A ROLLER derby team is celebrating a recent tournament victory and are hoping to grow participation in the sport.

Eastbourne’s mixed team of men and women, the A-Bombs, entered and a rookie tournament in Essex and emerged victorious after competing in the final against close rivals Weald.

The A-Bombs entered a team of seven skaters, three men and four women, into the annual tournament hosted by Essex Men’s Roller Derby.

Jez English, team captain of the A-Bombs, from Eastbourne, said the sport is growing

He said: “The recent victory for Eastbourne’s A-Bombs at Essex Sevens was a massive success for the team and all its members.

“As the sport is tough, we train hard and there is no such thing as an easy game.

“Although only a few of the members took part on the day, everyone in the league should be proud of the victory as they all train regularly and contribute to the team’s success.

“It was a proud moment accepting the trophy as team captain and really shows how far we have progressed as a team, steered by Team Coach Emma Nicholson.”

The Essex Sevens event showcased a rookie tournament as well as an advanced tournament, featuring teams from around the UK.

The advanced tournament also saw some international players in attendance and Scottish-assembled team Irn Brn (Iron Born) were victorious in the final.

Eastbourne Roller Derby is known locally for hosting the outdoor summer event Eastbourne Extreme on Eastbourne seafront.

Falling this year on July 15 and 16, the event includes Eastbourne vs The World on the Saturday, showcasing Eastbourne’s men’s, women’s, mixed and children’s teams against teams from other leagues and another sevens tournament on the Sunday.

Mr English said: “I see the sport gaining interest and progressing well locally, nationally and internationally.

“Local intake is up steadily year-on-year and we have very strong national women’s and men’s teams and try-outs for Team England are increasingly popular among players nationwide.

“Anyone getting involved and finding out more about this fast paced, full contact, infinitely tactical sport, seems to then have trouble leaving it.

“Give it that chance and it will not disappoint.”

Eastbourne Roller Derby is one of the few leagues currently offering training sessions for all age groups.

Training sessions are currently held at the Causeway School in Eastbourne and at the Y Centre in Hastings. For more information or to get involved search Facebook for Eastbourne Roller Derby.