Continuing the conversation on confidence in sport, today I’m talking specifically about the sport of roller derby – a sport that has been near and dear to my bruised hips for 12+ years.

Roller derby is a unique and challenging sport that requires not only physical but mental strength. As a roller derby athlete, you need to be able to take hits, make split-second decisions, and push yourself to your limits, all while maintaining a focused and competitive attitude. So, how can you build and maintain confidence on and off the track?

1. Know your strengths and weaknesses: Roller derby requires a wide range of skills (and body types!), from blocking and jamming to communication and teamwork. Identify your strengths and focus on developing them further. At the same time, be honest about your weaknesses and work on improving them with the help of your teammates and coaches.
2. Practice visualization: Visualization can help you prepare mentally for the challenges of roller derby – even with skills you’ve never done before. This one can be a really great tool for the beginner to roller derby! Close your eyes and imagine yourself making successful plays, avoiding or leaning into hits, or maybe jamming for the first time. The more you practice visualization, the more confident and focused you can be during bouts.
3. Embrace the physical and mental challenges: Roller derby is a tough sport, and it’s normal to feel nervous or intimidated at times. However, it’s essential to embrace the challenges and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. As you face and overcome challenges, your confidence will grow, and you’ll become a better athlete and teammate. One of the mantras that has kept me going through so many years of this sport is: I can do anything for two minutes. For some, this perspective can be incredibly helpful in refocusing.
4. Build a supportive team culture: Roller derby is a team sport, and your teammates can play a significant role in building your confidence. Surround yourself with supportive and positive teammates who lift you up and help you grow as an athlete. Encourage each other, celebrate successes, and learn from setbacks together.
5. Set realistic goals: Setting goals can help you focus your efforts and track your progress. However, it’s crucial to set realistic goals that are challenging but achievable. Break down your long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate each milestone along the way. (Did you notice that celebration is a theme?)