three times per week at the Armory, and their coach, Scott Herman, is the husband of skater Mason Herman and a former speedskater who has taken it upon himself to learn the sport of roller derby, seeking out advice and strategy from other coaches in the region. “He’s really helped us out a whole lot,” said Jordyn. “Not only are we skaters getting better…he’s had to learn derby. We have a coach who’s putting in probably more time than us. He’s only a volunteer. Truthfully, I don’t know what we’d do without him.” At practice, the team builds endurance by skating uninterrupted for long periods of time, and the skaters do drills to improve footwork. They practice hitting, as well as taking hits. “The sport itself is extremely physical. You’re constantly making contact with other people,” Megan explained. “We encourage all the girls to work out on their own.” Though both have their advantages, skaters don’t necessarily have to be big or fast—roller derby is also about strategy. “We’re a much smaller team than the majority of teams that we’ve played, but we use our speed to our advantage,” said Megan. For those looking to try derby for the
“We’re a new team in a small town making a wave in derby.”
~ Jennifer Pillow, aka Rolli Cannoli
first time, there’s Fresh Meat, a gradual training regimen of at least 12 weeks. “We don’t throw somebody on the track—we have a training program,” Jor-
dyn explained. And in this tough sport, the first thing new skaters must learn is safety techniques—for example, how to “fall small,” which is falling with arms
2010 REALTOR Of The Year. “I believe that the key to achieving the level of success my family and I have enjoyed while living in the High Country for more that 25 years is a matter of priorities. As a Realtor, Quality Customer Service is my #1 priority. My goal is to consistently exceed my customer’s expectations. Whether you or someone you know wants to ‘Buy or Sell’ real estate I look forward to putting my experience, fairness, honesty, and marketing skills to work for you.” As we say here in the mountains, COME SEE US!
John Volpe
REALTOR/Broker Cell: 828-265-6746 • Office: 828-264-4522 Email: johnvolpe@boone.net 589 West King Street • Boone, NC 28607 July 2011
High Country Magazine
59