Star City Rollergirls Open Roller Derby Season

Jammers for both teams (Roanoke right) hustle around the track.

Legware is important (especially when torn).

More legware. Nice.

Roanoke player does double duty with national anthem.

Matches are played with seven officials. Pro football has five.

Here's the action at its best.

Linking for defense.

More than 200 fans line the end zone and around the rink.

Roanoke jammer scores.

Circular action at the Star City Skate Center.

Went to my first roller derby tonight, Roanoke's Star City Rollergirls vs. Charlottesville's Derby Dames at the Star City Skate Center on Hershberger Road and it was a hoot. Got a bunch of photos, but I have no idea who's who because the program has only their stage names. "We don't want anybody stalking us," one of the Roanoke skaters said.

The Roller Girls have home games scheduled April 15, May 20, July 9, August 12 and Setp. 16. Games begin at 5 p.m. and cost $6 in advance and $8 at the door. The team's website is www.starcityrollergirls.com.