A group of volunteers in DeLand raises money for charities while knocking over their opponents on the skating rink floor.
Meet the Thunder City Sirens, Volusia’s nonprofit roller derby team, made up of nurses, police officers, retired military veterans, teachers, and other professionals who give their time to help others, said Skater League Representative Romie Valdes.
“We are a group of people who wanted to do something differently, and we have fun doing it on roller skates,” Valdes said, adding that the team ranges in age from 19 to 60.
The Thunder City Sirens started 16 years ago and have been playing competitively against other roller derby teams. They raise money to help other nonprofits in west Volusia that help women and children, but also support all nonprofits. They have collected toys and gifts for the Baby DJ Christmas Program for 106.7 FM in Orlando and raised funds for the New Hope Animal Clinic, Valdes said. They also sponsor programs like the Robotics Club at the DeLand High School, among others.
“This year we are working with DeLand Pride,” Valdes said.
So far this year the group has raised about $5,000 through game ticket sales, and a 50/50 raffle, which has been used to support nonprofit organizations, Valdes said.
On Aug. 25, the team will be recruiting skaters and all levels are welcome, Valdes said.
“We teach you how to skate and we provide all the equipment,” Valdes said.
The Thunder City Sirens also accept donations. For information, contact the organization at info@derbysirens.com
― Patricio G. Balona is a crime and public safety reporter covering Volusia County and occasionally Flagler County. His coverage areas include Daytona Beach, DeLand, Ormond Beach and beyond.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: DeLand roller derby team skates to support charities
Reporting by Patricio G. Balona, Daytona Beach News-Journal / The Daytona Beach News-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Patricio G. Balona, Daytona Beach News-Journal | USA TODAY Network
