Bone Diggity loves life on wheels

Roller Derby is a growing sport in Saskatchewan, and while a team is just now forming in Yorkton, a former resident is turning the track on a regular basis in Regina.

Amy Sheppard was born and raised in Yorkton, moving to the Queen City about six years ago.

Sheppard said she had not known about roller derby until the move to Regina where she attended a game.

"I found out about roller derby through one of my friends. We bought some tickets and went to one of the bouts and I fell in love with the sport," she said.

"It looked like so much fun. It was something new and interesting to me."

The interest was somewhat unusual for Sheppard who admitted sports were never her big interest.

"I was never really interested in any sports when I was growing up," she said, but roller derby was different. "I bought my first pair of skates and couldn't wait to get rolling. It took awhile for me to find somewhere to skate outside, but when I did I was there every chance I had.

"My daughter Jordan was a great encouragement and she's been there every step of the way. She now has her own skates and is also in the Junior Roller Derby too."

While a rookie to the sport, Sheppard said there was nothing about learning the sport hard work did not overcome.

"I can't really think of any specific thing that was really hard about the sport," she said. "I just really wanted to be a part of the Pile O' Bones Derby Club so I gave it all I had and I am still learning all the skills involved in the sport."

In terms of interest Sheppard, who goes by Bone Diggity on the track, said the sport has some obvious appeal to fans.

"Who wouldn't want to watch a bunch of girls in fishnets and skates slam each other around?" she asked, adding a laugh.

"The love and support of the league is amazing."

As for her own game, Sheppard said her primary focus is fun.

"I like to remind myself to just have fun," she said. "I thought for my first game I would be nervous in front of a huge crowd but once you get on the track you don't even notice any of them. I get such a huge rush when I play a game and I feel awesome after."

And, Sheppard said it's great to hear the Broadway Betties are in training in her hometown.

"I'm super excited that Yorkton is starting a league and I would love to play in my home town," she said, adding "I hope to get a chance to skate with the girls before that."