Trio of young local roller derby athletes headed to world stage

“It’s awesome,” said K’Senya recently. “It’s like a new opportunity that I get to do something I love for Canada, so I think it’s really fun.”

Not only is it an opportunity to represent Canada, but it’s also a chance to represent the Gas City Roller Derby Association.

“It makes you feel really happy,” said Ami Traore. “I get to represent our whole team and how we have gone this far.”

For Mahawa, it’s a chance at redemption after a missed opportunity to participate in the Junior World Cup in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m very honoured and proud that I can go to France and represent Team Canada,” she said.

“I was on Team Canada three years ago before COVID, but then it got cancelled because of COVID.”

This is the last year she’s eligible to participate in the tournament and that motivates her.

“I know that when I grow out of it I won’t be able to do this again,” said Mahawa.

Their coach, Belinda Crockford, also known as “Bashin Bindy,” takes pride in mentoring the soon-to-be Canada representatives.

“My three juniors that have applied to play for Team Canada and made the roster, I’m very proud of,” said Crockford.

“Two of them have been playing for eight years, Ami and Mahawa, and K’Senya’s been playing for five years.”

The three athletes will represent Canada at the Junior World Cup in Valence, France, from July 28-30.

by Jacob Varcoe