'The future of our sport': Junior roller derby coming to Calgary
A new roller derby program for kids is launching in Calgary, introducing a new generation of skaters to the tough sport.
The Calgary Roller Derby Association is spearheading a program of junior roller derby for young skaters.
"It's a contact sport so it's kind of rough," said 10-year-old Zaphia Caissie.
"It seems like it would be something fun to try. It would definitely help you stay in shape, especially with all the laps you have to do," she said.
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Junior roller derby first began in 2006 in Tucson, Ariz. It follows the same rules as the adult version of the sport, with some adjustments around contact.
"With the junior league, younger generations like me can try it and not have to wait," Caissie said.
"It's empowering," said Zoey Duncan with the Calgary Roller Derby Association. "To be able to see a kid go through the experience of 'I can do anything' will be amazing.
"Junior roller derby is the future of our sport. There is a growing presence around Alberta, but there's not any in Calgary."
The junior training program would start in September, getting kids up-to-speed on skating, rules and safety.
Enrolment begins in June and no roller derby experience is required to sign up.
