PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A roller-derby league is changing what it means to be part of the classic sport on the rink.

  • "Open-gender" roller derby league launches in Pasco County
  • Co-ed skate league encourages people to be themselves
  • Member says adding men to mix changes dynamic for the better

When Rose Frizzle started Revolution Roller Derby, she wanted it to be open to all.

“It takes all kinds, all kinds to do this,” Frizzle said.

To her, she wanted more than just a women’s team. She started another team in the league, not just to be co-ed, but what she calls open-gender.

“I think it’s important for those who want to come out and be themselves, that’s what we want to attract,” Frizzle said.

Frizzle says the league is the only one in Pasco, Pinellas, and Hernando counties to be open-gender. She says other leagues around the area and country are starting to follow suit.

Roller derby is a contact sport that involves two teams of players roller-skating around a track.

Adding guys to the mix does change the game a bit, some said.

“It does bring out a different aggression,” league member Erika McKinnon said. “We do feel like... we get a higher standard to compete with them. It’s a great game when we play with them.”

The league meets weekly at SpinNations skating center in Port Richey on Mondays. They say there’s always a spot open.

The league held an event Sunday, with proceeds going to the Tampa Bay Cat Alliance.

For more information, visit https://revolutionrollerderby.com/