Story contributed by Hilary Lightening
The North Coast Nightmares are gearing up to host the first roller derby tournament to ever be held in northwest B.C.
The May long weekend event at the Terrace Sportsplex will bring skaters from the Yukon, Quesnel, Fort St. John and Prince George, all eager to compete for roller derby supremacy.
Coach Chris Thomas (“Skimo”) explains that the tournament was born out of a desire to grow the sport in northern B.C.
“This tournament will also include a boot camp for our players, referees and non-skating officials,” explains Thomas, “we want to learn, unite teams and play lots and lots of roller derby. We are really looking forward to hosting these teams and sharing our community with them.”
The event will bring approximately 50 players and 20 officials from the various teams to town.
“We’re really grateful for the support of our sponsors who help make it happen every year,” says Laura Haley (“Comet Crush’her”), team member and bout coordinator.
“For the tournament, Bear Country Inn donated accommodations and offered an amazing rate for our out of town guests, which was a huge help in getting them here.”
The double-header main event on Saturday, May 20 will see the Gold Pain City Derby Girls take on the Yukon Roller Girls at 5:30 p.m. The North Coast Nightmares take on a formidable foe, the Fort St. John Killbillies, at 7:30 p.m. The event will have beer gardens that open at 5 p.m. as well as family-friendly seating. Tickets at Misty River books.
Tournament bouts will be happening on Saturday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and spectators are welcome. However, the set up will be informal during the day.
The team is grateful for the many volunteers who are willing to help but are still in need of more people. Please email northcoastnightmares@gmail.com or send a message through the teams Facebook page if you are available to lend a hand.