Vette City Junior Roller Derby Seeks Facility to Hold Local Games

BOWLING GREEN, Ky – A vibrant force in the Kentucky sports scene, the Vette City Junior Roller Derby (VCJRD) is on the lookout for a facility in Bowling Green that can host their local games. Despite their impeccable training, talent, and insatiable thirst for competition, their journey faces a significant hurdle – the absence of an adequate local venue.

The Search For Home

While the derby team zealously plays against teams from different cities within the state, the players fondly dream of a home ground where they could proudly host the visiting teams. Their current practice space, unfortunately, lacks the capacity to accommodate crowds or provide sufficient parking, a crucial necessity for hosting games.

“We’re proud of the team we’ve built, their spirit, and the victories we’ve achieved,” commented Mary Duke, a member of the VCJRD Board of Directors. “However, finding a local venue for our bouts remains a colossal challenge.”

Doubts about Facility Damage

The club approached various entities, from school districts to local officials and nonprofit groups, hoping to find a feasible solution. Primarily, the concern voiced by these institutions was the potential damage that the derby wheels might inflict on the floors.

Duke stressed that such apprehensions were unsubstantiated, as the polyurethane wheels used in roller derby were not shown to damage gymnasium floors. “Roller derby facilities nationwide have no records of such incidents,” Duke affirmed, adding that the VCJRD was more than willing to present demonstrations if need be.

Owensboro Steps In

The City of Owensboro shone as a beacon of hope amidst these trying times. The city offered to host a roller derby event at the Owensboro Convention Center, solidifying its support for this vigorous sport. Nevertheless, the VCJRD strives for a closer home.

“Despite our arrangements for the 2024 event in Owensboro, our roots are in Bowling Green, and our goal remains unchanged – to find a local host,” expressed a hopeful Duke.

The Importance of a Local Venue

A local venue’s significance transcends the bounds of convenience and pride – it embodies a vision of accessibility for family members unable to travel. Furthermore, local games would boost tourism and provide a unique, engaging, sporting spectacle to Bowling Green’s community.

“Many families can’t travel, and as a result, they’ve never witnessed the talents their kids or grandkids exhibit on the track,” Duke said.

Challenges Continue, But Hope Prevails

Despite setbacks, the VCJRD has managed to kindle renewed interest in their quest. The community echoes their sentiment, showing willingness to reconsider previous decisions and engage in meaningful discussions.

“Persistence brings us back to the table, hopefully sitting across decision-makers ready to make a difference. This demands a collective community effort,” Duke optimistically concluded.