Los Alamos Community Foundation Executive Director Steve Laurent and Paul and Jill Cook, founders and major supporters of the Community Youth Sports Endowment present a grant to the Los Alamos Junior Roller Derby Team during a practice Sept. 25 at the Los Alamos County Ice Rink. Courtesy/YMCA
Los Alamos Junior Roller Derby Team. Courtesy/YMCA
YMCA News:
The Los Alamos Junior Roller Derby Team is celebrating a big win off the track. They were recently awarded a substantial grant from the Youth Sports Endowment through the Los Alamos Community Foundation, and it’s making a world of difference for these young athletes.
The grant, presented during a practice Sept. 25 at the Los Alamos County Ice Rink, is a much-needed boost and a big helping hand for these talented skaters. This support will allow the team to travel and compete in regional Junior Roller Derby Association events, which will assist youth in growing and developing their teamwork and leadership skills. The grant was presented by Los Alamos Community Foundation Executive Director Steve Laurent and Paul and Jill Cook, founders and major supporters of the Community Youth Sports Endowment.
The roller derby team, known as the “Cherry Bombs” and their non-competitive counterparts, the “Cherry Blasts” are grateful for the grant. This support is a tremendous boost for the athletes and their families as they strive to excel in their roller derby pursuits. It showcases the remarkable synergy between the community and its young talent.
“Playing roller derby is the highlight of my life. It motivates me to get out of bed and be active and make new friends with the other players.” –Sour Patch
Cherry Bombs are currently gearing up for the competitive season ahead where they will travel to bouts taking place in Utah, Colorado, California, Arizona, Wyoming and Texas to compete against other roller derby teams. The Foundation’s contribution is easing the financial load on the athletes’ families, allowing them to focus on their performance and growth.
The roller derby program has come a long way since 2013 when it served only 20 players. Thanks in part to funding support from the Youth Sports Endowment at LACF, it serves 72 youth and young adults, with two travel teams in action. The program is growing, and so is the excitement in Los Alamos for these talented roller derby stars.
These young athletes aren’t just playing a sport; they’re building a close-knit community where everyone is welcome, no matter who they are. Roller derby is more than a game; it’s a place where friendships flourish and voices are heard. And for the kids of Los Alamos, it’s a chance to shine both on and off the track. Nearly 400 youths have benefited from this program, and it’s clear that roller derby is making a positive impact in the community. One skater shared, “without Roller Derby, I wouldn’t have a sport to participate in.”
Members of the community can support grants for competitive youth sports by giving to the Community Youth Sports Endowment at the Los Alamos Community Foundation.