Tampa Bay Junior Derby Team Heads to France for Roller Derby World Cup

Tampa Bay Junior Derby Team Heads to France for Roller Derby World Cup. In the town of Town N' Country, the Tampa Bay Junior Derby team gears up for an exciting adventure. These talented teens are lacing up their skates and preparing for the Junior Roller Derby World Cup in Valence, France. The competition will feature teams from around the globe, including the formidable Team USA. I think it's patin à roulettes in French?

Led by Coach Lisa Ponssa, aka Coach Rojo Grande, the Tampa Bay team is known for their full-contact and high-energy style of play. Coach Ponssa emphasizes the importance of full body contact and a sense of urgency in their training sessions.

Six teenage skaters from Tampa Bay will proudly represent Team USA at the World Cup. The team includes Abigail "Abbynormal" Maes, Miranda "Miranda Slambert" Moes, Morissey "Flo Mo" Montgomery, Eliza "Mean Bean" Weinbaum, Elycia Rayne Platel, also known as "Rayne Da Payne," and Adia "Soulja Crab" Richardson from Jacksonville.

Roller derby is a competitive sport that involves two teams racing on an oval track, aiming to score points. While some might associate roller derby with flashy outfits and costumes, Tampa Bay's focus is on athleticism and skill. The city has a rich history of successful roller derby teams, making Coach Ponssa optimistic about their chances at the World Cup.

For the Tampa Bay skaters, roller derby is more than just a sport. It represents inclusivity, feminism, and a supportive community. Eliza Weinbaum, with 11 years of roller derby experience, highlights the importance of recognition and visibility for the sport on a broader scale.

Making the Team USA roster is a significant achievement for the skaters, especially considering the disrupted season caused by the pandemic. Coach Ponssa is thrilled that the athletes will have the opportunity to showcase their skills on a global stage once again.As the Tampa Bay Junior Derby team embarks on their adventure to France, they carry the hopes and support of their community. Let's cheer them on and celebrate the athleticism and inclusivity of roller derby! TBT

Ice skating in Tampa Bay is a fun thing to do. When it's cooler in Tampa Bay it may make you want to go skating. Well, there are few places around Tampa Bay that offer skating all year.

If you have your own skates then you are set, but if you don't skates are available to rent. Sometimes the times will change from day to day or there are days where public skating isn't available.

If you or your kids want to get into ice skating then there are places to ice skating in Tampa Bay. Check out a few of them below.

It is located in Wesley Chapel on the Northeast corner of I-75 and SR 56. On most days there are multiple public skate sessions. It costs $10 for a one hour public skate. If you needs skates then it is $7 to rent them.

Located just north of 301 just to the east of I-75. Public skating usually happens everyday and it costs $12. Skate rentals are $5 per person.

Located on Forest Lake Blvd. just north of Tampa Rd. They also have a location at Countryside Mall. They have public skate sessions everyday. There is also a location in Clearwater on Icot Blvd. and is called Clearwater Ice Arena.

Located on the west side of I-75 just north of SR 60 in Brandon. They don't have public skating every day, so check their calendar. Skating is $10 and skate rental is $5 per person. It is the official practice facility of the Tampa Bay Lightning.