At just 16, Estevan’s Cecila McCaskill is on a thrilling journey to Vancouver, where she hopes to make her mark by securing a spot on Team Canada’s U18 roller derby team.
She has been involved in roller derby for about eight years, inspired by watching her friend’s games, although she was initially too young to join. She appreciates the support of her team, which she describes as welcoming and attentive.
To fund her trip, McCaskill is collecting cans and bottles. Donations can be made at SARCAN drop-and-go locations using the code "Derby Rocks."
“My and my friend made Team Sask. And that was a huge step up and then this is an even bigger step,” she said. “I’m super excited whether I make the final cut or not, it’s just a good experience.”
A roller derby game has two teams of five, with four blockers and a jammer on each team. “Your jammer gets the points, and the opposing blockers are there to block you and stop you from getting points. How you get points is passing the opponent’s team’s blockers' hips.”
McCaskill plays all positions in Estevan’s roller derby league but favours the pivot and jammer roles. She explains that roller derby has three levels, starting from basics and gradually advancing. “It’s a good program and way of learning, and it’s just a fun sport.”
Being only the second person from Estevan to make the junior Canada team, McCaskill is following in the footsteps of her coach, Ella Goodmanson, who has achieved this distinction twice. With her coach’s guidance and her own determination, McCaskill is ready to take on this exciting challenge and inspire others in her community.