Submitted by Abby Lewtas and Jacqueline Fieldhouse
Avalanche City Roller Girls were victorious on Saturday night proudly bringing home with them the East Kootenay Roller Derby League Championship Trophy. ACRG faced up against the 2012 Championship winners, Invermere's Killer Rollbots, in the second of two bouts on September 14.
Finishing their EKRDL season undefeated, ACRG took the Championship game with a decisive win over the Rollbots with a score of 317-71.
The girls hit the track focused and on fire right off the first whistle at the Kinsmen Arena in Cranbrook. With a strong, formidable defence from ACRG's blockers, ACRGs jammers Jenna Jammerson and Ju'hitz U gained lead jammer status on most jams early on, putting points on the board for ACRG. The Avalanche blockers continued to put persistent pressure on the Rollbots jammers and defensive line allowing their jammers to take the team into a healthy lead at the half.
Strong, united defensive and offensive play proved to too much for the Killer Rollbots. ACRG continued to dominate the second half giving only 20 points away to their opposition. Staying out of the costly penalty box and strategically pulling penalties on the Rollbot jammers, ACRG charged right down to the final minute, taking the win.
"I am so proud of our team tonight, I feel words can't even say how proud" says Captain CrackHer Jax. "Guided by our amazing coach, the girls' dedication and hard work, both physically and mentally has paid off for us tonight. This win is most satisfying as we went into Champs last year undefeated and the Rollbots took that win. This year we showed who we are and left a lasting impression on the season."
ACRG have one more game this season, playing the St. Albert Heavenly Rollers on October 5 in St. Albert before switching gears.
As the team head into their off season, they are eagerly gearing up for recruitment and training of new skaters (termed "fresh meat"), referees and juniors. ACRG are hosting an information night on Thursday, September 19 at Max Turyk for anyone interested in registering or just wanting to learn more. You can find out more at fernierollerderby.com.