We think that everyone should be a “Bettie.”
What’s a Bettie you say?
Well, a Bettie is a member of the terrific JBLM Bettie Brigade, an all-female, nonprofit, player run and flat-track roller derby team comprised of skaters in the local military community in Tacoma. These athletes are the real deal; they work hard, play hard and support each other wholeheartedly, on and off the track. Their high energy, positive attitudes and sense of comradery and teamwork are like no other.
At the Brain Energy Support Team (BEST), we are proud and honored to say that the JBLM Bettie Brigade is not only a community partner, but some of our favorite BESTies around.
While we love everything about the Betties, one of the BEST things about them is their community outreach. The Betties are always there to lend a hand and share their mission and vision in both the military and civilian communities.
One of the Betties important missions is to not only serve as role models for fitness, wellness, team work and good sportsmanship, they also like to share information about safety, especially when it comes to their most important piece of equipment: helmets. In the rough and tumble world of derby, helmets are a critical part of the sport.
BEST had the opportunity to catch up with one of the Bettie skaters, “Sailor Cherry,” and got the scoop on derby helmets and her own personal story.
“We’ve all had different types of helmets,” she says. “Just a few years ago, almost all derby players were wearing a soft foam skate helmet. These days, you’ll find us in a multi-sport, multi-impact helmet such as S1 or in a hockey helmet.”
We also learned from the athlete, that head injury certainly doesn’t discriminate. Whether one is a new or experienced skater, head injuries can happen; even to an ace sportswoman like herself.
“It’s not just new people who are susceptible to head injuries,” explains Sailor Cherry. “Although staying in shape and maintaining your balance is something that will help prevent head injuries, even experienced skaters can suffer from concussions and other head injuries.
For instance, just last week I sustained a concussion while practicing. After over three years of skating roller derby, I got a head injury. This is my second concussion in six months and I’m out for the season. I can’t even imagine what would’ve happened if I wasn’t wearing a helmet!”
Indeed.
To learn more about the Bettie Brigade and she their season bout schedule, visit them on their website or check out their Facebook page.
Special thanks to Sailor Cherry of the Bettie Brigade for participating in this report.
