i had my first experience with the wonderful world of roller derbying last night, and what a discovery.
the ladies in the team were strong, and very skilled at the sport. they were also all kinds of body shapes, sizes and ages, and displaying an unaltered sense of strength. it’s rare to see a sport being a woman’s space, and being attended by people with the same fervor reserved for more traditional games such as football or basketball.
another striking thing is the amount of rough competition that is part of the sport, intermingled with a clear sense of respect between players of different teams. more than once i saw ladies on the opposing groups shake hands, or give each other fives before the whistle, and then during the game shoulder each other with fierce determination.
i was a little apprehensive about going because i expected it it to be a spectacle of creepy sexualization of women’s aggression and toughness, but i had to rethink.there is an element of sexiness in the tight, form fitting clothing, and mini mini skirts, but it doesn’t seem to be there in order to please the spectatorial male gaze.
it’s something i am definitely still figuring out , the fine line between wanting to feel good about your body, and falling into the stereotypes of conforming to what beauty is supposed to be like. there is a definite narrative of sexuality being a tool of power for women, but more often than not in compliance to male demands and desires.
still, i think there is definitely a space for sexuality to be radical, and empowering. so, it was really nice to see it possible even in a fairly mainstream space as the roller derby. as i was getting a ride with a friend though, she shared that people from her work were there at the game, and she has overheard them talking about how sexy the ladies in the team are, and how it gets them off to see them falling ad pushing each other. what a fucking bummer…
