Whose life hasn’t been touched by roller derby?

Most people watched it on TV as kids and nearly everyone has had his or her knees scraped by skating snafus.

Growing up, Jim Croce’s “Roller Derby Queen” introduced me to the sport, but it wasn’t until a recent Bakersfield Rollergirls practice that I had my formal introduction.

For about a year now, the Rollergirls have been meeting and practicing to develop their individual and team skills.

Last spring, they started competing with other California derby teams and have maintained a 3-1 record.

Some Rollergirls hail from staunch derby backgrounds while others are lifelong athletes and others have been to just a few practices yet are as enthusiastic as longtime members.

After talking to some of the Rollergirls, a frequent explanation for getting involved in roller derby was, “A friend of mine talked me into coming to a practice, and I’ve been here ever since.”

Others found roller derby practices to be an interesting form of exercise and the sport to be compelling enough to win them over.

The team may have varying degrees of derby experience, but many Rollergirls said it was an addictive sport — and I can see how.

The combination of agility, athleticism, speed, teamwork and the potential for dynamic confrontation during competition is appealing — and maybe that’s what makes roller derby such a great spectator sport, too.

With a strong sense of camaraderie, community and dedication, the Bakersfield Rollergirls are steadily preparing for their upcoming bout with the Sac City Rollers on Aug. 18 at Rollerama, 1004 34th St.

The “Back to School Brawl” will certainly be worth watching!

Come out and support our girls!!!

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids under 12.

To purchase tickets, visit: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/16728 — or stop by Rollerama or Downtown Records, 1518 19th St.

A donation of kids’ school supplies will get you a free raffle ticket, too.

Visit: www.bakorollers.com to check out the Bakersfield Rollergirls.

Thanks for all your help Spidy!!!