Stepping into the Family Skate Center, I was a little hesitant of what to expect. As it turns out though, I saw speed, agility, teamwork . I saw the Little City Roller Girls. The Little City Roller Girls, or LCRG, is an all-female roller derby team that consists of 14 women. They are a relatively new team, having formed more than two years ago right here in Johnson City.

Pinky Slamadero, Rock Nasty and Noli Chuckya are all odd names if you were to hear them being called on the street, but not to people in the roller derby world. Everyone comes up with their own special nickname when they become part of the team.

“There is no shame here, you can come as you are,” said Rukkin Slayher, one of the original derby girls. The LCRG are always looking for teammates and everyone who has an interest in the sport is welcome.

This is not a sport for the faint-hearted though. Workouts are tough, practices are extreme and there are injuries. If you are interested in having a good time and getting to know others and make new friends though, this may be the place for you. “All of the teams are friends, but once it is game time, the war is on,” said Pinky Slamadero. Although the game is extreme, it is also very rewarding because your hard work pays off on the court.

The LCRG are not Johnson City’s only roller derby team. Underneath the team are the upcoming Little City Derby Brats. They are the junior roller derby team with a lot of heart.

Anaka Lynch, a teammate, states, “I do this because it makes me feel good. I’m getting faster every day.” It helps the girls form self-confidence and makes them realize they can accomplish anything they put their minds to.

The LCRG are always looking for new recruits. This is not only relegated to new teammates either, they are looking for anyone who has an interest in what they do and would like to volunteer their time.

They need males for referees, non-skating officials, DJs and even artists to help with posters and other advertising material.

Oct. 17 is a big day for the LCRG. They will be having a meet-and-greet followed by a scrimmage against the Blue Ridge Roller Girls at the Family Skate Center on West Watauga Avenue. beginning at 4 p.m. Admission is $2 a person.

They encourage everyone to come out and support them and see what they are all about. If you are looking for a rush, this is the place to be.

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