We interviewed our Head of Ticketing, Super Hutt, about our new bouting location! She plays for the Delta Delta Di and helped get us set up at the Coliseum.
Tell us a bit about the new venue!
The Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum on the State Fairgrounds, on the site of the former Hippodrome, is most commonly associated with the horse shows and livestock competitions during fair-time. Opened in 1951, the coliseum also hosted hockey during the winter months since 1975. Dwindling demand and aging equipment over the years made this cost-prohibitive for the coliseum and this opened up the opportunity for the scheduling of other retail/event space over the winter.
Who gave us the lead?
My mother was actually the one that informed me the coliseum had availability opening up after the end of its last hockey season this year. One of my younger brothers played hockey at the coliseum, and although, unfortunately, it meant his hockey league and other leagues were now homeless, it gave the North Star Roller Girls the opportunity to continue the tradition of the coliseum hosting sporting events during the winter months; albeit on wheels instead of blades.
What are the big differences fans will notice? What won’t change?
First and foremost, I believe the fans will notice that the coliseum arena, particularly the elevated seating, will definitely make the venue feel more appropriate for watching, and enjoying, roller derby. Our former venue, the Minneapolis Convention Center, was wonderful for adapting the large, open space to suit our needs, but the coliseum comes with its own built-in personality that truly feels it is intended for hosting spectator sports. Additionally, the coliseum offers ample seating and plenty of free parking. Parking is recommended at the Midway Parking Lot and street parking is also available, all of which is free. Keeping in line with what our fans have come to expect from our bouts, we are continuing with having themed bouts, music by Machinnes, preshow and halftime performances, and food/beverages available at all our bouts.
We will be continuing the same format for our bouts, with two matchups each bout, and will begin our season with a mini-tournament with all of our home teams. Then our home teams will battle one another for the coveted championship title for the rest of the season. Also, one bout this season will feature our travel teams; teams they will be playing against will be announced soon.
Are there any changes to ticket types?
Our former “bleacher seating” is now called “arena seating” which gives our fans a greater vantage point and reduces obstructions to the action. Trackside seating, which is seating directly on the floor and right next to the track, will still be available and are by far the best seats in the house. Groups of 20 or more still qualify for their own reserved section, designated accessible seating is available, and children 9 and under still will receive free admission with an adult ticket purchase. With relocating outside of downtown Minneapolis, we were also able to pass on our cost savings to our fans with reduced ticket prices this season. For example, a general admission arena season ticket is only $10 per bout, which is a great bargain for entertainment on a Saturday night!
Tell me there will be beer!
In addition to their typical beer offerings, the coliseum will be serving the amazing local brew of our sponsor, NorthGate Brewing Company. Our after parties this season will be hosted by Grumpy’s Bar & Grill in Roseville.
As a skater, what are you looking forward to the most about this season?
Our new venue will bring great amenities for skaters too, such as locker rooms. But mostly, I can’t wait until November 8th for our fans to experience the new venue, and all it has to offer, along with us. We are so excited for this season at our new home and are looking forward to this being our best season yet!
