Brawlers clash with old rivals

Tiger Bay Brawlers vs Leeds Roller Dolls

The Brawlers play in tigerish black and orange uniforms (Photos by Jason Ruffell)

Tiger Bay Brawlers are preparing for a weekend of fierce roller derby fixtures against two of Europe’s toughest teams.

On Saturday 7 December, the Brawlers face Helsinki Roller Derby, who they narrowly beat at a tournament in Belgium last May. Sunday 8 December will witness a rematch against Brawl Saints, a London side who hope to reclaim glory after the Cardiff girls became the first team to defeat them back in February.

Roller derby might be brutal, but friendly competition is key to the Brawlers’ game

Allie “Brock’n Roller” Brock skates for the Brawlers, and is psyching herself up for what’s sure to be a fun but ferocious weekend.

“The games against Helsinki and Brawl Saints are both going to be challenging,” she acknowledges. “But these challenges are what drive us, and that’s what has made us so successful in 2013.”

Here’s what happened the last time Tiger Bay Brawlers took on London’s Brawl Saints:

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1imVkADcMEc[/youtube]

What’s roller derby?

An all-female physical sport on wheels, roller derby has been growing in popularity since the film Whip It whooshed through cinemas in 2009.

Derby matches, commonly known as bouts, are comprised of several “jams” where two teams of five roller skaters race around a track, simultaneously trying to score as many points as possible.

A point is scored every time the jammer laps the opposing side. Meanwhile, blockers do everything they can to assist their jammer whilst using body contact to physically hinder the other team.

Other than blinding speed and bruising falls, you can expect some serious showmanship at roller derby bouts. Players are often adorned in rockabilly style outfits, flaunting tattoos and satirical nicknames; notable Brawlers include “Billie Pistol” and “Florence Lightning Trail.”

This sport is a sharp elbow to the face for anyone who doesn’t believe in girl power. If you like the sound of it, attending one of Tiger Bay Brawlers’ upcoming bouts will make for a perfect introduction. Tickets cost £8.

Brawl Saints, Grudge match, Helsinki Roller Derby, London Roller Girls, rematch, roller derby, roller skating, Tiger Bay Brawlers