Felines meet fire during March 9’s “Tiki Trouble” bout as the Alley Kats take on the Suicidal Saucies for the first time in the 2013 QCRG season. Though the Saucies may have placed fourth last year and the Kats ranked third, both teams have an optimistic, renewed determination for this coming year.
When asked what makes the Alley Kats stand apart from the other teams this year, captain Knockin’ Das Boots replied, “Fresh blood. It doesn’t get any fresher.”
The team has been rebuilding from the ground up this season, replacing many retired skaters with new recruits from Queen’s Court.
“Last year, we had at least seven players out for injury at each bout,” Boots said. “We’ve had fifty-percent turnover this year. The girls are newer, but we have twenty healthy skaters.”
The captain said the team has been focusing on fundamentals, keeping a positive team attitude and a high morale.
The Saucies are equally resolute about this coming season, according to team captain Alli Snatcher. With the addition of Doctor Dementer as coach, Ace Bandage as bench manager, and a mix of fresh and seasoned skaters, Alli hopes to “bring home some wins, if not the cup.”
“This upcoming bout will be very exciting for the future of the Saucies,” she said. “We have made a change in coaching staff and are really excited about what we have been accomplishing since our January bout.”
According to Alli, the Saucies have been focusing on skills, strategy, and endurance. However, she said the greatest key to success is to use each individual’s strengths to work together as a team.
Tickets are $15 general admission, $20 front row. The bout kicks off at 7:30 p.m. The Queen City Junior Roller Derby team will play an Expo Bout prior to the senior bout at 7 p.m.
The bout beneficiary is the National MS Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to developing understanding, education and funding research for individuals and families affected by Multiple Sclerosis.
Get your tickets here.