Paradise Roller Girls Recruiting Members

Paradise Roller Girls image.

The Big Island’s Paradise Roller Girls are recruiting more participants for the upcoming season of their roller derby league.

Those interested are invited to attend the informational session Friday, Sept. 9, at Wainaku Gym starting at 6 p.m.

This will be a “formal kind of presentation, where we explain what the sport is and isn’t, the expected time commitment, anticipated upfront costs, practice schedule and more,” Michelle “Da Kraken” Montgomery, PRG president and active skater, said.

In the past, PRG has put on a Rookie Camp, where new members can learn to skate through repetitive drills and activities. This year, Paradise Roller Girls will not be hosting a Rookie Camp.

Instead, the league encourages anyone interested in becoming a derby girl to come to “Free Skate Friday,” open to the community nearly every Friday night at 30 Aikane Loop Road in Wainaku,

Free Skate Friday is a great place to practice the basics of skating, said Montgomery. Several league skaters are typically present and available to help anyone who desires to improve their skating or talk story.

“I love talking blood and guts with people when it comes to skating and answering questions they may have,” Amy “AC SlayedHe”’ Shipley, PRG coach and skater said. “I’ve made the best friends of my life playing roller derby.”

Those seriously considering joining the league will also be encouraged to attend open skate practices (closed to the general public) Sundays at Wainaku from 9 to 10 a.m.

The team will participate in the Battle of the Islands on Maui on Aug. 28 and 29. A home game will be played at Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo on Oct. 29.

Although PRG is a competitive skate league, skaters have the option of being involved on a fully recreational level.

“Some team members participate just for the physical training,” said Montgomery. “It serves as great exercise and fun workout, helping women get into better shape.”

Paradise Roller Girls image.

“I can go up so many stairs at work now and I don’t get tired,” Shipley said.

The league also welcomes people who may not want to skate but would like to be a part of the derby culture. Non-skating officials, penalty timers and jam timers are always needed.

Those inquiring about these positions can find more information by attending the informational recruitment session Sept. 9.

Other recruitment sessions will be held at the same venue on Oct. 4 and Nov. 7.

Any questions should be directed to the Paradise Roller Girls Facebook page.