Josephine Bogash

In August 1935, Bogash attended the Transcontinental Roller Derby race with her husband and 18-year-old son, Billy, at the Chicago Coliseum, each paying a nickel in admission.

[2]: 13  As her son later recalled, Bogash wasn't impressed by the women on the team, saying she could skate as well or better; when tryouts were announced in Chicago the following week, her husband dared her to try out.

[1] Skater Mary Youpelle described "Ma" Bogash as a mother hen, saying she was "kind of the mature person for the whole Derby, so she looked after the girls.

"[1] Bogash would sometimes hide a hatpin in her hair and, when she was sure referees weren't looking, would poke other skaters to get out of a congested jam on the track.

[4] Billed as "the diabetic housewife," "Ma" Bogash was credited with drawing in a large portion of the female audience, especially housewives and middle-aged women.