We’re just about recovered from the North American Qualifiers here at MRDA HQ, but there’s little time to relax just yet as we hurtle toward the European leg of the competition.
Hosted by Manchester Roller Derby, the European Qualifiers will take place between 18th and 19th August at the centrally located North Bridge Leisure Centre, Halifax and will determine who places in October’s championship playoff finals in Portland, OR.
The teams competing are, in no particular order, Manneken Beasts, Barrow Infernos, Tyne and Fear, Nottingham Roller Derby and Lincolnshire Rolling Thunder; we’ve taken the opportunity to catch up with each of them and pose those all important questions that you’ve all been dying to ask.
In this instalment we are chatting to Manneken Beasts, blocker number 30, The Spaniard and Jammer, Trick or Threat who skates under number 88.
What does it mean to be a part of MEQ?
TS: This is a dream, I never thought that I would be playing such a high level tournament.
TT: It’s a big opportunity to prove that, even if we are a small team, we have what it takes to compete at this level.
What will you be working on during the tournament?
TS: I am pretty new in the team, so my main goal is to try to fit in to the walls and be useful for the team.
TT: Surprise.
Who are you personally looking forward to facing on track?
TS: All the teams are awesome, but I cannot wait to play Tyne and Fear!
TT: Lincolnshire.
Who is the one to watch on your team?
TS: Trick Or Threat.
TT: Murduck.
What has been your MRDA highlight of 2018?
TS: MRDWC was an incredible event, we all enjoyed it so much. Very happy to see many new teams in different countries.
TT: The team winning a Swedish tournament with less than ten players.
Bread: Settle an argument; is it roll, cob, bap…?
TS: Cob bread.
TT: *brain freeze*
Finally, the question everyone’s asking, could you explain to our readers why Roller Polar Bear hasn’t made your roster for this tournament?
TS: He had a bad year, his hometown was melted due to the global warming and now he lives on the streets….
TT: Everything is in the name :-p