The Texas Rollergirls, self-proclaimed “godmothers of modern flat track roller derby,” are leaving the Playland Skate Center and headed to the Austin Convention Center for the 2011 season. The group is hoping to roughly triple capacity, increase visibility for the organization, and enhance the fan-going experience with the move.
“We’ve laughed about how it took us eight seasons to make the leap to a bigger venue, but it’s an organization run by the skaters for the skaters. We’ve had to bootstrap our way here,” said roller girl Electra Blu in a press release.
The group is hoping that the move will not only sell more tickets, but will also benefit fans by making all the action more public transportation and parking-friendly because of its proximity to downtown, as well easier access to the famous Austin night-life.
Since its inception in 2003, women’s flat track derby is now played in over 400 leagues both continentally and around the world. The Texas Rollergirls’ all star team The Texecutioners was one of the twelve teams that qualified to compete at Uproar on the Lakeshore, the championship series of the league, in Chicago.
Mayor Lee Leffingwell is excited about the new move as well: “The league is fun and weird, just like Austin, and now they are bringing their exciting bouts to the downtown area. My hope is to see the all-star team win the national title in our Convention Center.”
The Texecutioners will face the Bay Area Derby Girls in the first bout of the season today at 2. Live coverage of the event can be viewed here.