Mermaids vs. Pirates: Ocala Roller Derby Brings Nautical Fun and Fierce Competition to Downtown 

Saga CommunicationsOcala Roller Derby Pirates and Mermaids. Amber Battillo/352today

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Ocala Downtown Market turned into a nautical arena on Sunday, Aug. 24, as Ocala Roller Derby presented its “Mermaids vs. Pirates” scrimmage game. Fans filled the venue with pirate hats, shimmering mermaid scales and plenty of derby energy for a lighthearted but competitive bout that showcased both the sport’s intensity and its community spirit.  

Skaters came from across Florida, including Ocala, Gainesville, Orlando, Tampa and St. Petersburg, bringing a mix of styles and hometown pride to the track. Doors opened at 1:30 p.m. and the first whistle blew at 2 p.m., kicking off an afternoon of themed entertainment and athletic action. Tickets were $10 with free admission for children under 12. In addition to cheering on their favorite skaters, attendees were encouraged to support the event’s partner charity, A Mother’s Love Ministry, by donating nonperishable pantry items for Marion County’s homeless community. 

A skater from the Mermaid team posing for a photo while on the move.
Mermaids’ player, KIttie Claws, poses for a photo mid-match.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
A skater from the Mermaids team accelerates past the sideline crowd.
Determination in every stride – One of the Mermaids’ Pivot skaters, Bam Bam, pushes forward during a match.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Pack of skaters clustered tightly mid-jam.
The pack holds tight as Pirates and Mermaids fight for position, with Mermaids captain, Poise N Control, takes spot of lead jammer.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Several skaters from both teams sprint forward around the track.
Speed and teamwork keep the jam alive.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Skaters from both teams in a jam mid-match.
Derby action as Pirates and Mermaids battle it out on the track.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today

The high-seas showdown followed a lively Friday night pre-party at Mutiny, where the team invited fans to a Pirate/Mermaid Theme Night. Supporters who arrived in costume received free stickers, and the best-dressed participants competed for a chance to win tickets to the next roller derby game. Players mingled with fans in a relaxed atmosphere, giving newcomers an opportunity to meet Ocala Roller Derby outside the rink. 

By game day, the playful spirit carried over into the stands. Fans waved flags and swords and cheered for their favorite sea maidens as the teams took the track. Referees and volunteers joined the fun by sporting striped pirate shirts and sparkling mermaid colors.  

Once the whistle sounded, the scrimmage delivered on intensity. The Mermaids relied on speed and quick footwork to navigate defensive walls, while the Pirates countered with coordinated, physical blocking. Skaters exchanged powerful hits, daring jams and crowd-pleasing maneuvers in a game that remained neck and neck throughout. Ultimately, the Pirates pulled ahead to claim a 228-183 victory. Between jams, spectators snapped photos with costumed players, browsed merchandise tables and enjoyed a family-friendly atmosphere in the downtown setting. 

Line of skaters in mermaid colors standing in formation.
Skaters line up before the game.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Wide shot of Pirates team before the game.
The Pirates team with their bench coaches, Haley’s Vomit and RaPunchel, before the game.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Wide shot of the Mermaids with their bench coach before the game.
The Mermaid team and bench coach, WREXX, posing before a game.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Small group of Pirates skaters in costume.
Ocala Roller Derby Pirates decked out in their gear preparing for a high-seas adventure in the rink.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Full pirates team photo.
Ocala Roller Derby Pirates.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Full mermaids team photo.
Ocala Roller Derby Mermaids.
Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today

The scrimmage also highlighted Ocala Roller Derby’s ongoing growth. Organizers emphasized that the team’s events are not just about competition but also about community involvement. By blending themed entertainment with charity support, the team continues to expand its reach beyond the rink and is currently seeking a new, permanent home.  

Ocala Roller Derby’s next games are scheduled at home: Sept. 28 vs. Gainesville Brawl Stars, Oct. 26 vs. Orlando Sol Crushers and Dec. 14 for their “Santa vs. Elves” holiday bout. Fans can follow the team on Facebook for updates and information. Whether rooting for the Pirates or for the Mermaids, supporters left Sunday’s scrimmage with plenty to talk about – and a reminder that on the track, Ocala Roller Derby is here to slay.