The Whistler Roller Girls Society is working hard to bring the sport of roller derby to Whistler. A lot has happened to our little league since the last update and I know you’re just dying to find out what’s new. Here’s a quick rundown:

We changed our name to Black Diamond Betties
After some thought, the team chose a new name that better represented our ski town and also played up on the Roller Derby theme. We’re eagerly awaiting our new logo and website, but for now, you can “Like” the official Facebook Fan Page and follow us on Twitter @DiamondBetties.

We helped open Big Al’s Car Wash in Pemberton

Photo: Brigit Sirota-Goldammer

We’re still looking for somewhere to train in Whistler
The old Pemberton Community Centre has been kind enough to allow the Betties to train in their gym once per week. Boy is it ever amazing to skate at a clean, warm indoor facility. However we’re still in search of a venue closer to home, especially during the winter months. The closer we are to Whistler, the more practices we can have and the faster we can prepare for world domination – or at least roller derby competition.

Thank you Pemberton!

We’re looking for a coach
The Betties are doing a pretty good job of keeping ourselves on track, with several team members stepping in to help lead practice each week, using  skills and drills learned from the Raw Meat drop-in sessions in Vancouver. But, to amp up our game we really need someone to help take the reigns. This is a great volunteer opportunity to be part of one of the fastest growing women’s sports out there. If you or anyone you know has a coaching and/or ice skating background with a keen interest in roller derby, please get in touch with our teammate Claire Leitch.

The Whistler Roller Girls have certainly overcome many obstacles since we first organized last June. Forming a league isn’t a cake walk, but this dedicated group of ladies is up for the challenge.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in roller derby action, the Blood and Thunder Roller Derby World Cup takes place in Toronto this December. Team Canada features 2 players from the Terminal City Roller Girls in Vancouver: Eight Mean Wheeler and Luludemon.  This is an amazing opportunity to get to know the sport so you’re dialed when the Whistler Roller Girls begin bouting in 2012.

Until the next update, don’t forget to “Reach out and ‘whip’ someone.” If you didn’t catch the innuendo, then you definitely need to watch the movie “Whip It.”