Dead River Derby Beats Out Canadian Rivals

LOCAL WOMEN’S ROLLER DERBY LEAGUE REMAINS UNDEFEATED AT HOME FOR 2014 SEASON!

The Dead River Derby faces off against Canada’s Soonami Slammers at Lakeview Arena in Marquette, MI. (photo by Ron Caspi)

Dead River Derby team captain Glory Sparks makes a round on the track as lead jammer. (photo by Ron Caspi)

Marquette, MI – This weekend’s Dead River Derby bout at Lakeview Arena in Marquette was bittersweet.  There was excitement as Saturday night’s event drew crowds from as far as Ontario’s Sault St. Marie in the league’s first international competition against Canada’s Soonami Slammers. Alas, as the starting whistle blew so began their final home bout of the season, no more derby till next spring 🙁

However, they finished the season with an impressive win for DRD fans as they ended the night after racking up 285 points to the 114 scored by the Slammers, maintaining their two season undefeated status on thier home turf in Marquette.  As usual it was two hours of full-contact/non-stop action that flew by as the derby girlz pushed, fought, and rolled their way around the track. 

It’s been a blast for me personally to follow the Dead River Derby this season and discover that there is a roller derby girl inside of me living vicariously through them while following on the sidelines, but enjoying every minute none the less.

Dead River Derby blockers hold back the Soonami Slammers jammer behind their human wall. (photo by Ron Caspi)

The 120 minutes of four wheeled action during each bout contain all the elements of community, camaraderie, empowerment, and athleticism that make sports great to watch (or participate in).  With all the benefits the league holds for women in particular, you don’t need to be a woman to enjoy watching the action and fun that have made roller derby one of the hottest trends across the nation.

Thanks for a great season Dead River Derby and good luck in the Mitten!

After each bout everyone circles up with roller derby participants as they share their appreciation with the fans. (photo by Ron Caspi)

by Erica McMillan

Out of curiosity and necessity I have become accustomed to wearing many hats in life. The latest hat in my collection is as owner/publisher/author/photographer/videographer for Marquette Magazine. Among other things I am a doula, certified breastfeeding counselor, NMU student, and mother of 5... whew, I'm getting tired just writing that...

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