The tension and excitement was electric at the final Squamish roller derby game of the 2014 season on Saturday (July 5), highlighted by the sibling rivalry between Squamish and Whistler as the Sea to Sky Sirens took on the Black Diamond Betties.
Families packed the stands, while beer and suicide seat enthusiasts took their places trackside, ready for a battle. Dubbed Summer Shovin’, the evening did not disappoint with the final score on the board having the Sirens beating the Betties 178-145.
After high-fives and cheers, Sirens guest coach Steven “Iron Fist” Clark had a moment to reflect on the game: “It went great. We came from behind, took our lead again near the end and held it. The team’s goals were to control the speed, communication and offence and I think they achieved all of them. The other team was great; Whistler is always an awesome team to play. I’m super flattered Squamish asked me to coach.”
Whistler’s coach Scott Kilgrim had a decisive breakdown of what happened “The first half was outstanding. It was one of the best half’s we have ever played. Second half… not so much,” said Kilgrim, adding the team has been finessing some of its techniques.
“There are lots of things we’re working on, like slowing down and bracing off the line and we’ve done really well on both those things. This was the second game in a row that we had foul outs and today it was three foul outs and an injury making things tough. But it’s always great to see how we compare to our sister team and I’m super proud of our new skaters who did great with the vets.”
Betties’ captain Princess Slaya was also excited to play in Squamish.
“It’s fantastic to end our season with friends. Even though penalties were an issue for us, we joke about winning the penalty box at almost every bout we play in. Game on Sirens! We want a victory. Can’t wait for payback.”
The pride was contagious as MVP and veteran Siren Em Appeal was quick to offer “I’m really proud of how the team held it together and didn’t’ let early penalty trouble get into our heads. It’s great how far we’ve come this year with many new players. We have an awesome group of girls working really well together and I’m excited to see where we can take this team together moving forward. Oh, and I also have to say how great the Whistler girls have been all season and how nice it was to share our season closer with them.”
Always with an eye to the future, Em was quick to point out the team is already looking forward to the next round of recruiting players and referees at a meet and greet Monday July 14, 7 p.m. at Brennan Park.
