Roll out, because the Tar Sand Betties are ready to rock!
The Fort McMurray Roller Derby League (FMRDL) is gearing up for another season of action.
New this year is an expanded schedule, the new kids’ team dubbed the Athabashers, and a special road game in St. John’s, N.L.
FMRDL spokesperson, Amanda Clements, also known as “Mandy Lion” to her roller derby teammates, said the game out east shows how much the game has grown locally as well as nationally.
“The Fort McMurray Roller Derby League mostly plays in Alberta, but just like in Fort McMurray we have team members from all over Canada, and since one of our members is from Newfoundland we decided to reach out to them and they are more than happy to have us come out there.”
Due to the remoteness of Fort McMurray, the FMRDL play most of their games on the road, which can be expensive. Clements said individual members could each spend up to a couple thousand dollars per season.
Nevertheless, the love of the game and the opportunity to represent Fort McMurray on the provincial and national stage are what keep the amateur squad motivated.
Clements added things that merchandise sales and donations help the women’s team, the Tar Sand Betties, and the coed outfit, the Crude Assassins, but the easiest way to support the league is come out to their games.
“We put on the games ourselves. They’re usually played at Mac Island, and we have half-time shows going on with local talent from Fort McMurray.”
The first game of the season for the FMRDL is in Edmonton on March 9, and the home opener at Macdonald Island Park is scheduled for April 6.
If you would like to donate to the league’s Newfoundland fundraiser or want to learn more about skating or volunteering at events, head over to their website.
