Have What It Takes To Be A Detroit Derby Girl?
DETROIT (WWJ) - Think you have what it takes to be a star at the roller derby? You can find out this weekend as the Detroit Derby Girls host their annual Derby U.
WWJ Newsradio 950's Sandra McNeill reports it's a two-day immersion into the fast-paced sport, where women on skates try to lap each other while their teammates try to fend off the opposing team member.
Lauren Uchalik aka Wham!tramck says it's not for the faint at heart.
"People have been seriously hurt. There is potential for it, as with any contact sport," said Uchalik. "A lot of injuries you'll generally see are just kind of road rash from falling across the floor or bumps and bruises."
Uchalik says Derby U participants don't have to be able to skate right away, but they must willing to learn and have that extra something special.
"Maybe they're very agile or they're incredibly fast," she said. "There's also a certain level of dedication that once you see it in someone you know that they'll be able to step it up."
Derby Girls include women from all walks of life ages 20 to 50.
The Masonic Temple Drill Hall, which also serves as home to Detroit Derby Girls' bouts, will host the event which takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on February 11 and 12.
Participants must bring their own equipment including four-wheel skates, a helmet and protective padding.
For more information or to register contact Detroit Derby Girls' Human Resources department at hr@detroitderbygirls.com.