BY: AZ DERBY DAMES

Playoff spots and rankings are in contention with June's Arizona Derby Dames double-header. The Castle Sports Club has been packed every month in 2008 as Derby Dames fans root for their favorite teams and track the season standings.

On Saturday, June 14th, the season's two undefeated teams, The Runaway Brides and The Brutal Beauties face off. Then, the two teams without any wins this season, The Coffin Draggers and The Bombshells, fight to pull ahead in the standings.

Brutal Beauties' Kamikaze Kiwi is preparing her undefeated (for the third season straight) team for a fight for first against extreme new team for the 2008 season, The Runaway Brides. Both will want to continue their undefeated season to be known as 2008's toughest team to beat. Ann Thrash will lead the Brides into battle, with her eye on first. It's their first season, but many of the Brides have been Derby Dames from the beginning and have just as many experienced players as the Beauties.

For the second bout, The Coffin Draggers are back with captain Dolly de los Muertos skating for the first time since her knee injury in March. Also leading the Draggers will be new co-captain Dr. Mary Lu Botomy, stepping in for the recently stepped down Rae Jer. Since this is The Coffin Draggers last regulation season game, they are determined to defeat The Bombshells to keep their playoffs opportunity open. The Bombshells, also debuting a co-captain change and, led by tenacious captain Gabrihella Gauntlet, will be reaching for their first win of the season. Recently retired co-captain Rope Me Rhonda is replaced by Alkaline Trina. The Bombshells have worked hard through a tough season of multiple personnel changes and, though playing short, have a strong core team of some very dedicated skaters.

Arizona Derby Dames merchandise featuring logos and images of your favorite teams and skaters will be on sale. Raffles will be held for derby goodie bags, which include tickets to Arizona Derby Dames' next bout.  Stop by our recruiting tables to find our about your next chance to be an Arizona Derby Dame. Try outs will be at Mesa Skateland on Thursday, June 19th. Also, visit the various vendors set up in the lobby for fun accessories.

The Castle Sports Club is located at 11420 North 19th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85029 (602-331-2582). Doors will open at 7 p.m. with the bouts starting at 8 p.m. Advance tickets can be purchased for $8 at all Bookmans locations. Tickets will be $10 at the door the night of the bout. Contact the AZ Derby Dames MySpace for special rates for groups of 10 or more. Kids 12 & under are admitted free. After the game, follow the Dames to their official party venue, Hazelwood's First Place Bar and Grill, on Indian School just east of 36th Street.