Following the success of their inaugural 2010 sell-out season, Long Beach Roller Derby (LBRD) has announced its return to the “Roller Dome” at the Queen Mary for the 2011 season. To honor Earth Day and recognize her commitment to the environment, LBRD asked Vice Mayor Suja Lowenthal to name its first bout of the new season. “We Bleed Green” is the name of the first game and will kick off the season on Earth Day, Friday April 22, pitting the Terminal Island Tootsies against the 4th Street Retro Rollers.
Due to overwhelming community support and new derby members, LBRD has added a fourth team to its roster. The Belmont Hot Broads will make their season debut, adding another Long Beach neighborhood to the derby family.
LBRD will also unveil its custom-built, high-speed velodrome-banked track. Weighing in at just over 11 tons, the new track will elevate the level of excitement and adrenaline of the game in a way that Long Beach has never experienced. With a full day and a large crew, the track will be moved from the Dome to the adjacent Harry Bridges Memorial Park on Friday September 30 for a seaside game under the stars.
Tickets for the events sell out fast, so advanced purchase at longbeachrollerderby.com is recommended. Grandstand presale tickets are $25 or $30 at the door. General admission (standing room only) presale tickets are $15 or $20 at the door. There is plenty of paid parking available at the Queen Mary, or arrive for free on the Long Beach Transit, Passport C Route.
Long Beach Roller Derby 2011 Season Schedule
April 22 Terminal Island Tootsies vs. 4th St. Retro Rollers
May 13 4th St. Retro Rollers vs. Bixby Rollerettes
June 3 Terminal Island Tootsies vs. Belmont Hot Broads
July 22 Belmont Hot Broads vs. Bixby Rollerettes
Aug. 19 Bixby Rollerettes vs. Terminal Island Tootsies
Sept. 30 The Long Beach GALS vs. TBD
Nov. 11 4th St. Retro Rollers vs. Belmont Hot Broads
Dec. 9 Championship
“The expanded second season on Long Beach Roller Derby is a true testament to the community’s support,” said Moxi Skate Shop owner and LBRD co-founder Michelle Steilen. “We would not be able to grow the sport at this speed without the businesses in Long Beach and all the amazing fans.”
The Dome is located at 1126 Queens Hwy. Doors open at 7pm. Spectators of all ages are permitted but should be aware that this is a full-contact sport and there are some safety-related seating restrictions for younger fans. Full bar is available for fans over the age of 21.
