How Roller Derby Makes Me a Better Graphic Designer

On the surface, graphic design and roller derby might seem like two completely separate worlds: one spent behind a screen; the other on eight wheels tearing around a track. However, the more time I spend balancing both; the more I realise how much roller derby has shaped who I am as a designer.

Derby isn’t just a sport. It’s strategy, community, progression, and resilience; and (oddly enough) those are the exact same things that fuel great design work.

Here’s how roller derby makes me better at what I do every day as a graphic designer in the marketing and events world.

Boldness

Roller derby has taught me to be brave. On the track; you don’t have time to second-guess. You commit to a move or you get knocked down. That mindset has made its way into my design work. I’ve become more confident in trusting my instincts, exploring bold ideas, and pitching brave creative concepts that stand out.

Design is about taking risks and derby taught me that sometimes the boldest move is the most effective one.

Teamwork and Collaboration

Roller derby is the most team-focused sport I’ve ever experienced. Every skater, every hit, every point scored is built on communication and trust. Just like in derby; event and campaign work only succeeds when everyone is rolling in the same direction.

Whether I’m collaborating with event managers, copywriters, or fellow designers; I approach teamwork with that same derby mindset: know your role, play to your strengths, support your teammates, and communicate like it matters (because it really really does)!

Calm in the Chaos

Derby is fast, unpredictable, and intense. Sound familiar?

It’s the perfect training ground for handling high-pressure moments in the workplace. Tight turnarounds, last-minute changes, and indecisive clients don’t rattle me the way they used to.

Just like in a jam; you learn to think on your feet (or wheels), make quick decisions, and trust your training. Roller derby helped build that calm under pressure and I bring it to every deadline I face.

Creative Problem Solving

No two games are ever the same in derby. You’re constantly reading the play, switching tactics, finding ways around or through your opponents. It’s strategic as heck.

That brainpower is exactly what I bring into my design work as well; especially when dealing with vague briefs, constantly evolving brand requests, or event branding that needs to be both beautiful and functional.

Roller derby taught me to be agile and strategic; not just creative.

I don’t just ask “What looks good?”

I ask, “What moves the goal forward?”

The Heart of Identity

One of the most fascinating parts of roller derby is how deeply skaters connect to identity. Every team, every player, and even every bout is steeped in personality. From logos and uniforms to derby names and the fan culture. It’s branding in its purest, grass-roots form.

This has given me a deeper understanding of how visual identity can create community and emotion. When I design for STRONG PR’s clients; I don’t just want my work to look good. I want it to feel right. To resonate.

That sense of belonging and recognition? Roller derby gave me a track-side seat to how powerful that can be.

Fuel for Creativity

Lastly but potentially most importantly for me; derby keeps me energised. It’s a haven outside of work that challenges me, clears my head, and fills my creative tank. Some of my best ideas arise out of a tough scrimmage or a long training session.

We all need something outside of work that inspires us. For me, it’s roller derby in all its sweaty, gritty, adrenaline-fueled glory and it’s made me a more curious, creative, and connected designer for it.

Final Whistle

At first glance, graphic design and roller derby don’t seem to have much in common but the overlap runs far deeper than you’d expect. Both demand boldness, strategy, teamwork, and creativity. Both are about making an impact; whether it’s with a hip check or a really well-chosen font.

I’m proud to bring a little roller derby energy into every design I create and I think my work (and our clients) are STRONGER for it.