Houston Roller Derby opens for 2017 season

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Grab your skates! The Houston Roller Derby is back for 2017, and it's about to get rowdy.

The Houston Roller Derby girls are scheduled to perform at the opening ceremony for the city's first outdoor roller rink at Discovery Green. The Rink: Rolling at Discovery Green opens on March 3 from 6 - 10 pm with a celebration featuring a Roller Derby Girls skating demo and performances by The Allen Oldies Band.

The Houston Roller Derby 2017 season is getting off to a busy start. Last weeekend thousands of spectators filled the Revention Music Center for the derby's season opener and the action did not disappoint.

"I know it's a full-contact sport, so I'm excited to see it for the first time in person," said Keith Shapiro from the stands.

The league's 120 derby skaters come from a variety of backgrounds, from geologists to elementary school teachers.

"It's basically my therapy, it's my form of exercise, it's my social life," said Maul McCartney, who competes with the Bayou City Bosses.

The derby has its roots in the 1930s. After a hiatus, it returned to Houston in 2006. Four home teams -- The Bayou City Bosses, The Brawlers, The Valkyries and The Psych Ward Sirens -- and two travel teams -- the Houston All-Stars and the Knockouts -- comprise the Bayou City league.

Bouts are held on the third Saturday of each month during the season, which runs through September at Revention Music Center, formerly known as the Bayou Music Center. Click here for more information.