The Bradentucky Bombers (black jerseys) square off against Fort Myers Roller Derby. Provided photo.

The Bradentucky Bombers, perhaps the area’s fiercest sports team, return to the rink this Saturday to square off against in-state rival New Jax City Rollers at the Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex. Both the Bombers and the Rollers are members of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association—the preeminent governing body of roller derby in the United States—and compete in the North American South division.

As of March 2026, the Rollers are ranked sixth in the division, seven spots ahead of the 13th-ranked Bombers. Those rankings, however, are subject to change on the outcome of Saturday’s matchup as there is a significant disparity between the two clubs in games played this season. The Bombers, at 6-2, have competed in six matches, while the Rollers, at 2-1, have only played three games.

“The algorithm is pretty complicated, but to make our regional playoffs, we would need to be in that 12th spot,” says 18th year player Sarah Poulos. “We are hoping that playing some of these teams in the top 10 will help move the needle."

Played on quad skates on an oval track, roller derby is not a sport for the faint of heart. There is no ball, net or goal, only two teams of five skaters apiece vying to physically force their way past their competitors. Games are played over the course of two 30 minute halves—during each two minute scoring periods known as “jams”, four “blockers” from each team position themselves in a formation akin to an elongated rugby scrum, with one “jammer” from each team lined up next to each other behind the blockade. The goal of each “jammer” is to first break past the blockade, gaining “control” of the jam and then to score points by lapping as many blockers as possible. Like in most sports, the team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

“Most of us are working out at least three times a week outside of practice,” says Poulos. “It’s a real sport and we consider ourselves true athletes. We put in a lot of time and dedication to this.”

Bradentucky Bombers vs New Jax City Rollers, March 28, 4:30pm, Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex, 5309 29th St E, Ellenton.

The Bradentucky Bombers (black jerseys) square off against Fort Myers Roller Derby. Provided photo.

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