Roller Derby is one of those incomprehensible spectacles you just can't stop watching... sort of like professional wrestling. Its evolution began in the 1930s and peaked during the 60s. Surprisingly it is currently enjoying a Renaissance, so we need to know a little about it.

First, there's good reason for the skaters' "nom de plumes," like Barbie O'Havoc and Electra Q Tion. Fan feelings run hot and the women are often stalked. Next, Velcro is their enemy. Although it holds equipment in place, a little piece loose can scrape skin thusly wounding worse than a punch. Finally, they have an unusually high level of sportsmanship and etiquette, sending Get Well Cards and flowers to injured opponents.

Should we bridge players follow the example of these warriors Athletes (and make no mistake-- they ARE athletes!)? I'm not sure we should be sending cards to our opponents when we beat them, but there's always room for good sportsmanship.