Siv Kristin Stakkestad

from People by PostNord 1_2022 English

Nathalie Malmsten

MY SPOT/ THE SPORTS HALL, AMALIE SKRAM SCHOOL OF FURTHER EDUCATION, BERGEN, NORWAY

“I know every inch of our track”

“IT’S BEEN tougher to get going again after the pandemic. I’ve felt a bit run down ... I don’t know why. The team trains Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. I’m heading over there right after work today. My workday actually ends at seven in the evening, which is also when practice starts. But we help each other out at work, and created a schedule so that I can make it there on time.

When I arrive at the hall, I put on my equipment and start to skate. My body gradually warms up, and all of a sudden I’m up and running ... all the exhaustion melts away. I’ve never regretted going, even when I’ve almost had to force myself out of the door. It’s the adrenaline kick I get when I’ve mastered a new move, and the camaraderie as well. I get a real boost from being with the others on the team. A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE SEEN roller derby in the movie, ”Whip it”. The sport is often portrayed as a lot more violent than it actually is, but what annoys me the most is that the players come across as mean and nasty. Roller derby is the most inclusive sport I’ve ever experienced. Everyone is welcome. There are people here of all ages, shapes and sizes. Soccer moms, students, project managers, graphic designers and shop assistants. I don’t only take part in roller derby, I’m a referee too. I’ve refereed games all over Europe and it’s the same everywhere. The opponents give each other a hug before and after the games, and everyone is quick to compliment one another.

IN MARCH 2022, my team, The Wet City Rollers, is organizing the Norweigan roller derby Championships. I know every inch of our home track. We have the perfect floor, it’s smooth and even, and polished just enough to let you do both tricks and skids, but I’ll be so nervous. With all the excitement building up I get butterflies. But once the signal sounds, it goes away and everything feels fantastic.”