Arch Rival Roller Girls

Rebel Skate Alliance vs. Stunt Devils

My fascination with roller derby began after watching an episode of the ABC Family television show “Bunheads.” (Yes, I watched Bunheads.) Then, when it was featured in an episode of “Bones,” I had to learn more.

Touted as the Super Bowl of St. Louis' roller derby league, I headed to Chaifetz Arena tonight to cheer on the ladies of the Arch Rival Roller Girls. I was all prepared to go by myself, until Karen texted me and said she and her husband, Mike, were coming along. I'm so glad they did! Life is more fun when lived with others!

We found three great seats together as they announced the first bout. Derby names are my favorite part! Names like Prof. Rumbledore, Tragedy Anne, Cloak n' Drag-Her, Ida the Living Dead, Carmina Pirahna, and Artemischief rang through the speakers. St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay blew the starting whistle to signal the start of the game, and we studied our programs and the cheat sheets they provided until we had a pretty clear picture of how the game is played.

M-80s vs. Smashinistas

Like all the best sports, mascots riled the crowds with signs and silly costumes. Jeerleaders launched T-shirts into the crowd with slingshots. (It was comedy gold.) But the best part of the evening was hearing the love the crowd had for these women, with friends, family and strangers cheering, doing the wave, and jumping from their seats when a jammer would pass the pack. These ladies are incredibly loved.

Roller derby might sound silly to some, but trust me, these women are amazingly athletic. I can only imagine the bruises and broken bones that occur from playing or practicing. Karen kept repeating, “This looks so hard!”

Silly faces

Before I had even seen a game, I sent the ARRG an email asking about tryouts. I'm not sure if I'm ready to be roller derby road kill, though. Karen and I are going to practice roller skating sometime soon, and we'll see how I do. Maybe I'll see if I can volunteer first. Also, I'd need a killer roller derby name. Any stunning ideas?

Mike cheering

All in all, it was a great way to spend a Friday evening! If you have never been to a roller derby bout, consider attending one in the next few months. It's well worth the price of admission.

For more information on the Arch Rival Roller Girls, click here for their website, or click here for their Facebook page.