Two Vancouver Island teens to represent Canada at international roller derby tournament

Two Vancouver Island teens are gearing up to represent Canada on the international roller derby stage after being selected for the national Team Canada Junior squad.

Chloe Crotty, 17, known by her derby name “Tuffy,” and Teaghan Dillon, 18, aka “Kitty Catapult,” have secured spots on the team following a rigorous try-out process.

These dedicated athletes, who play for Victoria’s Rotten Apples (the junior team of the Eves of Destruction Roller Derby League), are set to compete at the Junior Roller Derby World Cup in Brisbane, Australia, in July 2025.

Both athletes served as captain for the Rotten Apples and competing last season on BC’s provincial roller derby team, West Coast Spirit, where Crotty was a co-captain.

“I’m very proud to be representing our country on an international level. It takes serious physical and mental training and a lot of heart,” said Dillon on his journey ahead

Crotty, equally thrilled, highlighted the long journey that led to this achievement. “This took years of hard work and dedication,” she said. “I feel so grateful for the opportunity to represent Canada with one of my closest friends.”

“I’ve watched these two grow up playing roller derby,” said Kiana McKinstry, coach for the Rotten Apples.

“Achieving their dream of joining Team Canada is a testament to their hard work, determination, and passion for the sport. Team Canada is so lucky to have them both, and I will be cheering them on every step of the way.”

The Junior Roller Derby World Cup will feature intense competition from teams worldwide, including the United States, France, New Zealand, and Australia. The Rotten Apples have already built a reputation on this international stage, with former teammate Naomi “Scream Soda” Morrell captaining Team Canada to a bronze medal in the 2023 World Cup.

Competing internationally in roller derby, however, requires significant financial resources, with athletes covering all their own expenses—from new uniforms and top-notch gear to travel and accommodation.

To support their journey, Crotty and Dillon have launched a GoFundMe campaign. They are also organizing fundraising events to help cover the costs of their trip.