Derby names "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other would smell as sweet." Who has them? Why do they have them? What do they mean? So many questions, so many answers. When we decided to start Roller Derby I wasn't aware of the focus placed on each players name, then as I started to get into it and learn more about the sport and the history I learnt that the names become part of the chase, part of the prize. So,"who has them?" Well everyone has one, some tough sounding others softer, but all of them have a connection to their owner even if only that the name sounds cool. The reason 'why they have them' is perhaps a throw back to when Roller Derby was more theatrical and sports entertainment that a full contact sport, this legacy has continued and now they are worn as a badge of honour, a part of your armour. Lastly 'what do they mean', this is perhaps the most important of all. Well they mean something different to each player, some are chosen and some are given, my newly adopted name "Wrecking Paul" is obviously a play on my name and a popular Miley Cyrus song. I didn't come up with it, but I seem to remember one of my skate coaches calling it out at me while we were practicing pacelines and whilst I was trying not to knock all the other freshmeat out like a wrecking ball..... (Unintentionally I might add). I love the names, they are fun and part of the process, they tell a story. They are a rebirth if you like, an evolution of us. Bipedal animal to bipedal badass gliding through on 8 wheels. For some they are a persona of confidence and an empowering choice. In a world where we have lots of choice but everyone seems to be a clone of the next person, the Derby Name is your own. And either you own it, or it owns you. #rollerderby #rollerderbylife #derbydude #rollerskates #derbynames #prism

It's official! I shall henceforth be known as "Flourish & Blocks", or "Flourish" for short! 😄😄😄🎉🎉 #rollerderby #derbynames #soexcitedomg

This guy is biting my style. We all know I’m the real speeder parker.

Just gonna run it by my captain tonight, and I'll officially announce it when I get the okay! :D