blog

April 21: Comcast Cares

cc.derby — Wed, 02 May 2012 19:19:25 +0000

Comcast, every year selects a public place to be beautified. They donate volunteers, supplies, and monies to complete the project. This year MacArthur Elementary, one of Las Cruces' lowest income schools celebrating it's 70th anniversary was selected to receive the award. Crossroads City Derby was asked to participate in this great event. Every volunteer received a free t-shirt, breakfast, and lunch from local restaurants. As derby girls and members of the community, we were more than happy to help at this event. We pulled weeds, painted walls, picked rubber tire chips out of the playground, etc. We also were asked to demonstrate to the community what Roller Derby is all about.

As we geared up in the hot sun on the outside basketball court, we received an introduction by the school principal Carla Rodriguez, and the audience was given a play by play of the demonstration by our very own Coach Bombshell. I remember looking up at one point and seeing the entire basketball court surrounded by the volunteers watching us, even as hot as it was on that concrete, and it drove us to play even harder. Teachers, students, community members, City board members, parents, etc., were all cheering us on as we played a simple black and white scrimmage. It was an honor to play for the community and to participate in such a huge event that drew in over 1,000 volunteers to beautify a school that services kids from such diverse backgrounds. To top off the day, we got to watch our very own Choni Chaser don her Mariachi gear as her Mariachi group performed for the community. This was another great event that allowed us to see a great community come together for a great cause.

-Hearno Evil, #2

April 7: Spring Fest 2012

cc.derby — Wed, 02 May 2012 19:12:59 +0000

Vendors, egg hunting, candy eating, picture taking, bubble blowing, face painting, hair chalking, music playing, food eating, rollercoasters rolling, children laughing, family bonding, occurred this year again during the Spring Fest at Young's park; our second Annual participation as volunteers. We were able to "Derby it up" and skate around Young Park, passing out vendor maps, water to the hard working vendors, answer questions about Derby, help people find their destinations at the park, and more importantly we were put in charge of manning the parking lot. This definitely gave us much MORE love and appreciation to our law enforcement for directing traffic. We may play roller derby but directing traffic is hardcore!

Our brave Derby girls directed traffic as parking lots became full, and rolled out into the streets to stop oncoming cars to help families cross the street safely to attend the event. Its always great to see the community so involved with one another at a large, city wide event, spending time with their families, out in the fresh air, and little boys and girls smiling and waving at us as we roll by (sometimes the adults too!). Another great event CCD was able to be a part of, so hats off to you Las Cruces! See more pictures here.

-Hearno Evil, #2

April 1: 1st Annual Speech and Hearing Benefit Run

cc.derby — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 01:58:42 +0000

The dolls of Crossroads City Derby braved the Spring desert elements to support the 1^st Annual Speech and Hearing Benefit Run on April 1, 2012. The motorcycle run started at Barnett’s Harley Davidson and hit several locations around Las Cruces and one in Hatch to raise money for NMSU students in the Speech Department. Prizes for the riders were provided by Barnett’s.

The ladies of Crossroads City Derby welcomed riders at Ump 88, which was one stop along the route. Other stops included Hooters, the Farm and Ranch Museum, Blue Moon and Sparky’s in Hatch, NM. The ladies braved the heat of sun to reach out to the motorcyclists and promote community awareness. In between turns at the check-in table, the derby dolls enjoyed refreshments from the kitchen of Ump 88, which is delicious.

CCD skaters took the opportunity to set up a booth on the sidewalk outside the restaurant. The CCD logo was proudly displayed on shirts and the ever-useful can koozie. Also featured was Sucias travel team gear and shirts with the logo of the newly created team, Las Santas. This provided proud Santas with an opportunity to promote their new team who are celebrating a, so-far, spotless record of 1-0. Yay, Santas!!

The ladies all enjoyed the day and bonding over food, music and sunburns. Some ladies donned skates and took their chances among rocks and asphalt in the parking lot. Says skater Cruces Criplher of the rather steep hills on either side of the pub/restaurant, “Daaaaaaang!”

Motorcycle riders in this inaugural event included CCD’s very own General Grant Slam, announcer Gonads O’Brian, Hearno Evil, Mr. H. Evil, Barbie Bombshell and Coach Bombshell. Apparently, our ladies of CCD are just as smokin’ hot in their leather as they are in fishnets.

Crossroads City Derby is pleased to have been included in the number of volunteers for this event. As a league formed strictly of volunteer skaters, Crossroads City Derby understands and values the time and effort of volunteers and is proud to serve the Las Cruces, NM community.

- Muñeca Mala, #9mm

March 18: Sucias at SARD Charmed Forces

cc.derby — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 23:13:31 +0000

It's been almost a year since I passed my minimum skills and became a full-fledged member of Crossroads City Derby. Since I joined I have had one goal: to become a Sucia. That moment finally happened in March and I was asked to join them on their first road trip of the season to bout with San Antonio’s Charmed Forces. It was such an exciting moment for me.

Road trip!

This wasn't my first road trip for derby, so I was excited because it had been a while and I had a blast the first time. We started out in a caravan but eventually lost the pack… which was fine, we ended up at our destination ahead of everyone else and had a lot of fun talking and goofing off on the way. Upon arrival we split into our respective rooms, made plans for dinner and relaxed for a little while. Coach D went over strategy during part of dinner with the girls near him and the rest of us talked and joked around with our awesome waiter. With dinner done we headed back to the hotel for lights out, well everyone except our room of gigglers who stayed up for at least an hour until we passed out one by one.

Bout day, yay!

A quick trip to the mall for fun things some of the girls wanted but couldn’t get back home, then lunch and back to the hotel to rest and get ready for the bout. So funny watching everyone get ready, it’s like a mass panic for rubber bands, hair spray and tights… comforting to know that you are not the only one of the group that has those pre-bout moments. Off to the venue we went - very exciting bout. I never paid attention to the score so when I saw the final tally I was blown away.

We did so well, it was an amazing feeling to come out with the win after weeks of practicing and worrying. All in all it was an amazing trip from the driving to the after party, I love the girls on my team and can’t wait for the rest of the bout trips this season.

-Vexin' Vixen, #X0X0

November 14: Sucias Cheer on NMSU Lady Aggies

cc.derby — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 18:04:43 +0000

The NMSU Pan American Center’s parquet floor, with its level wood base and smooth, shiny finish, is the type of surface roller derby athletes dream about skating on. Most skaters would give just about anything to be able to get a few good laps in on such a unique floor.

Although skating on that particular floor is not likely to happen any time soon for the athletes of Crossroads City Derby, the Sucias, CCD’s all-star team, did get the opportunity to set foot on the quality court. After getting an invitation from the NMSU Women’s Basketball coaching staff, the team had the opportunity to watch the game and be honored during half time of the November 14, 2011 contest against Idaho State.

The Sucias thoroughly enjoyed the Center’s concession offerings while cheering on NMSU's Women's Basketball. During halftime the roller derby team was invited to take center court just in time to hear CCD's mission over the facility speakers, which includes being dedicated to promoting athleticism, good sportswomanship and female empowerment.

Despite the Aggies 42-59 loss to Idaho State, there was an increased appreciation and respect from the Sucias for the athleticism and effort the collegiate women's basketball team puts into competing.

-General Grant Slam

October 15: Bout for Boobies

cc.derby — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 17:45:32 +0000

Breast Cancer. Chances are, you know someone who has battled this horrible disease. Maybe you yourself are fighting that fight.

When I was very young, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was so young that my dad sat with me and my siblings and said, "Mommy has a plant growing inside of her chest that is making her sick." I was so young, that I was careful not to swallow my watermelon seeds, because I thought for sure that that is how that plant grew inside of her (No joke, it was really terrifying). I remember the treatments that doctors gave her made her seem even more sick. After about a year, my Mom won her battle with cancer. She will always be the strongest woman I know... I dare say, that she is stronger than any of my teammates.

In October, I skated in honor of my mother aka "Momma Bex", in our Bout For Boobies, A Tough Enough To Wear Pink Event. As a league, Crossroads City Derby raised a total of $4,000 for cancer research - $2,000 went to Cowboys for Cancer Research, and the other $2,000 went to the American Cancer Society/NM Division. Needles to say our bout was a success, and that meant more to us than who won or lost. However, the Motorboaters won big over the Wonderbrawlers.

The night was full of thrills and spills, but any beating we took on the track as derby athletes didn't compare to the battle that many women, and men fight against breast cancer. When it was all said and done, it felt good to know that we can make a difference, while doing what we love.

We will keep fighting until there is a cure! Check out pics from the event here.

-Rx Bex 30mg

March 24: Lawmen vs. Cowboys

cc.derby — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:14:50 +0000

L to R: Vexin' Vixen, Fearless Foxy Fighter, Andrematon, General Grant SlamOn March 24th, Crossroads City Derby volunteered for the Lawmen vs. Cowboys shoot out for the 3rd consecutive year. The shootout is a fundraiser hosted by the Picacho Posse of Las Cruces, NM that benefits La Piñon to help fight domestic violence and sexual assault. It is just what it says, Lawmen vs. Cowboys; a shoot off between Cowboys and the Lawmen of our community.

As we watched the Lawmen, some in uniform, some wearing team shirts, and Cowboys dressed in their classic Southwestern ways of chaps and hats, carrying their rifles and rifle carts we got to see skills challenged and demonstrated in a variety of shooting scenarios set up at the Butterfield Range. Some scenarios included western walls with painted bricks to represent the Cowboys' style, and some included silhouettes to represent the Lawmen's trainings.

The sun beat down on us all as we watched, cheered and supported all of the participants, and around noon we were treated to a cookout style lunch. We helped clean up each shooting range after a group went through, picking up shells from rifles, shotguns, and pistols; we also helped reset targets back on their stands, and repainted them quickly to be visible for the next group. I found it interesting that some of the Cowboys (and Cowgirls) requested some of their shells back so that they may re-use them at a later time.

CCD loves characters of all sorts and watching members of the community demonstrate their skills as a means to give back to the community and help those around us. People and events like this are what helps CCD keep going in the community and gives our community a sense of pride. Thank you Lawmen vs. Cowboys for allowing us to help with such a great cause!

-Hearno Evil #2

March 1: Introducing Las Santas!

cc.derby — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 22:41:43 +0000

Within the wild world of roller derby leagues often support home teams, a travel team, and an alternate or "B team". B teams are typically comprised of skater members from home teams who are seeking more bouting opportunities than their home team bouts alone will provide. These alternate teams often represent their leagues and carry a name relating in some way to that of their leagues travel team.

As Crossroads City Derby has evolved, so has our need for our very own B team. Without further ado, we introduce to you derby fanatics... Las Santas! Las Santas will showcase a variety of derby skill levels while representing the derby love that is Crossroads City Derby.

If cheering for the Sucias leaves you feeling a little, well, dirty... clean it up by cheering on our very own Santas! Their very first home bout will be on March 10th at Dickerson's Barn against Silver City's Skate the Wilderness. Get your tickets now for $8 from any CCD member, The Bean Cafe, Shred's Board Shop & Apparel or Spirit Winds! Tickets are also available online at Brown Paper Tickets.

Wanna know what CCD derby divas are playing? Check out the roster:

Head Coach: Racky Balboa, #K-0
Bench Manager: Andrematon, #22

MishDemeanor, #9:15 - Captain
Fearless Foxy Fighter, #587
Lady Longlegs, #8
Geek Goddess, #3.141
Mors Malleus, #11
Jenny Jolts, #518
DVS Dragonfli, #10-80
Vexin Vixen, #X0X0
Muñeca Mala, #9mm
Cruces Criplher, #575
Goldy Blocks, #3BRS
Nikki Six-Shooter, #colt 45
Trinity Smite, #239

September 22: CCD hosts “Girls’ Movie Night”

cc.derby — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:52:03 +0000

The ladies of Crossroads City Derby put away their skates, protective gear and duct tape, dusted off their nicest get-up, took a long-awaited break on a cushiony movie-theatre seat and enjoyed a night out with friends and family to celebrate “Girls’ Movie Night” on September 22, 2011. CCD joined with regional movie theatre leader, Allen Theatres to treat attendees to the Sara Jessica Parker film “I Don’t Know How She Does It.” Before the movie, representatives from local spas and salons lined the Cineport 10 lobby to share information on available services and Guzman Sport Karate and Kickboxing provided demonstrations. Several attendees won highly sought after door prizes. Special events committee members Hearno Evil and Choni Chaser coordinated the fundraising event. CCD President, Reguladies Captain and Sucia extraordinaire Puncher Villa was the top movie ticket seller. Tickets were $10 and partial proceeds went to Crossroads City Derby. Unwilling to end the night with great company too early, attendees made their way across the parking lot to De La Vega's Pecan Grill and Brewery for drink specials following the movie.

-General Grant Slam, #5

February 4: SARD Charmed Forces vs. CCD Sucias

cc.derby — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:33:55 +0000

On February 5, 2011 I was one of 30 or so girls to show up for the first day of Crossroads City Derby fresh meat boot camp. 364 days later I took the track for my first bout as a Sucia. A year ago I could not imagine that I would be a member of CCD's travel team; I was just happy to skate. I put on my first pair of roller skates when I was 4 years old. I spent hours skating up & down my street, and circling my best friend's neighborhood. I would tear across my patio with a baseball bat and a tennis ball playing "hockey." I celebrated my 10th, 11th, and 12th birthdays at Tommy's Roller Rink. I love to skate. I always have, and I hope I always will. I didn't really know what I was getting into that day at boot camp, but I figured if skating was involved then I definitely wanted in. Fast forward 10 or so weeks and I was drafted to a home team and knew I had found my new passion. After participating in 2 home team bouts and observing 4 Sucia bouts I was hooked, and the first week of this year I was invited to try out for the Sucias. I didn't know how I would fit in or if I could keep up, but hey, I'd never know if I didn't try.

On June 12, 2011 I was a non-skating official as the Sucias took on the San Antonio Roller Derby Charmed Forces. Almost 8 months later I was on the track wearing a red and yellow Sucias jersey for the rematch. In the hours leading up to the bout everyone kept asking me, "Are you nervous? Excited?" I was, but mostly I felt calm. I wasn't pressuring myself to be a badass. I'd only been to 4 Sucia practices, and I was very aware of my own ignorance. However, instead of focusing on what I didn't know I chose to focus on the basic things that I did: stay low, keep my eyes moving, don't settle my feet, find my teammates, and always watch for the opposing jammer. I also trusted that my teammates knew what they were doing and I could follow their lead. They simplified things by giving me a single task to focus on during each jam:

---Barbie Bombshell (while scrumming at the jammer line) looked me straight in the eye and bluntly stated "As soon as the 2nd whistle blows I'm going to shove you into the jammer so be ready!"

---General Grant Slam "go block for Venom"

---Hearno Evil "get up front & hold the 3 wall"

---Charity Bomb "hold the #?*@ line!!!"

---Rex Bx "get a goat!"

In the end CCD came out on top 167-88. While it's always nice to win, the score didn't represent how effectively we worked together as a team and applied the skills and strategies we'd been practicing. We recycled, we utilized the truck & trailer technique, we crowded the jam line, and, most importantly, we had a good time doing all of it! We also had an energetic crowd, they cheered each time we scored a grand slam and gasped at the big hits (I was particularly aware of the latter when San Antonio's #316 knocked me halfway across the track). It's truly an amazing feeling when the bout is over, you've played well, and the appreciative crowd surrounds the track to hi-five your entire team as you take a victory lap. It's flattering when an 8 year old boy walks up to you, tells you you're awesome, fist bumps you, and asks for your autograph. But at the end of the night the best part is recapturing that feeling of joy I had as a little girl who wanted nothing more than just to skate. Thank you CCD for allowing my inner child to come out and play!

Nikki Six-Shooter #colt 45

Pics from the bout:

Dick Canon's Set

Photon Enforcer's Set