It’s almost roller derby opening day in Cincinnati! The Cincinnati Rollergirls open our ninth season at the Cincinnati Gardens on Saturday, March 14 with a double-header against NEO Roller Derby of Akron, and there are a few new things we want our Flock to know about.
1. The Black Sheep are playing the first game of the night, starting at 6 p.m., instead of the second. In seasons past, the Violent Lambs – CRG’s junior varsity or B team – have played the opening game of the night. But we’re following the lead of many other roller derby teams and giving our fans the chance to see the main event first. We know many people have to leave our double-headers early because they have young children or other obligations, so we hope this will allow more fans to see the entire Black Sheep game – and get their autographs by the merch booths immediately afterward. But you won’t want to miss the Violent Lambs games, either – that’s when you’ll get to see the CRG stars of tomorrow today!
2. Skaters on both the Black Sheep and the Violent Lambs will be wearing new black jerseys this season. Traditionally, the Violent Lambs wore white and the Black Sheep wore black. But in a show of team unity, we’re all wearing black this year – plus matching silver S1 helmets. Join us by wearing black to our home opener on March 14 and help us black out the Gardens!
3. We’re offering new ticket packages for birthday parties and scouting groups. Celebrate your child’s birthday at the game or bring your scouting group and get perks including a personal visit from a skater or our mascot, your child’s name on the video board and announced by the house announcer, a signed team poster, temporary tattoos and more. Click here for details.
Tips for New Fans
1. Save by buying tickets in advance. Ticket prices go up at the door, so buying in advance is the most affordable way to see a game. It’s an even better deal if you buy season tickets or bring a group of 10 or more! See all of our ticketing options here.
2. Read up on the rules. Check out the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association’s “Roller Derby 101” before you come to the game.

3. Arrive early. Doors open at 5 p.m., but many fans start tailgating at around 4. Arriving early will ensure you get a good (free!) parking spot and a great seat (seating is general admission except for reserved areas for season ticket holders). Plus, we have a $1 beer happy hour from 5-6 p.m., and you can also catch an exhibition scrimmage by the Cincinnati Junior Rollergirls beginning at about 5:15 p.m. NOTE: There is no re-entry into the Gardens this season, with the exception of a sectioned-off area for smokers.
4. Bring cash. The Gardens box office and our merch booths accept credit cards, but you’ll need cash for the concession stands. There’s an ATM in the lobby of the Gardens if you need it.
5. Join us for the after-party. For the second year, our after-parties will be held at MadTree Brewing, the official beer of the Cincinnati Rollergirls, after the second game ends at approximately 9:15 p.m. We hope to see you there!