PRAIRIELAND PUNISHERS BACKGROUND The Prairieland Punishers was established in 2011 as an Illinois Not-for-Profit organization to create a competitive, full-contact women's flat track roller derby team that operates under the official rules and sanctions of the Women's Flat Track Roller Derby Association (WFTDA). MISSION The mission of the Prairieland Punishers is to provide an opportunity for women to learn, compete, and promote women's flat track roller derby in Central Illinois. This all-female athletic team is focused on promoting health, wellness, fitness, training, competition self-growth, community outreach, and sisterhood. We place a high value on personal character, community involvement, and dedication to our sport. The Prairieland Punishers does not discriminate based on race, sexual orientation, religion, political background, or personal views. PRAIRIELAND PUNISHER ALL-STARS 1/31 Paper Valley 2/28 Fox Cityz 3/28 HOME 4/25 Midstate Sisters 5/9 HOME 6/20 Cape 6/27 Tiny Town 8/15 HOME 9/12 Springfield MO Rollergirls 9/26 HOME 11/22 Cedar Rapids WFTDA Status: Apprentice League PRAIRIELAND PUNISHERS BACKLASH 3/28 HOME 4/18 Dubuque 5/9 HOME 6/20 Cape 8/15 HOME 9/26 HOME 10/18 Lafayette 2015 SCHEDULE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Who can join? Any one over the age of 18. Derby is a sport that appreciates women of all shapes, sizes, and athletic ability. We have skaters of all ages, all levels of skating experience, and a wide variety of professions. Men can also play roller derby with the Capital City Hooligans, who hold practices in Decatur as well. Do I need to know how to skate? NO! We can teach you how to skate and build on any skating ability that you already have but practicing at the local skating rink is highly encouraged. Will I get hurt? As with any contact sport, you can get hurt. We teach you how to skate and fall safely on your first night. For your first few weeks, you will be taught the basics of skating and derby, as well as considered a non-contact skater-which means that you won't be expected to be hit (hip, shoulder or full body checks) or hit other skaters. What gear do I need? For the first few practices, you can borrow skates and protective gear. Every skater is expected to have a mouth guard. For roller derby, quad skates are required (not in-line or rollerblades), but preferences of skates and gear can vary. The protective gear includes a mouth guard, helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads. What do I need to bring on my first night? Come in athletic clothing that is comfortable and supportive. Bring a positive attitude and a willingness to learn derby. What is Fresh Meat? Fresh Meat is a term used for a new skater to derby. Fresh Meat is a period of time (usually 8 to 12 weeks) where you are training to be a derby player and to pass the minimum skills test. What is the minimum skills test? The Women's Flat Track Derby Association has a minimum skills test for skaters that they must pass before they are bout eligible. You can find the minimum skills test here: http://wftda.com/resources/wftda-minimum-skill-requirements.pdf Where can I buy skates? Online is where most of us purchase skates. You can find your size out when you attend an open skate and rent their speed skates. Look for fresh meat package deals at http://www.fastqirlskates.com/ or other online shops. How much does it cost to play roller derby? Roller derby can be an expensive sport when you first get started. You'll need to purchase skates, protective gear and pay monthly dues. Dues are $35 a month. Gear can range anywhere from $200-$500 for a low to mid-grade setup.
PRACTICE Fresh Meat practices are usually held on the weekends at the Punisher Palace provided the weather is good and a captain can lead the practice. These messages are communicated through the Facebook group called "Punisher's New Bruisers." Leauge practices are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00-9:30pm. Punisher Palace E 2nd Progress St Decatur, IL 62521 E Mound Rd E Mound Rd E 1 0th Progress St E 9th Progress St OJ 2 v, :::r () Q. ro "'.. :D a. z,, ;. v, c: n> I 0 t t a. University of Illinois Extension @ z ::;;,, E 8th Progress St E 7th Progress St E 6th Progress St E 5th Progress St.g E 4th Progress St *! E 3rd ess St E 2nd Pr gress St E 1st Progress St * ""! ATM A1II Co!Je ge p ilrfr OJ @ Richland Community College Richland Community @ College Bookstore Google Reas Bridge Rd For more information log onto punishersderby.com and find us on Facebook.
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