When Jonathan Emery, Meridian Trust’s Deputy IT Director, is not helping to ensure the tech systems are running seamlessly, he plays an instrumental role in the Stamford Junior and Senior Roller Derby teams and was recently appointed Head Coach of the Junior GB Roller Derby Team.
Under Jonathan’s leadership, the Borderland Beasts, Stamford’s junior team, are preparing for the gold medal match in Stoke-on-Trent on 14th September 2024.
Jonathan’s introduction to roller derby began 12 years ago when he attended a local roller disco with his three children. Since then, he has progressed from novice to pro, now playing for the number two UK senior team, the Borderland Bandits, based in Stamford, who are currently placed third in Europe.
Jonathan said: “Roller derby is an exciting part of my life and my children also love playing. The great thing about roller derby is that it is fully inclusive; it is a game open to all, with same-gender or mixed teams. We attract a lot of neurodivergent players who say that the chaos on the track matches the chaos in their brain.”
Roller derby is a rapid and intense full-contact sport that is gaining popularity in the UK. Two teams compete against each other around a flat, oval track. Each team consists of five members: four ‘Blockers’ and one ‘Jammer’. Points are scored by the Jammer for every Blocker they pass. There are seven referees to control the game and ensure it remains a safe contact sport.
In addition to coaching the local and national Borderland teams, Jonathan also referees and is part of the World Cup committee, organising and arranging for 10 countries to compete against each other. At present, the national team trains monthly at Lilleshall, where Olympians prepare, including Bryony Page, the trampoline gold medallist for Team GB.
Jonathan said that plans are also underway to fly the Junior GB Roller Derby Team to Australia in 2025 for the World Cup, which promises to be a fantastic experience.
Jonathan added: “So many of the leadership and management skills I have developed at Meridian Trust seamlessly transfer to my role as a roller derby coach. I have learned how to connect with the players on common ground, effectively manage the teams, and create an environment where each player can thrive and succeed. Communication, adaptability, and leadership are what empower a cohesive and dynamic team, whether in the classroom or on the rink.”
