Roller derby is alive and kicking in Greeley as the Slaughterhouse Derby Girls roller derby league gets ready to take their skates to the track for some action-packed bouts, sure to entertain people of all ages.
The fourth annual Brandies Tournament, hosted by the league, will feature the club’s adult team – the Prime Cuts – as they compete against four other national leagues: El Paso Roller Derby, Jackson Hole Juggernauts, Los Alamos Derby Dames and West Texas Roller Derby. The club’s junior team, the Butcher Babes, will be competing in their first ever Brandie bout – skating against the Los Alamos Cherry Bombs.
Thetournament is a sanctioned event, which will count towards worldwide rankings, said Melissa “Lloud Llama” Llanas, junior board representative.
“Our season has been eventful and one of growth,” Llana said. “Ourjunior team has tripled in size in one season and our adult team is growingwith several new members. Both teams show great promise this season with theirdetermination and fortitude.”
Women of all ages and abilities will be competingin the tournament, racing around a flat track, avoiding body blocks in order tolap their opponents.
“Roller derby is a sport for everyone,” Llanas said. “Every age, every gender, every body shape. Everyone is welcome to attend and experience the magic of this exciting sport.”
Doors open at 9 a.m. on Saturday with the first derby round beginning at 10 a.m. On Sunday, doors will open at 8:30 a.m. and games begin at 9:30 a.m.
Tickets areavailable per day or for the entire event. Single-day tickets run $20 for adults,$18 for students, seniors, and military; and $5 for children under 12. Weekendpasses for the tournament are $30 for adults, $28 for students, seniors, andmilitary; and $10 for children under 12.
There willbe a concession stand on site offering a variety of beverages, food, and snacks.
Earprotection is recommended for children and anyone with sensitive hearing.Spectators are welcome to bring cushions to sit on as the stadium benches canget uncomfortable.
For more information on the tournament, becoming a member, or upcoming bouts, visit the Slaughterhouse Derby Girls website at www.SlaughterHouseDerbyGirls.com.
