Durban North resident shares how she became a part of Durban Roller Derby
Nikita Norman who is part of Durban's Roller Derby team goes my the Derby name of ‘Kitastrophic’ in the sport.
THE sport of Roller Derby is known for it’s colourful nicknames, athleticism and hard hits. It’s also a sport that has found a home in Durban with a group of passionate skaters.
This is true for local resident, Nikita Norman who is part of Durban’s Roller Derby team.
Norman who goes my the Derby name of ‘Kitastrophic’ said she’s found her family in the sport.
“I’ve always been a sporty person and when I moved from Johannesburg to Durban I was looking for a sport to take up. I happened by chance to spot one the Durban Roller Derby posts on Facebook and thought why not. I saw the movie ‘Whip It’ which is essential viewing to gain some insight into the sport. It was also an opportunity for me to see what is all about.
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“Since my first freshie session, where they introduce newbies like me to the sport, I haven’t looked back. I chose Kitastrophic for my Derby name, it’s like catastrophic and it incorporates my name so it suits me perfectly. I’ve also been called The Wall because of my role as a blocker. I’ve been finding my feet in the sport in terms of position. I’ve fallen more times than I can count but you just have to pick yourself up each time and be ready to go again. We also very safety conscious especially wearing the proper protective padding. The sport has also helped me gain confidence and improve my fitness levels,” Norman said.
The Durban North resident also spoke about how welcoming her Durban Derby family have been.
“All the girls are so welcoming and it is what has kept me coming back. The support and the love is incredible. The vibe is awesome and everyone I’ve met since I’ve started have always been helpful. We are an inclusive, tight-knit group and they are like family. Everyone involved in Durban Roller Derby roots for each other which is rare,” she said.
To find out more about the sport, or the team or to join, visit the Durban Roller Derby Facebook page.
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