Gas City Roller Derby Association teen earns award competing at junior world cup

“Choosing me as tournament MVP blocker really shows me and I hope shows others that if you put the work, dedication and motivation into something despite the adversities along the way, it will pay off.”

This was her third time set to represent Team Canada.

She first made the open team at the age of 13 in 2020, that World Cup was set to be in Canada, but was cancelled due to Covid-19 health measures.

Traore also competed on both the open and female division teams in the 2023 World Cup held in Valence, France.

Canada placed fifth out of six teams in the open category in 2025, although Traore said winning was not the only purpose of the team.

“It was about the commitment, determination and heart of working together as a unity,” Traore said.

A total of 10 countries competed at the event between the open and female categories.

—

Traore walks in with Team Canada during the opening ceremonies. Courtesy/JRDA – Canada

The first time travelling to Australia for Traore, she said it was a great experience, but not exactly what was expected.

“I was scared more about the big spiders crawling around or kangaroos on the roads, but luckily I didn’t run into neither of those,” Traore said with a laugh.

“My team went to the koala sanctuary before the first day of the tournament and it was a great team bonding moment for us and was very cool to see all different types of animals that are foreign to us Canadians,” she added.

“This experience was absolutely surreal, not only being able to compete against the best of each country but also finally being able to see what our team and myself could do together after the endless work we have put in throughout the year.”

She said there was also some new friends and old friends from different countries visted with during the event.

Traore said she has been competing in the sports since she was eight-years-old.

“I started playing roller derby at a young age because my mother plays, she also coaches,” Traore said.

“What I enjoy most about the sport is since it is a full contact sport, you have to use different strategies and body strengths to defend and offend against the other team. For these strategies to be successful you have to push yourself and your teammates to work as one and be the best that we can be as a team.”

Traore, a recent high school graduate will move to Calgary for school in the fall where she will continue to compete in roller derby.

“I have been playing adults as well for a couple years now. This last year I decided to join the Calgary all-star WFTDA [World Flat Track Derby Association] team,” she added.

“I will continue to do that next year as well as take on a new role as a coach for the Rocky View level three juniors.”

The Gas City Roller Derby Association put a message on social media proud of Traore’s accomplishment.

“We have all loved watching Hawa grow and excel at this sport, and she has blossomed into a leader and a force to be reckoned with. We can’t wait to see what she does next.”

by Jesse Gill

Gas City Roller Derby Association teen earns award competing at junior world cup

Our Community