So yesterday was incredible! I don't think I've enjoyed a day that much for a long time. It was incredible to watch the first game but I also had a lot of nerves building up, at half time we got on track to have a little skate and it really helped the nerves to go down. Suffolk were absolutely terrifying to play, they were all a lot bigger and obviously more experienced than I was. I was determined to just give it a go and have fun and that is exactly what I did. The team were all stronger than us and we only ended up with 15 points, but at the end of the day we were aiming for double points. I loved how we played and how we all cheered each other on. The team were so tough I ended up hitting the floor multiple times and even ended up with a skate to the head (but hey that's what a helmet is for!) At the end of the day I stood up and carried on. The after party was also amazing good chats with team mates and a great band. And the awards. Best blocker going to revengeneer, best MVP going to fright nurse, most fearsome to trixie blitz(I can't remember the rest) but what I wasn't expecting to get best derby spirit. I honestly wasn't expecting anything but it gave me a huge smile. So many people told me that they still remember the day that a small emo kid showed up hidden behind her fringe and didn't really speak to anyone. That small shy person then turned around to eventually gain self confidence, cut her hair and build up a name for herself. In fact I was told by one member she uses it as a little success story that makes her proud. So many people told me how proud they were that I managed to come so strong. And it makes me happy to think this because the only reason I joined roller derby was so I could meet new people and make friends and over come some of my anxiety. I love that FMRD have managed to make my life a lot better and I love every member there because they all build up that bit of pride I have for myself. Huge thank you to our coaches hound and 404, team captain and vice captain fright nurse and trixie blitz, the refs, NSO's, Suffolk roller derby, Bourne bombshells, kills hurts roller derby and FMRD for making this day amazing! I can't wait for the next one.