TAPintoTravels - As our readers know, TAPinto is not shy about traveling to places other travel magazines would not dare to go. From shark expeditions to the dreaded political conventions, we have stared danger in its face.

So, when we we had the chance to meet some roller derby gals in Akron, we thought no problem.

In our past coverage of roller derby (It has been more than once), we found the events very fun and in nice settings. Then, we went to Akron.

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We love the industrial grit of the Midwestern cities. It was there that the economic giant of the United States flourished. The wealth it generated has created some of the nicest resorts and vacation destinations in the country. It also created a number of derelict warehouses and factories.

So, when we stepped into the freight elevator and onto the Akron Roller Derby (AKRD) practice floor, we did have second thoughts. It was an old Goodrich plant and it looked a little rough. Like Ukraine during a civil war rough.

Then met the cheerful bone-crushers and we felt right at home.

If you are curious about them, we asked all the pertinent questions:

How can potential teammates join?





Girls interested in playing with AKRD that are over 18 can email recruiting@akronrollerderby.net for more information.

What benefits do you and your teammates get from the sport?

Skaters gain friendships, strength, confidence, better health, among other things. Skaters learn to work and communicate together. There is so much strategy involved in derby, and it's not just "skating around in a circle". Derby is a very challenging and fun sport at the same time.

AKRD is a non-profit organization that is very involved in charity work as well.

How is the comradery?

All skaters are here to support each other on and off the track. We all want each other to do well no matter what level skater they are.

What is the schedule for the year?

Our next home bouts (all doubleheaders starting at 6pm) are:

March 10 at the John S. Knight Center in Akron

June 16 at the Summit County Fairgrounds, Ohio

July 14 at the Summit County Fairgrounds, Ohio

August 18 at the Summit County Fairgrounds, Ohio

We update our Facebook often with how to buy tickets.

How do you enjoy traveling for the games?

AKRD will be traveling for the Skate to Thrill tournament in Missouri and an away bout in Illinois in May. These will be the first games AKRD will be traveling out of state to.

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