Vince Lombardi once said, “Winning means you’re willing to go longer, work harder, and give more than anyone else.” Based on that quote, the Santa Cruz Derby Groms’ Gromshells are winners through and through.
The team of Scotts Valley-based roller derby enthusiasts acquired some impressive stats during their 2025 season: they competed in eight tournaments in seven different cities and outscored their opponents 6373-440, averaging about 318 points per game; they set a Junior Roller Derby Association (JRDA) record with their seventh consecutive appearance in a JRDA championship game (2017-19, 2022-25); and they matched the JRDA record with four Championship titles (2018, 2023-25).
The Gromshells played in the championship semi-final game against the Seattle Derby Brats on July 12, and they put the Brats in time-out with a decisive winning score of 222-50, eliminating the Brats from contention in the finals.
Following that massive win, the Gromshells were ready to advance to the championship game the next day, playing the Rose City Rosebuds out of Portland, Ore. The Gromshells mulched the Rosebuds with a final score of 124-57, allowing the Gromshells to celebrate a three-peat National Championship title and a 20-0 undefeated season—their best yet.
While the competitors were over the moon with their wins, the coaches were quick to praise the team for their dedication to the sport.
“We are extremely proud of what the Gromshells have accomplished this season,” said Coach Neo (Chris Kerr). “They worked hard all season, refining their skills, teamwork and strategy from when we formed the team during tryouts in October 2024 all the way through the post-season in July 2025. Their defense, offense and jamming was unparalleled and very impressive to watch, outscoring opponents at an overall 14:1 ratio. It truly was a team effort, with every single team member contributing to their 20-game undefeated season and third consecutive national championship title.”
Coach Ima (Shana Kerr) was equally enthusiastic about her team’s success.
“It was a privilege to coach the 2025 Gromshells team during a National Championship game. I get to be part of their journey and witness every play up close and personal,” she said. “This game was particularly exciting as we put six skaters on the track who had never played in such a high-stakes game before. Each of these players brought intensity and were an asset to the teamwork driven style of gameplay that the Gromshells are known for. These first-timers proved that they can hang with the big players, and I cannot wait to see how they grow and what they will bring to future seasons.”
The team is always looking for new players. If you’ve got a Grom who might be interested in strapping on some skates and powering through a season with like-minded athletes, visit santacruzderbygroms.com for more information.
