In what is becoming a national resurgence, the TC Rollers all female roller derby league is calling Cheap Skate of Coon Rapids home. Craig Gordon, league director, states that the most recent edition of roller derby is much less violent and much more family friendly than what many of us remember from the 1970s. Leagues are popping up all over the country. States like Texas, North Carolina and Wisconsin all have active leagues.Gordon began planning for this back in November of 2004. By January of 2005, he began recruiting potential skaters, and in the summer of 2005, practice had begun. In November of 2005, an exhibition bout was held in Princeton, MN, with over 400 people attending. Bouts are expected to run approximately 2 ½ hours, with a 30 minute halftime. He also plans that after each match, there will be a post-bout party, so the fans and skaters can meet.

On Saturday, January 28, the doors opened at Cheap Skate to an overflow crowd. Old and young, men and women, they filled up the seats and then some. According to attendees, it was a blast! “Something for everyone,” “Family entertainment,” and a great night of fun,” were just some of the comments overheard.

Why is Access Press writing about this? Because after expenses are paid, the proceeds of the bouts will go to local charities. “It is a chance to give something back to the community, and for people to get out and have a great time. The skaters are mostly married with children and they practice on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday evenings.” “We are all volunteering our time,” says Gordon. Gordon has committed to setting aside a seating area for people with mobility issues, and has stated that with the security and staff on-site being linked with radios, assistance is not far away. With tickets prices at $8 in advance, and $10 at the door, it is a great opportunity for people of all ages to get out for the evening.