From watching to competing, Steffi finds her place on fast-paced roller derby track and hasn’t looked back

After years spent watching from the sidelines, Steffi has stepped onto the track and into the fast-paced world of roller derby. Now a keen competitor, she hasn’t looked back since taking the leap. Steffi said she arrived for her first session feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty. “I was excited and a little unsure,” she said. “But everyone I met on the first night was kind and supportive.” Steffi said her biggest challenge was trying to get comfortable on the skates. “Being on skates can be daunting at the start,” she said. “But it’s doable and so much fun. “Putting in the practice and finally mastering a skill is a great feeling.” She said everyone involved is supportive and very social which makes her want to come back each week. “The other players and the club are very encouraging,” she said. “You get honest feedback that helps you improve, but its always supportive. “People want you to succeed. “There’s definitely a bit of grit involved too, showing up each week and sticking with it.” Steffi said people considering joining should take the leap. “Do it — I wish I had joined earlier,” she said. The Albany Roller Derby Club continues to focus on making the sport accessible for everyone with all skate equipment available to borrow at no extra cost and offers financial assistance to those who need it. The league also provides opportunities and pathways into State and national competition for those looking to progress further. For this year’s roller derby season, training sessions will occur on Thursdays at Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre, with juniors skating from 5.30pm, and adults from 6.30pm. Games are scheduled across Saturdays and Sundays. Registrations are open with the 2026 roller derby season starting on April 23.