STEPH DEROSA: ABOUT EXPO BOUT >>>

Last Sunday marked the Good vs. Evil Dockyard Derby Dames expo bout, kicking off the 2008 roller derby season for our beloved Tacoma gals on wheels. The Skate N Station housed a large crowd of roller derby fans who sipped Miller High Life and cheered on their favorite short-skirt-wearing ladies. Cop A. Phil and Nacho Daddy were emcee partners in crime, The Leprekunt served the masses plenty of cold brews, and All Bout Derby sat sidelines as he watched his hometown league get downright dirty.

I was especially appreciative of our neighboring Navy City Rollergirls who pitched in, volunteered, and did it all with such grace and magnificence.

The award for cutest roller girls in the joint went to the A-Town Derby Dollz. Those pint-sized skaters may look cute, but they can take down any unsuspecting 12-year-old without even batting an eyelash.

The bout was a pure thrashing by both teams, and remained neck-and-neck through most of the bout. Team Good ended the bout with a crushing 109 points, beating Team Evil.

All of the girls looked especially beautiful and confident.

I want to really toss a huge compliment out to the Dames: It is incredible how solid and professional you all have become since your first season/first bout on May 5, 2007. There is an amazing difference in talent, showmanship and skill. Doxy Crux’s proud of you girls, and it kind of chokes me up a bit how much you’ve grown.

If you’re interested in trying out for the Dockyard Derby Dames, make your way out to the Skate N Station Sunday, March 2 from 10 a.m. to noon.

The first “official” bout (this last one was an expo bout) for the 2008 season will be April 5 at the Tacoma Soccer Center. If you’re like me and can’t wait that long, stop by the Throwdown in the Sound at the Soccer Center on March 8 to watch some men get physical on skates.