The Bakersfield Diamond Divas opened their season with a crushing 130-36 win over the Prison City Derby Dames of Chino.

According to Skateland management, more than 700 people showed up to watch the two roller derby teams in action, which is the largest turnout ever experienced by the Diamond Divas. Twenty percent of the total proceeds were also donated to the Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County.

Several fans were there for their first time wanting to see what the buzz was about, and if the actual sport was anything like the Hollywood movie.

“I kept hearing about the Diamond Divas, and I knew they were a roller derby team,” said Lance Johnson, Bakersfield resident. “All I knew about roller derby, though, was the movie ‘Whip It,’ so I had to come see it for myself.”

Amy Sheffield, Fresno resident, was also there, for her first time, with her husband and two daughters.

“I’ve always had an interest in seeing a roller derby team in action, and this was my excuse to come into Bakersfield,” she said. “Plus, my 9-year-old daughter has now told me she wants to be a derby girl.”

There were two injuries late in the match, one on each team.

Number 647f for the Prison City Derby Dames, Carrie Attina, also known as I.B. Drunky, was hit and went down with approximately 6 minutes remaining in the match. According to EMT’s on the scene, she has a history of ACL injuries.

“At the beginning of last season, I tore my meniscus,” said Attina. “When I went down this time, I wasn’t moving for a while because I knew I was hurt. It feels like I tore my meniscus again.”

Number 18 for the Diamond Divas, Mary Huff, also known as Devious Darling, was severely overheated at the same time EMT’s were attending to Attina.

“I knew I had some time because the other jammer was injured,” said Huff. “So I just laid down, put a cool towel on my face and tried to take it easy. When I’m out there and I roll, I roll hard.”

The next match for the Diamond Divas is away in San Diego April 10. For more information regarding match dates and locations, visit www.bakersfielddiamondivas.com.