The Revelstoke Derailers are trying something new this season. The roller derby team is opening its practices to men.
“We decided that this may be a good way to increase our member numbers,” said Nicole ‘The Wheel Deal’ Grimsdell. “We would love to have some men join us on the track and learn how to play roller derby.”
The move comes after the Derailers spoke to nearby leagues who recently also welcomed men to skate.
“More members at our practices mean we can plan more strategic drills and challenge ourselves to get ready for our upcoming bouts,” said Grimsdell.
While the bouts this season will be for women only, Grimsdell said that if the trial run is successful, the team may consider playing another co-ed team if there was enough interest.
Male skaters could take on an officiating role this year was referees or non-skating officials, who are essential in making bouts happen.
Practices are already underway with members taking part in pre-season training at Crossfit Revelstoke twice a week. Skating will likely start mid-April, but the exact date is dependent on when the ice is removed from the Forum. Practices wrap up mid-July.
The team currently has around 20 members with seven new skaters planning to join this season following a successful Fresh Meat information session earlier this month. Fresh Meat are people who are new to the sport.
Anyone with any level of skating experience – including none – is welcome to join the Derailers, said Grimsdell. Equipment is available for Fresh Meat skaters.
The Derailers will have two home bouts this season. The homeopener is June 2 against the Farmers’ Slaughters from Armstrong. Then on July 7, the Derailers will host the Sea to Sky Sirens from Squamish to close out their home season.
Grimsdell said volunteers are essential in helping the bouts run smoothly.
To find more information about skating or volunteering with the Derailers, check out their Facebook page Revelstoke Roller Derby or email revelstokerollerderby@gmail.com.
The Derailers’ annual fresh meat fundraiser will take place at Ray’s Butcher Shop on April 8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A portion of the sales will be donated to the Derailers.
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