In this new series, we’re going to introduce you to the fierce and fab ladies who live, work and play within our Midcoast community. Not everybody has the guts and drive to make it in the sport of roller derby. Welcome to the women who love, live and breathe derby.

Skater Profile: Smacks on Deck

Real name:
Sarah Rogers

Tell us about your derby name
It’s a play on the phrase “Stacks on Deck,” which is common hip-hop terminology for “lots of money”— meaning you have so much, it’s saved up “on deck.” I do not have that, but I do have “Smacks On Deck.” Rough and tumble “smacks” for the opposing team and loving “smacks” for my team

Age
32 in years. 21 in mind, body, spirit. I think…

Current town and hometown 
Rockland and Rockland

Occupation
Arts Instructor

How long have you been skating?
One year

Why derby?
Because it is a challenge with amazing results for the mind and body. It makes my spirit soar and my heart grow super big! It’s such a fun way to be part of the community (and it’s pretty bad-ass.)

What’s been the most challenging aspect of derby so far? What’s your Achilles’ heel, so to speak?
Being patient with the skills I have, while challenging myself to achieve more.

Most fun and rewarding part of derby?
Using my body to do things I never thought it could.

Other sports/hobbies/interests:
The only organized sport I ever played was field hockey in high school. I wasn’t very coordinated and didn’t have great endurance, but I was tough and fast. I’ve been hang gliding and skiing my whole life and love adrenaline-inducing activities. My 10-year-old son has been my biggest motivator in sports, hobbies, and interests. He got me dirt-biking, mountain biking, and skiing faster and better. Derby is the first thing that started as something for me, that now he is interested in and supportive of. Oh, and I like dancing. A lot.

Related story:

• Roller derby skater profile: Chain Lynx

Rock Coast Rollers is a diverse group of women dedicated to advancing and advocating for the sport of roller derby, women, their league and their community. RCR aims to be a skater-owned, nonprofit business under the Women's Flat Track Derby Association, based in Rockland. For more information visit rockcoastrollers.org.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com