Our league was founded in 2011 by General Teresa and Kamikaaskop. Northern Lightning Rollergirls was one of the first roller derby teams in the Netherlands, and the first one in the north. A few years later another league was founded, Roaring Thunder Men’s Derby – the first men’s team in the Netherlands. After practicing together for ages, we decided to merge, and in 2017 we officially became Roller Derby Groningen.

This brings us where we are now: a small but enthusiastic league with three teams (women, men and co-ed), some junior members and a lot of derby love.

Having our own league means we have to do everything ourselves: finding a place to practice, recruiting, promoting and organizing games – all with volunteers. We’re proud of our accomplishments, like placing in the national championships and organizing events. Some of our skaters also play for, train and coach the national teams.

Derby isn’t just about winning, though. It’s about overcoming hardship, be it the physical training or the organization, and in the end you’ll be able to do something you didn’t know you could do before. You’ll be your own hero.