After 6 years of skating with the Central City Rollergirls, I stopped to pursue other hobbies. This is the advice i gave to them:
Measure yourself on how you have improved since your last assessment not by other people - When you first start there will be people who are naturally good skaters and will progress faster than you. This DOES NOT mean you are shit! Some of the people that took a lot longer than others to pass mins are the people now that are the outstanding skaters on the A team. The reason for this is because you put in what you get out. These are the skaters that go to all the practices they can, go to the boot camps, go to the gym/fight club on days off. If you want it you can get it, it just may take you some hard work but its worth it in the end.
Team work - When you get on a team, you may be on a low rotation or you may not get to play at all. This will not be forever. Put the hard work in and you will get there. I've seen it really upset people, myself included but remember this is a team sport and try to be happy for your team mates that get the spot rather than asking why not me.
Equipment - You do not need 500 pound custom skates in funky colours! However they will give you the most joy when they finally arrive:)
Committee work - Ive been a member of most committees and have learnt so much. My CV is full of things ive done with CCR and its so rewarding when you put in alot of effort and you pull off a great event or manage to FINALLY get the uniforms sorted after a year of stupid emails!!!! My best piece of advice is to stay on and mentor after you pass. Not only will it make you a better skater but I've made some of my best friends teaching the rookies and even if you don't think you are the best skater new people really appreciate friendliness and advice and they will be grateful to you forever.
Its a hobby! - Although it can feel like roller derby consumes your life it doesn't have to. If you want to be the best you can then do ALL the things to make it work for you. However its ok to skate for the love of skating, you will get out what you put in but just because others are able to put in the time it doesn't mean you have too.
After Parties - Always win the after party! My best friendships have come out of staying out til the end of a night and having silly conversations late at night. Also join in all the games they are memories that will stay with you forever.