580 RollerGirls ready to regroup, recruit

It’s been a while but the 580 RollerGirls are dusting off the skates and getting wheels back on the track.

Lawton’s hometown roller derby squad, founded in 2010, were climbing up the ranks of the Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association when the COVID-19 pandemic knocked wind out of the sails. After a couple of attempts to get things going again, they’re making the pitch with long-time members Marie Pihulic, A.K.A. Molly Meet Your Maker, and Brittany Katvala A.K.A. Hell’An Agony, coaching.

They’re beginning with open skate lessons for all ages from noon to 1 p.m. Sunday, at Laugh Out Loud, 6720 Quanah Parker Trailway. All you have to do is rent some skates and get help from the 580 RollerGirls on how to get moving, Pihulic said.

“This is a chance to grow the love of roller skating in general. That’s all we did as kids, and you don’t have to stop skating as an adult. It’s just as fun now as it was then,” she said.

Another skate lesson session is scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. March 16 at the venue.

Open recruitment for new skaters will be at 11 a.m. Feb. 9 at Laugh Out Loud, as well, according to Katvala.

“This is your chance to get started in the sport of roller derby,” she said.

Skating experience is not a requirement. The coaches will teach skaters the techniques to be an effective roller derby player. Skaters must be at least 18 years old.

No gear is necessary for open recruitment. Coaches will go over what you need and give an overview of practices and training, Pihulic said.

“It’s about time,” she said. “We have missed playing in the 5-8-0 and we’ll be scheduling a home game in the near future.”

In the meantime, skaters are sharpening their skills at Laugh Out Loud and getting stronger at Southwest Barbell, Katvala said.

“We are growing our team here, and we’re asking anyone who has ever wanted to try roller derby to come to open recruitment,” she said. “The worst thing that will happen is you’ll have a great time.”