For the first time since 2019, the Driftless Region’s roller derby team will be back on the track.
The season opener for the Mississippi Valley Mayhem gets underway Saturday at the Onalaska OmniCenter. Doors open at 5 p.m., action starts at 6 p.m. and this weekend’s halftime performance will be provided by Task Karate.
Founded in August 2008, MVM is a nonprofit, all-female, flat-track roller derby league. The comradery, friendship and athleticism has certainly been missed by members of the league and fans alike.
Queenie always wanted to be a derby girl and officially joined in 2018. Queenie told Ken Cooper on Classic Hits 94.7 that, as a mom, it’s a great release.
“The kids love to come and watch us, too,” she said. “I feel like it’s a really great example for them.”
MamaJama added, “the kids see you get knocked down and then they see you get right back up. And if not, nurtured right back up.”
Queenie and MamaJama are both nurses but the league consists of people from all walks of life.
There are members who are professors, other medical professionals, teachers, stay at home moms, even a pastor at one point. It’s a very inclusive group, so members say that it’s rewarding to be a part of the team.
MVM is involved in our community, too. Just this week, league members spent an evening volunteering to help the Parks Department clean up a few local parks.
Tickets are $7 for veterans, $13 in advance, $15 at the door, kids 10 and under are $7 with a portion of sales to benefit The Parenting Place. Advance tickets available through the MVM Facebook page or the “contact us” page on its website.
Community members interested in joining, volunteering are encouraged to reach out, too!
By Tracy Ballzer, WIZM News. TOP PHOTO: Mississippi Valley Mayhem’s 2023 team (PHOTO: Dan Schraith)