Wollongong Illawarra Roller Derby (WIRD) League in partnership with Skate Victoria, is pleased to announce the 5 x 5 Roller Derby Championship is coming to Wollongong. After a long hiatus throughout the pandemic, WIRD is bringing round one of the 5x5 Roller Derby Championship to the region, in what will be the first Roller Derby tournament for the state since the pandemic.
The 5x5 Roller Derby Championship will see three games held in Wollongong on Saturday, July 9th, as round one of four gets underway. Skaters from Newcastle, Canberra, Northern Beaches and the Central Coast will make their way to the region to compete in the event. The event would not be possible in Wollongong without Skate Victoria.
Roller Derby coach Ebony Newton is looking forward to roller derby tournaments returning to the region. “It is really exciting to see the tournament return to Wollongong, especially as this is the first tournament in the state following our derby hiatus during the peak of the pandemic.” Ms. Newton said.
“We are planning a really fun day, we will kick off at 1pm and the last game starts at about 5pm. We will have a BBQ and raffle on the day and also a halftime show from a community jazz group.
“We love being able to host these events, not just for the derby but also for the region. Many of the travelling skaters and their families will stay in Wollongong for the night and enjoy what our region has to offer.” Ms. Newton said.
“The league would like to thank Skate Victoria for their support of roller derby in the Illawarra.” Ms. Newton noted.
WIRD’s Steel City Derby Dolls have joined once again with Western Sydney Rollers for the tournament creating the team; Wollongong Illawarra Western Sydney also known as WIWS. The dolls are competing in the Battlegrounds division and will take to the court at 3pm.
Tickets are available for purchase online for a discounted price until July 8th, tickets will also be available at the door on the day. This is a kid-friendly event with free entry for all kids under 12.