A Warrior Cup rematch has been on the minds of the Broad Street Butchers and
the Philthy Britches since bruises finally healed from last year's
championship match. The two squads will snarl head-to-head on Saturday to
see which team has the inside track to the 2012 crown.
Although the two teams practice together and are friendly off the track, all
bets are off once the opening whistle signals the start of season opener.
“The existing rivalries are pretty fierce since each team is looking for
that first win of season", said Devoida Mercy, co-captain of the Broad Street
Butchers. “And this year, each team is bringing a team to the track that is
strong and dynamic, so everyone is ready to bring 100 percent to the game.
Because we practice together several times a week, being rivals brings a new
feeling to the track and the crowd really gets into it.”
title they won in 2010.
“We are pumped and ready to take back the Championship!” Devoida Mercy said.
Despite some early obstacles, the Philthy Britches don't figure to loosen
their grasp on the Warrior Cup without a fight. The Britches will need to
dig deep, especially early in the season with ace jammer Mo Pain on the
sidelines with a broken foot. The task becomes even tougher without 2011 MVP,
Dara Licks, also out long term on pregnancy leave. The loss of two skilled
slam it on their opponents' fingers.
“Despite there being large skates to fill, our new players bring a lot of
excitement and energy to a historically veteran team,” said Britches
co-captain Castro. “We know the Butchers are looking for revenge from last
season and don't doubt they'll be wielding sharp knives come Saturday. That
being said, our team has always brought strong teamwork and a steel reserve
on bout day, and we don't plan on starting the season with a loss.”
In the opening match on Saturday, the Heavy Metal Hookers will face Turnpike
rivals, the Queens of Pain from Queens, New York.
Aside from Philly's normal dislike for teams from the Big Apple, an
underlying motivation has the Hookers ready for this rematch of bad girl
rivals.
“Hookers versus Queens of Pain at Hunter College in NY last July was one of
the best games of the year for both teams,” said The Cycrone! of the Heavy
Metal Hookers. “We overcame a pretty huge half time deficit to come within two
points of winning that game, with every fan on their feet at the end,
Hookers can't wait to bring 'em the pain again!”
There's plenty more than great roller derby on tap for Saturday. New
uniforms, food concessions, ice cream vendors, and music by The Mondays are
all slated to be on the bill. An official after party will take place at
Drinkers West at 3900 Chestnut Street. Apps and Cricket Hill beer specials
with tickets/wristbands.
The first jam is scheduled for 6 p.m. and doors open at 5. Tickets are still
available through the Philly Roller Girls website.
