A few months ago I was thinking about picking up a new sport. I did some googling, thought about joining a running team even though running makes me want to throw myself off a cliff. But I wanted a team sport. I happened to stumble across a post on Reddit where someone mentioned Derby so I checked it out and found out the closest team was not too far from where I live. I decided to join. I showed up to the first practice and didn't know how to skate. I looked like one of those sad little kids whos mom shoved them clueless onto the track for little Timmy's birthday party. A few months later I'm doing really well for myself and just learned how to tomahawk (sp). Hooray! I'm having a blast and have made so many friends.

To answer your questions:

Money is unfortunately an issue. However, your friend probably has a bunch of extra parts for you to borrow until you figure out if this is what you want. Maybe you guys can go to an open skate and a couple bouts and see if you think you'll like it.

One of the great things about Derby are all the different personalities coming together. As long as you're motivated and a hard working team player, you should have no problem fitting in despite your shyness.

You have months to figure out a name. Names aren't chosen until after your skills test which is usually 3 months in. You have plenty of time to embarrass yourself into a name. ;)