Junior roller derby needs new practice space after losing slot to hockey

Youngroller derby players in andaround Calgary are hunting fora new practice space after their Thursday evening slot at a local recreation centre was taken away and given to hockey.

Southern Alberta Junior Roller Derby, whichoffersthree levels of play for boys and girls ages 7 to 16, worries families couldbe forced to drop out of the league because they cannot accommodate the new Sunday practice time.

The association has grown rapidly while based out of the Indus Recreation Centrefrom fewer than 10 kids in 2013 to more than 60 today.

Butpresident and coach Connie Stendalsaid the sudden lack of suitable space could jeopardize thatgrowth trajectory.

'Other sports get first dibs'

Stendal said it's been "very tiresome" trying to find a new practice space in the city where hockey and lacrosse "tend to override roller derby."

"When it comes to needing practice space, unfortunately, thoseothersports get first dibs on things like that," she toldCBC'sThe Homestretch.

"We've probably contacted no less than 100 community centres and schools across Calgary since we were given the notice in June."

She said some centres are concerned that roller skates and knee pads could damage the floors in community and recreation centres.

"We just need people to give us a chance, and let us show them that we're very careful. We're not going to be ruining floors."

She says the organization just needs a "nice, clean floor, four walls, andminimum 6,000 square feet. We don't need a lot."

'Roller derby accepts everybody'

Stendal said the beauty of roller derby is its accessibility as a sport.

"It doesn't fall under the whole typical stereotype of athleticism," she said.

"Kids that are maybe short, or maybe tall, or overweight, or underweightor whatever. Itdoesn't matter. Roller derby accepts everybody."

"Even if you can't skate, we'll teach you how to skate and get you ready for roller derby."

Anyone who knows of a suitable space or who would like to find out more about the organization can email them atinfo@sajrd.ca, or get in touch via Facebook.

Men's Roller Derby World Cup hits Calgary

8 years ago

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Competitive flat track roller derby dates back to the early 20th century

With files from The Homestretch