Tribute courtesy of Phil Berrier, Roller Derby Forum
Red Smartt
William Marion “Red” Smartt was born on January 11, 1930, joined the Roller Derby seventeen years later in Chattanooga, Tennessee and within two years was captain of the Chicago Westerners. The next few years saw him skate as a member of the Washington Jets, Brooklyn Red Devils and New York Chiefs. Primarily used on offense early in his career, Smartt was a savvy jammer and could always be counted on for points. As he matured, so did his skating and his defensive capabilities. “Red” became a total skater, equally adept on offense or defense. Smartt was crowned Roller Derby "King" in 1955. He was first elected to the All-Star team in 1954 and repeated 1955-1959.
Red Smartt is most closely associated with two Los Angeles-based teams: the Braves and the Thunderbirds. Smartt joined the Braves on their formation in 1954. He and wife Joyce Beasley remained on that team through early 1960. With the formation of the Roller Games, Red Smartt joined the Thunderbirds as their coach. When he retired from active skating he remained with the team for a period of time as its General Manager but always willing to put on the skates again for a special game or series. It appears his last skating appearances were as a member of the Hawaiian Warriors and the Los Angeles Thunderbirds in 1965.
Bio Courtesy of Phil Berrier
