El Paso Roller Derby wrapped up its season on Oct. 17, with a game against Albuquerque and Gold Rush, a traveling group that brings skaters together from different areas to compete. El Paso Roller Derby gives back to the community every game, and for their season closure, they supported Stand with Estella.
The first game, played by the Pistol WhipHers against Alburquerque, ended in a loss, 96-320. After a grueling first game, the second game played by the Pistoleros against Texas Gold Rush ended in a win, 332-19. Both games were difficult for the derby skaters, but also exciting as some Pistol WhipHers got to support their fellow skaters in the second game.
The unfamiliar opponents presented an opportunity for derby skaters to test their skills, adjust their strategies and finish the season on the track.
Despite the competitive atmosphere, derby skaters Adrenalynn and Foxfyr said having fun and supporting one another remained central to the sport. They approach games with a mix of nervousness and excitement. Both emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, regardless of the final score.
“We tell jokes, we laugh, we tell each other what we’re doing good, we correct mistakes when we see it, but we never let it get too serious,” Foxfyre said.
The team practices approximately seven hours a week at Tobin, preparing physically and mentally for competition. Skaters say positive self-talk and encouragement help them remain focused while avoiding the pressure of putting too much emphasis on winning.
On the track, the sport requires complete attention. Facing new teams can be particularly challenging because skaters are less familiar with their opponents’ playing styles and tactics. Rather than relying entirely on preparation, skaters observe their opponents during each jam, adjusting as the game progresses.
“I feel like it’s just kind of like nothing to it, but to do it,” Adrenalynn said. “You just get on there and then you kind of start saying, okay, that guy likes to jump around a lot, or this person likes to really do this or hold people in this way. So, once you get on there, you start really evaluating.”
Coaches also play an important role in identifying patterns and communicating changes from the sidelines.
“You can get, like, laser focused on what’s happening in front of you and, like, it’s kind of tunnel vision, but that’s where we rely on our coaches a lot,” Foxfyre said. “Our coaches are by the bench. They see what you’re doing, they see what they’re doing, and it’s important to be able to listen to them on the track and off the track.”
Adrenalynn skated for both the Pistol WhipHers and Pistoleros, experiencing a loss and a win for the night. She says playing on both teams is tiring but fulfilling because she feels that she gave her all to the game.
Both skaters say they hope the audience left the game with a deeper appreciation for the sport. They stressed that roller derby is a genuine contact sport, with wins and losses and that its physical demands are an important part of the experience.
Crowd reactions to big hits, jumps and close battles on the track can energize the players, creating a connection between skaters and fans. The team said it is especially rewarding when first-time spectators return for future games, or young fans approach skaters for autographs.
“Yeah, it feels you start to feel like an inspiration to them almost,” Adrenalynn said. “Yeah. And we do so many community events, like community state nights, back to school, learn to skate, things for kids and adults, that you start seeing some of the same faces in the stands and at the events, and it just feels very close.”
Those connections help build a sense of belonging that extends beyond the rink, with familiar faces appearing at both community events and games.
While their season is over, the teams don’t stop working; they practice and encourage others to get involved in their organization.
El Paso Roller Derby is having a new member intake for people interested in learning about roller derby on Oct. 21 at Nations Tobin Park.
Kayla Rodriguez is a staff reporter and may be reached at [email protected]