(36) OHIO TAKES AIM AT KILLAMAZOO
This weekend, Ohio Roller Derby will play their final home bout of 2016 as the Killamazoo Derby Darlins try to play spoiler in Columbus. Historically, Ohio has the advantage over the squad from Michigan, winning all four matchups between the two teams. They most recently played in March 2015 when Ohio was victorious 282-118.
After strong performances against Carolina and Roc City in their last two home bouts, Ohio Roller Derby has secured a spot in the Division 1 Playoffs come September, in which the top 40 teams in the world will compete for the coveted Hydra Trophy. Where they’ll be seeded in the Division 1 Playoffs is yet to be determined. Currently ranked #36, Ohio would be the final 9 seed and would have to play the #28 team in the first round of the playoffs. A good showing against Killamazoo and Ohio could jump to an 8 seed where they would be favored in their opening round match against a lower ranked 9 seed. Regardless of their seed, if Ohio wins their opener at playoffs, they’ll move on to play the #1 seed (one of the top 4 teams in the world) later that day. Following their home bout against Killamazoo, Ohio still has some work cut out for themselves as they hit the road before playoffs with bouts against Detroit, Columbia (SC), and Atlanta.
The Killamazoo Derby Darlins currently sit at 7-8 this season as they venture toward Columbus. They started their season off well, posting five consecutive sanctioned victories against Ft. Wayne (twice), DuPage, Old Capitol City, and Burning River. Unfortunately, their season has flipped as the Kill Stars have lost their last five contests this year to North Star, Toronto, Queen City, San Fernando, and Carolina… all teams that Ohio has had success against over the past couple of seasons (except for San Fernando, whom Ohio has never played).
Following the Ohio/Killamazoo Kill Stars bout will be Gang Green versus the Killamazoo Killa Crew. Gang Green is currently 5-1 this season as they have won their last three contests. Doors open at this Saturday at 4:00 p.m. with Ohio/Kill Stars staring at 5:00 p.m. Gang Green will follow at approximately 7:00 p.m.
Photos by: Joe Mac