It was a valiant effort against a talented, veteran squad, but in the end the Dam City Rollers from Castlegar fell 180-106 to the Babes of Brutality from Salmo in league semi-final action in Rossland on Friday. The loss ended the Rollers season and propelled the Babes into the West Kootenay Women's Roller Derby League (WKWRDL) final against Rossland's Gnarlie's Angels on Sept. 11.
"It was a really good game. I think the crowd really enjoyed it," said Kitty Karnage, captain of the Rollers. "The first period was really close. There were a couple of times when the difference was only about eight points."
The Castlegar squad was missing players due to injuries and other commitments. The players that were on hand, though, certainly gave it their all.
"We played short-handed. We also played with some new player so that made a difference," said Karnage. "We played really well and we felt really good about it. The main thing is we had a really good time. It was a really positive game to go out on."
Being a first year team in the WKWRDL, the Rollers were pleased with their success, finishing third overall in their inaugural season.
"We feel like we've come a long ways. The first time we played them we lost by 200 or more points," said Karnage. "We've come a long ways and it's only going to keep on getting better."
The Rollers plan on taking a couple of well deserved months off before getting together again to practice. The team hopes to add some new "blood" to their roster for next season.
While the Rollers get to rest, the Babes move on to the final against Rossland on Sept. 11 at the Rossland Arena. Before the final, fans will get a chance to see the two newest teams in the league, the Bloodshed Betties from Trail and the Valley Vendettas from Slocan, in action. Doors open at 4 p.m. First whistle blows at 5 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.