And these strong women are hoping to show off their sport to other girls and women from across the region.

North East Roller Derby will host the Statewide Stampede roller derby finals next month in Wangaratta and hope the event on September 14 will "open people's eyes" to the lesser known sport.

"It is seriously a sport anyone, of any age can play," NERD skater Thelma "Vlam" Vlamis said.

"For me I fell in love with roller derby by watching it being played and I haven't looked back.

"I am competitive and I think that is what I love about it.

"It is a contact sport and something that makes you feel really strong and we are just such a welcoming club it is something I really love doing."

For Lacey "Lulu" Hyland, who has only been skating since October, roller derby is about continually learning.

"I am always learning and the club has been the best in welcoming me and introducing me to the sport," she said. "Anyone can do it and I think a lot of people don't realise that."

Ms Hyland said there are levels within the team.

"I am working up the levels and I am enjoying playing different roles as I go," she said.

"It isn't all what you see in movies, roller derby is a lot more about being physical without hurting each other deliberately.

"There are rules in place to ensure people don't deliberately hurt others.

"But the physicality is something which draws a lot of women in."

After winning back-to-back games last week NERD is hosting the tournament finals at Barr Reserve with more than 100 skaters and 200 spectators expected.

"And that is the best way to experience roller derby for the first time," Ms Vlamis said.

"It is how I fell in love with the sport and I think it is the best way to learn what the sport is all about.

"You see how physical it is but also how it is about strategy as well.

"Everyone should come and check it out while the state finals are in town."

The Border Mail