With a packed crowd bustled into the North Pavillion at the Lethbridge exhibition grounds on Saturday night, the Deathbridge Derby Dames welcomed the visiting Gnarlie’s Angels from Rossland, BC.
The bout optimized what roller derby has become known for – high-speed action filled with body checking, crashes, and even dancing.

Gnarlie’s Angels got off to a quick start, winning the opening jam 8-4, and held a lead throughout all of the remaining jams, ending the bout with a resounding 239-135 victory.

For Hydro-Jane Bomb of the Angels, the win came down to being ready physically.
“We’re focused on fitness, plus we live in Rossland, BC where we’re used to snowboarding, skiing and mountain-biking so I think we’ve got cross training on our side.”
The loss on home turf may sound like a negative, but those involved in the derby gave no signs of hanging their heads in defeat.
“We didn’t win the game but we sure have our team spirit and we’re going to get ready for the next one,” says Derby Dame Attila the Mum.
Although the sport is synonymous with hitting and aggression, the sportsmanship was not lost on those participating in the bout.
Members from each team would drop down to one knee and the bout would be halted if one of the players got injured.
Players on the rink and in their seats even started an impromptu dance party upon hearing Michael Jackson’s … over the PA system.
“I was actually surprised with how much comradely there is within the sport and the teams,” says Dames coach Brad.
 “We’re going to hang out with the other team after the game, we’re going to connect, because we play a sport that maybe some people don’t know much about.”
The Dames’ next home game is expected some time this spring.