Photo credit to Elizabeth Raible Photography Pictured are the Warrin Wrecking Dolls during a match.

For many, roller derby conjures images of fast-paced action, fierce athleticism, and skaters weaving and crashing around a flat track at breakneck speed.

That’s exactly what fans can expect when they attend a bout hosted by Warren County’s own roller derby league — the Warrin’ Wrecking Dolls. But beyond the thrilling jams and powerful hits lies a tight-knit, inclusive community that’s been rolling strong for a decade.

Modern roller derby is a full-contact sport played on quad roller skates. Two teams face off on an oval track, each fielding a jammer (who scores points) and blockers (who play both offense and defense). The jammer scores by lapping members of the opposing team, while blockers work to stop the opposing jammer and help their own jammer break through the pack. It’s a physically demanding sport that requires agility, strength, strategy, and teamwork.

The Warrin’ Wrecking Dolls, affectionately known as the Dolls, were founded in 2015 and are celebrating their 10th anniversary this year. Over the past decade, the league has grown into a community of over 25 skaters, supported by a full crew of referees, coaches, non-skating officials, announcers, mascots, and dedicated volunteers.

The league is made up of two home teams — the Glitter Bombs and the Roll Models — who compete throughout the season for the Wrecking Cup trophy. This year’s home opener at Northwest Arena in Jamestown proved why roller derby is one of the most exciting spectator sports around. In an intense, back-and-forth match described as the closest bout in team history, the Roll Models narrowly defeated the Glitter Bombs 190-175 in the final jam.

Team captain Tabulous led the Roll Models to victory, showcasing her skill both as a jammer — slipping through blockers to score points — and as a hard-hitting blocker herself. She was joined by standout jammers Naughty By Nature and Poison Envy, who delivered multiple high-scoring passes. The defense, anchored by NaSquashya, delivered punishing hits that consistently disrupted the Glitter Bombs’ offensive efforts.

The Glitter Bombs, led by captain Brittany Smears and jammer Sheza Wildcat, were equally fierce. Both played dual roles as blockers and jammers, combining speed, power, and strategy to keep their team in contention until the very last seconds.

But the Warrin’ Wrecking Dolls are more than just athletes; they’re a family. Many skaters’ partners and family members have become coaches, referees, and volunteers. “Anyone can be a Doll,” says the website. “You just need a passion for learning something new.”

Non-skating roles are essential to keeping the league running — from selling tickets and merchandise to managing security, officiating, and announcing. The Dolls practice twice a week at the Russell Roller Rink in Warren — Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 to 10 a.m. New skaters are encouraged to arrive early, gear up, and prepare for both rigorous training and the camaraderie that defines the league.

The season officially runs from January through late summer, with competitive bouts beginning in April. The team typically hosts four to five bouts each year, both home and away.

One of roller derby’s most beloved traditions is the creation of unique derby names — often playful, pun-filled, or personally meaningful. Skaters select their own names, sometimes with input from friends or teammates, and check them against national derby name registries to avoid duplication.

For example, Southern Sass nods to her Southern roots and bold attitude, while Shear Pain, a professional hairdresser, crafted her name as a clever pun on her career. Thorpedo combines her surname and a nod to her husband’s Marine Corps service, and Tabulous puts a fun spin on her first name.

The Dolls’ 10th anniversary is being celebrated throughout the season with special events and community engagement. “This milestone means so much to us,” said a league member. “Over the years, we’ve grown into a true family and built something lasting here in Warren. Roller derby has brought people together from all walks of life, and it’s still growing strong.”

Fans can catch the next high-energy matchup — the second game in the Battle for the Wrecking Cup — on June 28, 2025, at Northwest Arena in Jamestown. Doors open at 5:15 p.m., and the first whistle blows at 6 p.m. Tickets are available through the team’s website (warrinwreckingdolls.weebly.com), from skaters, or at local outlets like Russell Roller Rink, Busti Country Convenience, and Yeti Vape.