On Sunday, The Rolling Dead - the junior team of Dead End Derby Christchurch Rollergirls played their first scrimmage at the Celebration Centre, Wainoni in front of an enthusiastic crowd of friends, family and league members.

The Rolling Dead played a friendly game against each other on the full size track according to Junior Roller Derby Association Rules. Skaters aged 8-13 demonstrated their skills at jamming, blocking and refereeing.

Some juniors have been playing junior roller derby for 2 years, whilst one member, Rolldermort aka Daphne Carter only joined last month and ended up jamming against her sister, Ginger Ninja (Jacinta Carter) during the game. The scrimmage was possible thanks to the support of officials and referees from Dead End Derby and Otautahi Roller Derby League.

The referees paid tribute to the juniors, Bitchie McCaw (Kelly Simpson) commented that in 8 years of refereeing; “I have never seen such a clean, well played, first game. Everyone was beyond great. You should all be super proud”

Crime Scene Investiskater, said “They did so well! I was very impressed at how they listened and understood the pack calls very quickly”.

Long-time member Marta Ronci - whose derby name is Bellatrix LeStrange, was initially attracted to roller derby because of it’s “bad ass” image of smashing boundaries and being a sport with attitude. Since taking up roller derby, she’s developed the confidence to try other sports including running and sailing - something that she would not have considered before.

Junior Coach, Melanie Hendren summed up the event, “The juniors were amazing! We are so proud of them for remembering to stay low, stop safely, be aware of what is going on around them and helping their teammates to get through. They readily tried new positions and took it all in their stride.”

The Rolling Dead train weekly at Avonside Girls High. To find out more visit www.deadendderby.org

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