For the last four years, I’ve been privileged to know some of the most interesting, assertive, intelligent, bad-ass women (and men) I’ve ever met as part of Memphis Roller Derby (MRD). But now they’re in a bit of a bind.
For the last season, the league has been practicing and bouting at the Youth Building on the Mid-South Fairgrounds. But with the city’s effort to clean up the property for redevelopment, the Youth Building will be demolished.
As of this week, MRD’s contract to lease the building has expired, and the new season is set to start in February.
The league plans to bout temporarily, at least back at the Funquest in Collierville. But the league is also interested in finding a more permanent and centrally located home.
MRD is looking for a space that’s about 12,000 to 15,000 square feet with a large, open expanse without poles (Poles, while good for support, are not great for roller girls or their hardworking referees). The venue should also have ample parking and restroom facilities.
If you know of such a place or better yet, own or lease one the league asks that you email contact@memphisrollerderby.com.
