The Green Mountain Derby Dames can usually be spotted flying around a flat track on roller skates. They're slowing their pace this summer, though, to host Vermont's first Junior Roller Derby Camp for girls in grades 3 through 12. "This is a sport about strong girls," explains camp director Elaine Sopchak. "It's an opportunity for girls to really bond and become confident in a very safe and accepting atmosphere." In the empowering weeklong session, campers of all skill levels master the basics of the sport, including how to maneuver on old-school quad skates. They'll also learn about endurance and teamwork, and exercise their creativity in derby-themed crafts. Adult derby participants can get pretty beat up while "blocking" their opponents, but Sopchak emphasizes safety first. "No one's gonna get knocked over," she promises.

Junior Roller Derby Camp: Monday, July 22, through Friday, July 26, 1-5 p.m., at the Essex High School skating rink. $61-71. For more information about gear options and to register, call 878-1375 or visit ejrp.org.