June 27-29, 2014 – The Iron Range Maidens traveled to Lebanon, Missouri to participate in the second annual Midwest Derby Fest Tournament. This is a double elimination tournament, two losses and you’re out. “This tournament is to show the progression of leagues in tournament play” according to the event’s Facebook page “The format is tough and teams have to show great capacity for endurance, training, coaching, team work and strategy. This by no means is an easy feat.” The bracket was composed of 16 women’s teams. There was a bracket for 8 men’s teams as well. The men and women did not compete against each other.
After 13 hours of driving over two days the Maidens faced their first Opponents on Friday night. The Maidens were unable to defeat Plan B with a final score of 113 to 215.
Copyright 2014 Randy Pace
Saturday proved to be a better day, pulling out a double win. Mid America Rebels were only able to score 45 points against the Maidens 299. Dark River brought more to the track with a final score of 126 to 104. Sunday brought the possibility of multiple games as long as a win was had. The Maidens proved themselves again against the M.U.L.L.E.T.s 120 to 107.
The bouts were only two hours apart with each opponent getting stronger. It was a nail biting game against the Derby Diamonds, with the leading score changing hands almost every other jam. The Maidens fought hard, but the final score did not end in their favor at 96 to 102. This put the Iron Range Maidens in an unofficial 5th place.
This was the Maidens first experience at a double elimination tournament. There was plenty of roller derby to watch and much to learn. They were able to cheer on fellow Minnesota team the men’s Terrordactyles. In turn the Terrordactyls cheered for the Maidens and helped bench coach at every bout.
Peanut Slugger-n-Jam had family in the area to also cheer on the Maidens. The “Peanut Gallery” with the Terrordactyles proved to be the loudest cheering section of the tournament. The Maidens greatly appreciated the support.
You can find some pictures of the event on the Iron Range Maidens Facebook page and also #irm2mdf. To see the Maidens locally, they will be in Coleraine August 9th.
Copyright 2014 Randy Pace
Copyright 2014 Randy Pace
