No matter what you are getting up to (or down to) on Valentine’s Day, the snuggles aren’t quite over yet! In roller derby, skating in close proximity to other is essential. The drills this week will focus on how to get up close and personal with other skaters in ways that are safe, sane, consensual, and fun for all!

We’ll take a look at various strategies for roller skating in proximity to others, and play with some partner drills. We may even have time for some three- and foursomes.

Don’t plan on ever being a roller derby player? You still need to skate safely around others.

Squicked out by the thought of being that close to other sweaty skaters? Well, derby may not be the sport for you. But, I think that if you try, you find it’s not that bad. Unless someone hasn’t washed their gear in a while, in which case, yep, it’s pretty bad. (On that note, if your gear can walk, talk or launch its own line of artisanal cheeses, it’s time to give it a rinse.)

Total beginner? Never fear! We’ll get you skating in no time.

We’ll see you Saturday! As always, we’ll be at Thunderbird Community Centre, 2311 Cassiar St. from 5 to 7 PM.

What to bring:

You must have roller skates, and all safety gear: knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, helmet, and mouth guard. The venue also requires everyone to use white or light-coloured, non-marking toe stoppers. If your knee pads are black, please cover them with white, non-marking hockey tape. Vertical strips of tape work best.

When & Where:

Sessions are $7, and take place every Saturday from 5-7 at Thunderbird Community Centre, 2311 Cassiar St., Vancouver, very close to Rupert Skytrain Station. Sessions are drop-in. Just grab your gear and come join us!

And remember Raw Meat Vancouver Roller Skating has just two simple rules: 1. Be Safe, 2. Don’t be an asshat.