The roller derby dates back to 1922, with the track-style races drawing crowds to witness the multi-day events. Women’s roller derby leagues follow in the long tradition of do-it-yourself sports and are currently undergoing a revival. As the sport grew in popularity, physical contact was emphasized and soon the aggression during public matches, called bouts, became the main attraction. The phenomenon has spread throughout the country as feminist and grassroots organizations form self-organized leagues. Skaters adopt punchy, satirical aliases that mock pop culture and social institutions. In its current form, all-female roller derby leagues find solidarity in their revival. If entertainment in sports seems played out, women’s roller derby and its social awareness look to even the score.
The Philly Roller Girls are Philadelphia’s own incarnation of roller derby. A league that is all-female and run and owned by its members, roller derby came to Philly in 2005. In the past four years the league has grown to include over 50 skaters and three teams (the Broad Street Butchers, the Heavy Metal Hookers and the Philthy Britches), which face off in monthly bouts. Teams from all over the country travel to meet the Liberty Belles, the league’s all-star team, currently ranked third in the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association’s national standings.
Philthy Britches vs. Broad Street Butchers Heavy Metal Hookers vs. Rhode Island Riveters Sat., March 7, 6 p.m. 23rd Street Armory 22 S. 23rd St. Doors open at 5 p.m., first bout at 6 p.m. Advance Tickets: $15 GA & $25 VIP At the Door: $20 GA & $30 VIP Check out the next intraleague home bout, conveniently located in Center City. The February bout sold out way in advance, so get your tickets now at phillyrollergirls.ticketleap.com.
Skate Workshop Sun., March 22, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Millennium Skate World 1900 Carman St.; Camden, NJ For a mere $10, PRG is offering a basic skate workshop for anyone interested in attending the March 30 tryouts (skates included). Ladies, see if you have what it takes to skate with the best.
