QUEANBEYAN High School has become the unexpected saviour for Canberra-based roller derby organisation the Varsity Derby League.
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The VDL has spent months looking for the right venue after less than ideal training arrangements. Training sessions were previously held across four different venues within Canberra including the Southern Cross Club and AIS.
However, now 95 percent of training will be held at the Queanbeyan High School multipurpose hall and the rest at the Southern Cross Club in Tuggeranong.
VDL president Jessica Robinson said it was a relief to finally find a new home as the club has very specific requirements for a training venue. Further adding to the pressure was news one of their current training grounds - the Souther Cross Club in Woden is set to be demolished later this year.
"We needed a space that was at least the size of a single basketball court and has a floor capable for training," she said.
"We looked at a lot of warehouse and industrial spaces but many of them had cement columns which are a safety hazard."
The arrangement with Queanbeyan High School will begin as a 12-month trial. Ms Robinson said the proximity of the school is a blessing for the club with the majority of members based in Canberra and others from Queanbeyan, Bungendore and Wamboin.
"We rang every high school and community centre within an hour's drive of Canberra until we found Queanbeyan High School," Ms Robinson said.
"They've been very open and helpful. We couldn't have asked for a nicer bunch of people to work with."
The VDL currently field two women's, one men's and a co-ed team and training five days a week to cater for players of varying skill. The League will hold a "come and try" session to encourage others to take up the sport. Participants must be 18-years-old and over but there is no upper age limit with one league member well into their 50s.
"It's just a chance to get skates on and see if you like it or not," Ms Robinson said.
"It's a free trial, no strings attached and we'll have some loaner gear there. We'll even have people there to hold onto your hand if needed."
The Varsity Derby League's next 'come and try' session will be held at Queanbeyan High School on Saturday, February 28 from 2 - 4pm. Please email vdltraining@gmail.com to express your interest and ensure there is enough loaner gear to go around. Participants will need their own mouth guard.