In early 2008, attention turned to Florida as several roller derby leagues prepared for a regional tournament that promised fast-paced matchups and rising talent. The Sunshine State Preview 2008 was not an official WFTDA playoff, but it became a vital stage for teams in the Southeast to test their strength and build regional pride.
This preview looks back at the players, teams, and expectations that shaped the event.
“The rink unites us; our wheels make us one.”
Participating Teams
The Sunshine State Preview 2008 featured several Florida-based leagues, along with a few Southern guests. While the full bracket shifted leading up to the event, three teams generated the most buzz:
Tampa entered with the most experienced roster, while Gainesville brought a younger, scrappier team hungry for exposure. The Gold Coast had a strong following and powerful jammers that made them early favorites.
What Made This Event Special
At the time, the Southeast derby scene was still building momentum. Leagues often operated independently, and interleague bouts were rare. The Sunshine State Preview 2008 offered more than a series of games — it gave these leagues a shared stage and a chance to grow derby in Florida.
For many fans and players, it was their first opportunity to witness how different derby styles unfolded in real-time.
Key Players
- Hardcore Prawn (Tampa Bay): A reliable pivot with fast footwork and clear track vision.
- Snap Dragon (Gainesville): Known for quick cuts and clean exits.
- Diva Destroyer (Gold Coast): Physical and fearless on both offense and defense.
Each of these skaters helped bring attention to their league and sparked local fan bases.
Legacy of the 2008 Preview
The Sunshine State Preview 2008 laid the groundwork for future Southeastern tournaments. It inspired more interleague collaboration and eventually contributed to Florida leagues joining WFTDA and gaining national relevance.
By the next year, several of these teams were scheduling travel bouts across state lines, proving that the Florida derby had arrived on the map.
From the Archives
This piece revisits the early days of the organized Florida derby and a preview that helped unite a region.
Find more interesting historical insights here.