If you’re anything like me, today may not be your day. It’s the first day of daylight savings time- aka we all lost an hour of sleep and I’m going to need about a gallon of coffee to make up for it- but that’s okay, because today also marks Cornfed’s first day in a month-long celebration of roller derby officials! March is *officially* roller derby officials appreciation month, and CFDD is very lucky to have so many talented and patient officials to highlight.
Speaking of highlights, our first featured official always has a killer new hair color and fresh highlights that steal the show during each official review.
Bethly Hallows is going into her sixth season as an NSO, or non-skating official. She serves as head NSO often at CFDD’s home games and is a pro at anything rules-related. She is kind and warm and has these really cool holographic sneakers that you NEED to see.
Bethly is also a wiz at recruiting and teaching people new to the roller derby world how to get involved on or off skates.
She can break down even the most complicated bout paperwork and turn a day one volunteer into a seasoned pro. She’s a great teacher who specializes in making others feel comfortable and valued.
Bethly is definitely someone you need to know- so we are gonna go ahead and help you out with that via this handy Q&A:
What got you started officiating?
Slowey Ramone came to my work looking for sponsorship. I lamented that I wished I could join but I don’t skate. That’s when I learned about all the fun you can have off skates in the derby world.
Do you prefer to officiate on or off skates? Why?
Off. Wheely shoes are scary.
What is the hardest part of officiating?
Keeping a straight face when I see a good play or big hit.
What is the best part?
All the cool people I’ve met and became friends with.
What do you do when you’re not officiating?
Binge Netflix.
What is a fun fact about you?
My cats have derby names. Stinkerbell and The Mighty Taquito.
What would you tell someone who is considering becoming an official?
Doooo iiiiit! It’s a fun way to get involved in a wonderful community. And if you’re a skater, it lets to learn the sport better so you can be a better player.
As you can tell, Bethly is a gem. But hey, don’t take our word for it- come see for yourself at our next home bout on March 21! Doors open for the double header at 5 p.m. with a 6 p.m. start time for the All-Stars game. Tickets at the door are $12 per person (cash or card) or $10 in advance through Brown Paper Tickets or from any Cornfed Derby Dame. Learn more by clicking here.