News Summary
RollerCon returns to Las Vegas for its 20th year, attracting roller derby enthusiasts from around the globe. Scheduled for July 9-13, it offers seminars, workshops, and inclusive activities for all skill levels, reflecting the growing appeal of roller skating culture. With various ticket options and an expanded venue, this year’s event promises to strengthen the sense of community among skaters while promoting inclusivity and personal development.
Las Vegas is gearing up for a major celebration as RollerCon returns for its 20th year as the premier gathering for roller derby enthusiasts and skaters from around the globe. Scheduled to take place from July 9 to 13, 2023, at the World Market Center, this year’s event is anticipated to attract thousands of participants, continuing its legacy as the largest roller skating event in the United States.
RollerCon, co-founded by former skate shop owners Denise Grimes and Trish the Dish in 2005, has evolved from a modest gathering into a five-day marathon filled with various activities, including seminars, workshops, roller derby scrimmages, and skate park tours. The first event was a casual affair with simple pool parties and a scrimmage held under the scorching Las Vegas sun. By 2006, participants found themselves skating on an impromptu track at Fremont Street Experience, often amidst a crowd, showcasing the event’s unique and lively spirit.
The rise of RollerCon has been a reflection of the growing global appeal of roller skating culture. Participants come from Europe, Australia, and numerous U.S. states, united in their love for skating. Attendees include skaters of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned professionals, making the event accessible to everyone, regardless of their familiarity with roller derby. This inclusivity extends to the atmosphere of RollerCon, where attendees are encouraged to develop their skills without the pressures typically associated with more competitive environments. A special skate park is available for practice, fostering a supportive community for both learning and connection.
The incorporation of various roller skating styles, including dance and stunt skating, reflects the event’s growth beyond just roller derby. RollerCon provides myriad opportunities for participants to enhance their skating techniques and strategies through specialized classes covering topics such as fitness and injury prevention. With injuries common in contact sports like roller derby, the availability of training focused on preventing such incidents has become a significant aspect of the event.
The event is designed for a broad audience, and tickets for RollerCon are priced to accommodate different attendance preferences. Current prices include off-skates passes for non-skaters ($272), skater passes ($355.50), and MVP passes that offer training opportunities ($428.63). RollerCon’s relocation to the World Market Center this year has allowed for multiple skating tracks and an extensive vendor area, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Participants like Rose “Conquer Nut” Holdaway from Australia exemplify the international draw of RollerCon, traveling great distances to join in the festivities and competition. The sense of community among roller skaters is further bolstered by the skate park tours managed by Jason Cloetens, ensuring that even those who are less experienced feel welcomed and can comfortably engage with the roller skating community.
As roller derby began in the 1930s, it has evolved into a sport predominantly associated with women, providing numerous opportunities for female skaters of varying ages and body types to engage in full-contact competition. This empowerment factor plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and community involvement, reflecting the essence of what RollerCon and roller derby represent today.
Looking ahead, RollerCon will return to Las Vegas in 2024, solidifying its status as a cornerstone of the roller skating and roller derby community. The event continually emphasizes collaboration, community, and personal improvement, making it a highly anticipated annual gathering within the roller skating world.
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Additional Resources
- RollerCon Official Event Page
- Las Vegas Review Journal: Roller Derby Convention
- ESPNW: Rachel Bockheim’s Roller Derby Journey
- Wikipedia: Roller Derby
- Google Search: Roller Skating News
Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER
LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
