AFA 10 Years: Root’s story
Who are you, and what is your skater name??
I’m Amanda, aka Root. My derby name comes from the Person of Interest series. Root was an insanely cool character who could talk to computers.
How can we recognize you on the roller derby track? (bout makeup, playstyle, signature move, outfit etc.)
I don’t really have a playstyle, except that I often stood as front support. That’s where I felt most comfortable and where my talents came into their own.
Why do/did you like Roller Derby?
Roller derby is a very cool and fun sport. I could really get into it, and the people are so lovely!
Roller Derby is a very cool and fun sport. I could really get into it, and the people are so lovely!
When were you active with AFA?
2014 to 2020 approximately.
What was AFA like back then?
AFA was a growing association. At the time -before corona- we were setting up a B-team, and we had more and more people who obtained their Minimum Skills. We were busy with the A-team playing as many bouts as possible, also abroad.
What role(s) have you played in AFA or Roller Derby in general?
I started as Fresh Meat, of course, after which I quickly started working as treasurer. After that, I got my Minimum Skills, and I became a Captain. Then I combined that with Head Education and was, therefore, head of the training.
I often stood as front support. That’s where I felt most comfortable.
What is your most memorable AFA/Roller Derby moment?
The match was in Dublin, Ireland. We travelled with a whole team to Dublin and played there on a very slippery floor. No one expected us to win, but we won! And the trip was a lot of fun!
Do you have any tips for new players?
Learn as much as you can from the Vets (the experienced players). Let yourself be carried away, and let them take you along.
Do you want to say something in the context of AFA 10 years?
I hope that AFA can exist for a long time and that some matches can be played again soon!
