The Scream Team

Devon Clotted Screamers Roller Derby Team, a.k.a the Screamers, are a team based in North Devon. We formed in July 2012 with only a core of 5 inexperienced skaters and a determined coach, but even in those few short eventful months we have made a lot of progress.

After initially taking up skating as a fun way to get a bit fitter, it soon become clear that the addiction had well and truly taken hold and toller derby was the way forward. So from just wanting "a nice skate round" become a necessity to get our fix of "grrrrrr!",  It didn't take long before you would often hear, "anyone skating? I need to skate!".

We now have a fantastic team of confident and enthusiastic ladies, and a few brave men, from all walks of life and all ages ready to be unleased into the derby world. It has to be said we also have some very forgiving families, who not only put up with the stench of the pads and dismantled skates everywhere but all that dodgy legwear too. It is our aim that in the not too distant future we will be bouting and able to put on a game to remember so out derby widowers and orphans and everyone else can see what all those hours of training are actually for.

We are lucky (yes we are Screamers!) to have as our coach an almost-tame marine, who delights in working us extremely hard and always tries to get the best out of us, although he does love any excuse to make us do extra press-ups or squats. Weirdly enough though, the tougher the session, the more enjoyable it becomes and its surprising how many of us now enjoy the press-ups so good for keeping those bingo wings at bay! 

Through going to see bouts as a team (we love any excuse for a road trip) we've realised that positivity in derby is a must and have already made some great progress and good friends. we've been very lucky to have had more experienced skaters come and train us and share their knowledge. This is an aspect we are keen to build on, all advice is gratefully received and swiftly put into practice.

We pride ourselves in being a friendly and welcoming team, not only learning the sport of derby but having a laugh too. After all, some of the things you find yourself doing mean you definitely need a sense of humour. To be a Screamer it is vital to have a sense of humour- just ask the derby wife!

So if you are ever holidaying down in North Devon and you need a fix of skating you are more than welcome, in fact you are ordered to come and look us up and join us for a skate.

Words: Team Captain Sarah Coxy & I Know It