Fresh Meat roller derby training session starts Sept. 17

The Peterborough Area Roller Derby group's fall Fresh Meat session begins Sept, 17. The session teaches the basics of roller skating and derby play. Skaters interested in refereeing, rather than being rostered as a player are encouraged to come out to learn as well. The league welcomes skaters regardless of gender orientation, and in 2017 also invites skaters 16 and 17, with parental permission. A Meat-n-Greet information nights will be held Sept. 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Village on Argyle at 780 Argyle St in Peterborough. There will be a Rumbling Rage Derby Shop out selling everything needed to hit the track safely and in style. There will be PARD vets on hand to answer any of your questions, as well as the opportunity to watch a league practice in progress. Internetlinked computers will be available to facilitate purchasing insurance, registering and paying for the course. The Fresh Meat course runs Sunday nights at the Village on Argyle starting Sept. 17 for 12 weeks with a few additional whole league practices run on Tuesdays at the Village. Skaters passing minimum skills testing at the end of the course will be eligible to skate in the Fresh and Furious, a fresh meat only tournament in July 2018 in Toronto, as well as training towards rostering with a league team for play in the 2018 season. Currently the group has one all-female team competing but are working towards developing co-ed and men's league play as well. Players who are ready can register www.facebook.com/ events/107812506581307/ Peterborough Area Roller Derby was formed on March 31, 2015 when the Area 705 and Peterborough Roller Derby Leagues joined forces to promote flat track roller derby in the Peterborough area Home bouts happen at the Douro Arena and Community Centre, while teams also travel across Ontario to compete. For more information about bout schedules, volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.pard-rollerderby.com.