Last time I barely knew anyone at all except for Bec, who I had seen at rollerama a couple of times and even then we had idle friendly banter at best.

This time there was a small squad of rollerama regulars who I have come to know and love, as well as Bec who has since become my derby wife !

Last time I was sick with nerves and could barely sleep the night before because I was so worried I was going to embarrass myself with my lack of skill.

This time I was so excited I could barely sleep the night before. I knew the last 6 months of practising the same old skills on a weekly basis meant I was not going to be as hopeless as last time…or did it ???…yes it did.

Last time I was getting frustrated with my mind and body for not cooperating, getting stressed out that I was holding people up, pissing off the coaches due to weakness and sweating my proverbial balls off in 35 plus degrees.

This time I was only getting frustrated with my mouth guard for being lame but I was still probably pissing off the coaches, this time due to laughing too much instead of QQing about passing out. I was still sweating it up albeit in a more comfortable 20 degree heat.

Last time my pads and gear were all new and uncomfortable like.

This time everything fits a little better, I’m so used to wearing them that it feels wrong to skate without them. This time however…the gear PONGS !

Last time I could not skate more than 19.5 laps in five minutes.

This time i could skate 22 ^_^

The skills we need to learn are the same as last time. We need to be able to do the following to pass our white star to be invited to join South Sea Roller Derby.

• Toe stops and plow stops
• One knee falls, two knee falls, 4 point falls
• Jumps
• Skate 20+ laps of the track in 5 minutes with good form (bend those knees!) and cross overs

All things considered I believe I am much more prepared mentally and physically for boot camp and derby. I know how to do everything on the list and even though there is room for improvement on everything I’m pretty sure I’ll be happy whatever happens.

Basically I am having a boat load more fun this time around (OMG I’m already making nautical references !). Being relaxed, being in the most awesome company and knowing how to do more than skate around in circles sure does have its advantages.

Bring on week two !

In other news : the blog has a new skin! I think green is my favourite colour at the moment. Can you tell? A big thanx to misty meaner for letting me steal her photos from sunday.

xo