didn’t let up, with Chanel Cartel hot on their heels the entire bout. In the end, the Death Row Dolls pulled ahead with a 115-102 win.

That’s how we roll at FoCo. Your hometown teams are evenly matched in skill and strength, but each has its unique assets and cast of characters. Each bout presents a new line-up as veteran skaters are benched with injuries and new recruits join the ranks. Strategy is constantly evolving as the teams adapt new tactics to pummel the opponent. No plays are ever duplicated, and no two bouts are the same. All of this makes every match a must-see and entertaining event for our fans.

For your added enjoyment, FCGGD features halftime entertainment and beer for sale at every bout. Fort Collins band The Piggies will rock the June 13 bout. And fans are welcome to join us at the Aggie Theater for our afterparty on June 13 with bands The Photo Atlas and Ten Timers.

Choose a team to rally behind, or just cheer for the girl with the dirtiest derby name. Every FoCo Girls Gone Derby bout is guaranteed to be a good time.

Entry is $10 for presale tickets and $15 for tickets purchased at the door. Students receive a reduced rate of $7 with a current student ID. Ages 10 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, The Bean Cycle coffee shop, any FCGGD Roller Girl or online at http://www.brownpaperticket.com/. Purchases also can be processed via phone at 1-800-838-3006.

**Wanna get involved with the girls of FCGGD?**
For information about recruitment, refereeing, sponsorship, or volunteer opportunities visit: http://www.focogirlsgonederby.com/

**NOTE: Members of both teams are available for interviews. Tickets are also available as promotional give-aways during interviews.

Skating as a kid...

2009-05-31T22:53:00.001-07:00

Hello Poison Divey here...

I have said many times "who knew skating every weekend as a kid would ever come in handy again". Knowing how to skate pretty well has helped with my confidence & just busting through the first part of training, but really its coming back to haunt me. I never joined speed skating or anything, just could skate backwards and rock out to Another One Bites the Dust & a some YMCA. Toe stops... is the huge down fall I'm feeling. I have this elementary school years trained instinct to go onto the damn toe stop. Its hard & I still feel super new to Derby. No matter how many times I tell myself to stop doing it, I concentrate on something & it sneaks back in. damn it. I'll get it. I just wish I could get it all so much quicker. (Problem with toe stops is that my balance is not very sturdy & anyone can just knock me over, I'm balanced on a little piece of rubber)

Going through training I was super confident - I had it down... I skated so much in elementary and can ride a skateboard in the bowls well enough (I got falling DOWN). But when you start skating in a pack, there is so much to think about, so many skills to develop all at once - so many dynamics. I find myself focusing in on one thing I need to get down & forget the other 3. I know it will come in time.. but its frustrating & I know its frustrating to the coaches (coaches are like " I told you not to use your toe stops anymore Divey"), like I'm not getting it. But DAMN, if you could witness my the visions in my head when I'm trying to fall asleep. I get it all down. Actually, I think that helps. Just having those visions of everything falling in place. I used to skate bowls the same way, finding those lines... ummm. Doesn't make for a good night sleep.

I truly admire all the ladies that have stuck through all these challenges and I plan to do the same. Derby has seemed to consume much more than I planned of my life & I'm happy here. I don't want to do derby, just so I can say I'm one of those rocking derby girls I want to be really good at it, at every position. I am so happy I have urrkn pushing me. I also feel so lucky to have such a huge variety of new friends.

I went all over the place with this post, I meant to just talk about my toe stops coming back to bite me in the ass, but so happy that I can put some muscle into my crosses. Having my early skating experience has helped me a lot, but there is so much more than skating involved. I've always been really hard on myself & its not low self confidence, its that I don't want to kid myself & think that I am good at something when there is so much I need to improve on. Its hard going through the learning curve & not rocking at something... but it will be worth it. I will rock... for those about to rock - we salute you. ha. not sure how an AC/DC song floated into this post, but there you are...

Divey #34A
FOCO Girls Gone Derby

RollerCon 2009 - Vegas

2009-05-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

I would like to go to this - with someone from around here.. (northern colorado) - who's down?

RollerCon 2009
JULY 29th through AUGUST 2ndThe biggest improvements in RollerCon for 2009 are going to affect those skaters who attend for the skating events.

Date
From July 29, 2009 9:00 AM

Until August 02, 2009 12:00 AM

Location
Imperial Palace3535 Las Vegas BlvdLas Vegas, NV

MVP Pass$250.21

Skater Pass$175.46

Spactator Pass$175.46 Notes

Poison Divey - 34A

Northern Colorado's Premier Roller Derby League - Home Bout

2009-05-03T15:13:00.000-07:00

FoCo’s Death Row Dolls and Chanel Cartel
are back for the Ultimate Grudge Match!

FoCo Girls Gone Derby, Northern Colorado’s foremost roller derby league, will bout
Saturday, May 9 at Rollerland Skate Center, 324 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins
Doors open at 6 p.m., bout begins at 7

After a highly controversial outcome to the Season Opener in March, FoCo Girls Gone Derby are back for the ultimate grudge match between your two hometown teams, Chanel Cartel and Death Row Dolls.

FoCo’s derby season started with a smash. Having led most of the bout, Chanel Cartel was ahead as the clock wound down. In a nail-biting finale, the refs decided to hold one last jam in which Death Row managed to rack up enough points to win… or did they?

The final score has been hotly contested by the teams, but they are willing to settle the matter civilly – through hip checks – at the upcoming bout. No hard feelings, just hard hits.

FoCo Girls Gone Derby roller girls will participate in Walk MS at Loveland/Centerra on Saturday, May 9, and a portion of the proceeds from this bout will go to the National MS Society.

Entry is $10 for presale tickets and $15 for tickets purchased at the door. Students receive a reduced rate of $7 with a current, valid student ID. Ages 10 and under get in free. Tickets can be purchased through the Rollerland Skate Center ticket booth, The Bean Cycle, any FCGGD Roller Girl or online at the official FCGGD Web site http://www.focogirlsgonederby.com/ or at http://www.brownpaperticket.com/. Purchases also can be processed via phone at 1-800-838-3006.

**Wanna get involved with the girls of FCGGD?**
For information about recruitment, refereeing, sponsorship, or volunteer opportunities visit: http://www.focogirlsgonederby.com/

**NOTE: Members of both teams are available for interviews. Tickets are also available as promotional give-aways during interviews.

2009-03-22T22:15:00.000-07:00

this is mangles at salt lake, ...... black mail!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
plus some bruises, .... ha!

to the guys who...

2009-03-21T19:03:00.000-07:00

me [iggy cocks] and barbie crash were out last night and met some fine gentlemen who were down to have us paint foco girls gone derby on the chests for out next bout so i wanted to put out there that anyone who would want to do that should message us on myspace and we'll give you free comp tickets and buy you a beer cuz that would be awesome!

Danger Ranger, ... Season Opener Afterparty

2009-03-19T23:02:00.001-07:00

erica, laura mangles wilder

sequin destroy, iggy cocks

mia krush her, urkin jerkin, yoshi twisted

iggy cocks, buster hiney, mia krush her, laura mangles wilder, barbie crash, hand solo

tammy fay slayer

mary queen of shots, sexy q, battle e portman

mia krush her, llbruisa peach

dizzy lizzy, box watcher, iona switchblade

winnie chester, .... stripping

sexy qutioner, battle e portman

mia krush her, iggy cocks, hand solo, buster hiney

Our First WFTDA Ranking Bout!!!

2009-03-18T15:43:00.000-07:00

For anyone who doesn't know, we got WFTDA [Womens Flat Track Derby Association] approved which is rad and on April 4th we have our first ranking bout against Pikes Peak Derby Dames. So this is big! Here's the flyer, put it everywhere!!