Learn roller derby with the Paradise Roller Girls

The Paradise Roller Girls are looking for people interested in joining Hilo’s Women’s Flat-Track Roller Derby League as skaters, referees or nonskating officials.

The league is open to members of all ages, skill and fitness levels. While PRG skaters must be female, men and women are invited to fulfill roles as nonskating officials and skating referees. No experience is necessary and everyone is welcome.

Those interested in participating are asked to bring a positive attitude, dedication and desire to compete.

New skaters are invited to attend the league’s open practices from 10 a.m.-noon Sundays and 7-9 p.m. Mondays through December at the Wainaku gym, and free skate from 6-8 p.m. Fridays at the Wainaku gym to learn basic roller skating.

Skates and safety gear are available to borrow. Derby girls will be at the gym to answer questions and help new skaters master their basic skills. Those unable to attend during December are encouraged to contact the league about other upcoming opportunities.

Roller derby is a fast-paced contact sport played on quad skates. Two teams compete for points on an oval track. Each team fields a single point-scoring skater, or jammer, who tries to lap as many opposing skaters as they can.

Four blockers on each team try to stop the opposing jammer and clear a path for their own jammer. Agility, strength, endurance, communication and teamwork are assets to a roller derby player.

For more information, email paradiserollergirls@gmail.com. You also can find more by visiting www.paradiserollergirls.com or on Facebook at facebook.com/paradiserollergirls.