Potential. That’s the word used to describe the Pottstown Roller Derby Rockstars by its president and head coach Tamrin “Splinch” Jenison.
“We used to be 50 skaters strong,” said Jenison, estimating that there are about 22 women active in league this season.
This is Jenison’s fifth season with PRDR – she’s one of the only skaters still active in the league since its start in 2010. She was unanimously voted in to lead the league this year.
“[Roller derby is] empowering-self-empowering,” she said. “The reason I started was to give me something for myself; a lot of the other women join for the same reason.”
Throughout the years, though, she says things have changed. “We lost something unnamed,” she added. “There was a sense of sisterhood-we got away from that and are trying to fix that.”
“We’re taking a step back to move forward,” said Jenison. “I see potential.” She explained how the league has become increasingly competitive over the years – something they’re trying to tone down a bit, “…from a competitive league to something for these women.”
Jension speaks from prior experience of coaching PRDR’s intraleague and the Fresh Meat program last season.
“With Fresh Meat-we had the goal to make skaters feel they are a part of something, and we’re bringing that to the league. League skaters need to embrace and put themselves out there. People have to feel like they’re a part of something.” She also referenced the Big Sister program, which connects league players with league players-promoting communication and relationships between the two.
She says her expectation is “that you give me everything you have; there should be passion behind it. Passionate skaters make great team-mates.”
She noted how everyone on the league has been supportive since she took on the role of head coach.
“[I was] nervous about it; it’s important,” she said. “It’s a business as well as a sport.” She noted the importance of community presence.
During the practice, Jenison could be heard telling skaters to “learn from every mistake you make.”
The league is now on the verge of competing. The 2015 Home Bout schedule has been announced and includes the follow dates: April 11, May 2, June 6, July 11, Sept. 12, Oct. 3. Bouts are held at the 422 Sports Complex in Pottstown.
