Michi-chan's RAW Derby is a new video series, produced in 2025 from Michi-chan Sports. From 2007~2009, I traveled the state in search of derby and took a camera with me. The video that I shot was originally used for our series The Arizona Derby Report/Michi-chan's REAL Derby that aired 7 episodes, plus additional features and multi-part "Jam by Jam" videos. In many of these cases, I recorded all or most of the entire bout.
At least 15 years has passed since those videos were recorded and a lot has changed in derby. Some of the changes I like, some of them, not so much. Regardless, this is our game made by the skaters and for the skaters. Progress happens. Don't let this early Gen-Xer stop the progress.
But at the same time, we must respect the roots of modern resurgence roller derby. What started as a no holds barred fandango in a now-defunct skating rink in Tempe, Arizona had blossomed into different flavors of derby, all at different temperature levels.
Michi-chan's RAW Derby takes the many hours of derby footage that I have and puts it together to relive the way we used to play the game in those early days. This was from a time when the blockers would get a head start from the jammers and lapping the other team's jammer was a grand slam worth an extra point. This was a time when the home teams ruled the house and "extended take downs" were tolerated.
Michi-chan's RAW Derby presents these recorded bouts, in most cases, "Jam by Jam". It was like you were there. Depending on the league, you will hear my commentary, jam by jam calls and in some cases, the league's own announcer.
Please join us on this adventure as we relive the golden age of modern roller derby in Arizona. For some out there, this was your mother's roller derby!
All episodes will premiere on Thursdays (except Thanksgiving) at 7:30PM Arizona Time from September 18~December 18, 2025. (10:30PM EDT between September 18~October 30 & 9:30PM PST between November 6~December 18).
Schedule will be revealed on September 11, 2025!