Our goal for 2017 is to compete in the International WFTDA Division II Championships! Because Roller Derby is such a unique and dynamic sport, teams around the world must travel a great deal to find adequate competition. This year 3 of the * THE BEST * tournaments in the United States have invited us to play. The SufferJets know that unless we compete at this high level, any chance for making it to Championships are over before the season even begins.
Our skaters train on skates in this full-contact sport minimally 8 hours each week and 11 months out of the year. ILWR skaters also cross-train year-round in order to maintain tip-top shape to be able to compete at the highest level of this sport. It is not "just a hobby" - it's a year round financial and time commitment to all involved. While competing as amateur athletes, we also run a non-profit that constantly gives back to the community.
For over 10 years Ithaca League of Women Rollers have provided a space for women across Ithaca and the surrounding area to find social and emotional support among other women while competing together in a physically and mentally challenging sport. Modern roller derby is unique in that it is a fast-action contact sport led by women as opposed to so many other sports that present as a "women's alternative" to a male-dominated sport.The pro-women attitude is galvanized by the ILWR's focus on issues of women’s empowerment, body positivism, and inclusivity. The result is a safe community where women support each other in their successes, encourage each other through their defeats, and receive the same in return - whether on or off the track.
League-members have a vote and a voice in the
management and direction of the organization to ensure that the league
is reflective of the women who participate. It is common for women
who have retired from the training and competition aspect of the
organization to continue to volunteer with the organization because of
the strong bonds that they have formed and because they continue to
believe in the importance of the mission of ILWR.
Like the adult program, the Junior Derby program focuses on
developing teamwork, relationship building, self-confidence,
empowerment, athletic skills, and sportsmanship. Roller derby can be an
alternative for children and teens who do not feel comfortable with, or
inspired by, mainstream sports programs. In our juniors program, young
women participate in after-school
training programs and compete in full production games
in front of family, friends, and fans.
ILWR is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which endeavors to provide athletic opportunities for women and youth, and to promote the well-being of our region through charitable donations, volunteering, and community outreach for numerous community-oriented non-profits and women-centered organizations. ILWR is a member of WFTDA (Women's Flat Track Derby Association) and currently ranked 87 out of 320 teams in the world.
So please, help us keep the dream alive in 2017 and supply a tax deductible donation to help us succeed!
With the increasing cost of rent in our practice facility, fees for renting our bouting facility, and the cost of travel which is necessary for this sport, we are looking for help from the community. Donations will help with preparations for our TENTH home season, travel expenses, and other outlying costs.
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