Roller derby players skate for invisible illness

Team Crazy Legs sprang from a movement that started in the UK. Photo / Robbie Booth Photography

Seven members of Rotorua's roller derby league will play as part of "Team Crazy Legs" this weekend - a group made up of people affected by mental and or chronic illness.

The Team Crazy Legs movement was formed in 2013 in the United Kingdom and the concept was brought to New Zealand in 2016 by Dawn Duthie, aka Thugsy Malone, of Richter City Roller Derby.

The team is a large and inclusive group of roller derby players, officials and supporters who are affected by mental and or chronic illness. Its tagline is "Skating out for invisible illness".

Duthie said she started Team Crazy Legs because she felt there was a real need to bring awareness to invisible illness and to break the stigmas attached.

"What started as a simple idea has grown into a wonderful supportive safe space, and I am constantly blown away by the amazing humans within our derby community."

More than 150 roller derby enthusiasts make up Team Crazy Legs Aotearoa and as often as possible, the team play exhibition games throughout New Zealand. As only 14 skaters are required per game, the rosters are created on a first-in first-served basis.

The roster for Saturday's game against Moana Roller Derby at the Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre in Tauranga includes seven members of the Sulphur City Steam Rollers, all of whom have experienced some form of invisible illness including depression and anxiety.

Many of those playing this weekend have spent more than half of their lives on medication, and some still struggle daily with the effects of their illnesses.

Sulphur City Steam Rollers chairwoman, Layla Robinson said she had suffered from depression and anxiety since she was a teenager.

"With the help of counselling and medication, I'm in a place where I'm okay most days, but still constantly have to fight to lift the black cloud hanging over my head. It can be exhausting.

"Roller derby gives me energy, and a positive physical outlet for my emotions. The people I've met through this empowering sport have made me feel like I'm not alone."

DeArna Branson said she has had depression since the age of 16 and also bouts of anxiety panic attacks.

"I think knowing that I wasn't the only one has helped me. I am proud to skate with Team Crazy Legs because it promotes understanding and shows that even though an invisible illness affects us, it doesn't affect our ability to enjoy life for the most part. I have found unity in this team."

This Saturday's Team Crazy Legs roster includes a mixed level of skaters from Wellington, Whakatane, Rotorua and Auckland, and promises to be an exciting game.

Team Crazy Legs last played in Tauranga in July 2017, defeating local mixed team, Space Invaders, 206-134.

Doors open at 3pm and the game starts at 3.30pm.

Entry is $10 adults, $5 children (aged 5-14), $5 students (with ID) and under 5s are free.

Duthie has created a private Facebook page for members of Team Crazy Legs Aotearoa, which is dedicated to providing a safe place for anyone who has been affected by any form of invisible illness.

If you are involved with your local roller derby league and would like to be part of the group, visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1202723606485396