Shut out from conventional funding, the Roller Girls created an innovative approach to overcome the obstacle. In addition to internal and individual fundraising efforts, the league raised building funds on indiegogo.com, a fundraising website used by several independent bands, creative people and sports teams.
However, the fundraising efforts are ongoing. The newly acquired building requires many modifications before it can be occupied.
In an effort to help raise funds for the renovations, a raffle and silent auction will be held during their next home bout, which is scheduled for April 14. At 7 p.m. that Saturday, the Roller Girls' team Pulp Friction will take on the West Coast Derby Knockouts from Ventura.
The two teams last met up on March 12, 2011, when Pulp beat the Knockouts, 133-68.
"By day we are mild-mannered, but when we are playing a bout, we are competitive," said Pulp Friction team member Yvonne Matsunaga (a.k.a. "Skatie Gaga"). "We want to win and we stop at nothing. This time we have the home-court advantage and we have amazing fans. I think that will help us with the psychological aspect of it."
