Houston, Texas – Yellow Rose Roller Derby is apart of an exciting skate scene in Houston. It’s a league packed with grit, personality, and a whole lot of heart.
For many of the skaters, derby is more than a sport, it’s a community. Moms, nurses, teachers, professionals, and total beginners all come together for a safe, high-energy space where they can hit hard, laugh harder, and build confidence on and off the track.
One of the fan favorites is Andrea “Andrea the Giant” Zamora, a 4’10’’ blocker who proves that size has nothing to do with strength.
“I’m very short so people underestimate me in that way,but I can block people- which is really cool,” Andrea said.
Another standout is Jennifer Friedheim Vooorhies AKA Jenneral Sleia, a skater who joined after seeing roller derby in the movies and now serves as one of the team’s leaders.
Jennifer says the people keep her coming back and not to buy into their tough exteriors: “We look very very tough most of the time, if you see any picture of me playing it’s a very serious face; but every other minute of the day I’m smiling,”
Games are loud, fast, and full of action, with colorful outfits, edgy derby names, and a rowdy crowd cheering every lap. But even with the chaos, the team calls it a “safe, crazy space,” welcoming all genders and backgrounds. Skaters like Marines Camarillo AKA Loca Loba, says derby has helped her gain confidence, cope with stress, and find friendships that feel like family.
“It’s camaraderie, it’s being together, it’s knowing you have a unit that you can trust that you can focus on, and that you can love,” Camarillo said.
Yellow Rose Roller Derby is hosting a double-header this Saturday at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds. It’ll feature their All-Stars and an inter-league showdown that promises to be one of their wildest events yet. Whether you’re thinking about joining or just want to watch something new, the team says everyone is welcome to their boot camp training.
For ticket information,tickets, and details on how to join the next boot camp, visit yellow-rose-roller-derby.com/ .