User:Derbylady/Rocketeer Rollers

The Rocketeer Rollers are a skater-run womens flat-track roller derby team based in Santa Maria, CA. Founded in 2010, the league has a focus on the athletic aspect of the sport along with the freedom of the alternative cultural influence.

The team is made up of a variety of women with various backgrounds and stories. In the words of one of the original members, Mizz LadyDozer: "I would encourage people not to be too judgmental,” she said. “It’s a real sport, it’s really hard, and we’re absolutely like the girl next door—moms and teachers. Everybody knows somebody who would fit in our roller derby league."

Designators

 * Rocketeer Rollers: The core skaters and overall team name.
 * Whistleers: The referees and Non-Skating Officials (NSOs)
 * Model Rockets: The currently-forming junior team (ages 10-17)

League Status
The team filed for non-profit status in January 2010 and has a Board of Directors made up of skating members of the league. The league is ran by the skaters with decisions made by committee. The Rocketeer Rollers strive to support non-profit organizations in the Santa Maria Valley and surrounding areas. The team puts a heavy emphasis on their volunteer work and community involvement.

At this time, the league is made up of one interleague team and practices at the Central Coast Sports Arena in Santa Maria, CA.

Background
In October 2010, a small group of skaters from a defunct league in the area assembled to discuss their future in the sport of roller derby. The skaters dubbed themselves the "Homeless Roller Derby" league until they could establish a team identity and home.

In January 2011, the team assembled once again and voted for their new league name as the "Rocketeer Rollers." The name's influence lies with the local area's distinction as the home of Vandenberg AFB which features many launches throughout the year. The team also chose their team colors of military green and neon orange.