tl;dr Roller derby - a sport and culture all wrapped into one, NOT TO BE MISSED. There's a great energy surrounding the Brewcity Bruisers - women of all shapes and sizes compete and the game/rules (and the hits the ladies take) are TOUGH AND NOT TO BE MESSED AROUND WITH. Also, they do this for fun! Realize these women "by day" are lawyers, teachers, nurses, hair stylists, businesses owners and all the like from around SE WI. And the PUNS - at the start they always announce the four teams - Crazy Eights, Maiden Milwaukee, Rushin' Roulettes and the Shevil Knevils. Not only are the team names cool enough, but each woman comes up with her own unique name and persona for the team she's on - my current favorite player's names include: - SUSAN B ANARCHY - MADAME FURIE - ANITA D'GROIN - MILWAUKEE'S BREAST (I mean .... come on!) Also, I cannot count how many times I've been at a derby bout and ran into someone from the "real world" I know - they're always supporting a player - daughter, wife, friend, etc. and it just reminds you what a cool and somewhat underground culture it is, and how many people are actually impacted by the BCB. It takes a little getting use to understanding how the "jammers" score points, but after you watch a couple of bouts, you quickly get into the swing of things. The Brewcity Bruisers rumble usually January through May at the Panther arena which is filled with delicious snacks and beer to squelch those halftime woes. The cheer leading squad "The Beerleaders" always add extra special touches with choreographed dances during half time. If you haven't went yet, get there and make sure to pick up some BCB merch reppin' your favorite team (you'll already have one by the end of your first visit.) read more

Brewcity Bruisers - DERB TIMES - Amateur Sports Teams Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Fun entertainment these girls really train and work to bump block and pass and score points. The officials and beer leaders along with the halftime shows plus the micro bruisers also add fun to the show. The turnout is a variety of ages. Parking is usually 1-2 blocks nearby and I noticed a few bars offering shuttles. So it's a good idea to support those bars as well. I'm not sure how often this happens but of the 3 times I've went 2 people have been hurt enough to stop the game. Leave it to say this is not a sport for prancing around the oval. I really like how the intros are very professional with the use of the scoreboard and announcers use of Twitter to interact with the fans in the seats.. food 4 Amb 4 expect more improvements at this location service 5 location 5 value 5 23/2016 read more

See all

I don't understand all the rules (yet), but watching people slam into each other on roller skates is all kinds of awesome. Thanks to a certain yelper, I won free tickets for my hubby and I to attend our first bout! While I haven't decided on a team just yet, he's leaning towards the Shevil Knevils. The competitions were tough and the cheerleaders were pretty great too! Halfway through the first game, we were already discussing attending more in the future. This would be a fun venue to bring out of towners to! Note to self: Next time, suicide seats! 6/2015 read more

See all

We came for the Championship last night at the Panther Arena. I am a Crazy 8's fan and brought my daughter for the first time. She's 9 and thought it was pretty cool. The names of some of the girls were funny and she gave me a look sometimes when they included "boob." Other than that, it's good for all ages. She understood how the game works very easily. The Crazy 8's won by a far out number,. We stayed for a bit of the actual championship game but it was past 9 and the little one was getting tired.. We got to go courtesy of Yelp! and they also had a charity collection where you could bring a food item to get discount tickets. It really is cheap enough where you can bring your family. My only complaint for the whole night was food service. I go to the first register. The servers don't know how to work the credit card machine. They were telling me I needed a new card when I know I just used it right before this and I actually got it last week. After 10 minutes of waiting they told me I would have to go to another spot. Then the second vendor didn't have any paper? $4.00 for a watered down soda? I saw plenty of people brining their own. read more

There is nothing quite like attending a Roller Derby! And, nothing beats supporting your local roller derby team! I attended the Brewcity Bruiser's Roller Derby Double Header. And man, you can tell that each player worked hard and proud to get there. Atmosphere was casual with a lot of loyal fans! My favorite is the punny names of the teammates, like Carabunga and Shirley Temper. The announcers explained the rules throughout, so it was easy for a first timer, like me, to semi catch on. It helped that I also watched Ellen Page's Whip It. At half time, the Milwaukee Bike Polo team showed off their skills with a mini game. Another group that I did not know existed in Milwaukee--- so much skill! Overall experience was fun and laid back. I would definitely attend again for the experience. Thank you to Yelp for sponsoring this event, and for the awesome tickets! read more

See all

I attended my first roller derby bout this past weekend and it was a blast. I dislike sports, except for boxing, so I was kind of surprised at how into this I got. I was yelling and cheering because it's just so darn exciting. All of these women have mad skills and it's so fast paced you'll be riveted. They have fun halftime entertainment and funny mascots running all over the place. I could never be a derby girl, because I'm such a dainty flower, but even so, I've got my name all picked out - Ellen Degenerate! This is the kind of event that makes me proud to be a Milwaukeean and I can tell everyone involved is, too. read more

The Bruisers are the business. These badass ladies bring something truly unique, positive, and inspiring to the Milwaukee cultural landscape. (The dedicated refs, NSOs, beerleaders and volunteers that help them do that are worth mentioning as well, as without them, there would be no roller derby.) Bouts are a great time; the home season runs January - May of each calendar year and you can snag tickets via the website: brewcitybruisers.com The sport is unique for so many reasons, my favorite reason being is that the current incarnation of the sport - which is nothing like the roller derby from days of yore you may have seen on TV if you're old enough - is female by nature first. We have a men's league here in MKE and while there are men's leagues across the country, the sport is female first. Inspiring role models and athletes who also lead normal, everyday lives, these women are a testament to hard work and dedication to something that's obviously a little more than just a hobby. Full disclosure: I used to play, and for nine years. I loved it and while my time on the track has come to a close, I'll always love and support the sport, this league, and my former team. Maiden Milwaukee - workin' class, kickin' ass - 4 eva! read more

Brewcity Bruisers - Yelp's super stoked to be an imperial sponsor for 2015! @brewcitybruiser #MKE #rollerderby - Amateur Sports Teams Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

I don't really know how to describe the Roller Derby experience, except to liken it to the Ferris Bueller of events: "it's very popular, Ed. The sportos, the motorheads, geeks, sluts, bloods, wasteoids, dweebies, dickheads -- they all adore it". The crowd is really diverse - families with kids, hipsters, college kids and apparently, Suburban VP Guy from work. (Resulting in an awkward "hey, so you went to the derby match too" discussion Monday morning) It's a refreshing atmosphere - people are dressed up as Yeti's, as deviled eggs and as Evil Kenievel. There are Beerleaders...way cooler than Cheerleaders. And of course, exciting roller derby action from some top notch teams. It took me a bit to understand the rules, and I still have a few questions: 1. What's with all the guys in morphsuits? 2. Why are the soda options at the arena so bizarre? RC Cola? Sun drop? 3. Can we get some beer guys working the stands? 4. The ref who calls himself "Hot Carl" has read Urban Dictionary, right? 5. Can the Jazzy Jewels perform at every halftime? Because that would be awesome. If you haven been, it's a great time! There are always discounts and everyone there is cool - go now! read more

Brewcity Bruisers rocked Panther arena last Saturday night. This was my first of many more events to come. If you haven't been to a bout you are missing out. Tons of attitude, aggressive women on wheels & more action than a hockey game. Seating is general admission, you can even sit on the floor and be up close and personal with the action. Awesome entertainment and lots of fun! Besides watching the girls battle it out, I had a great time people watching. It is a very mixed crowd - young people, old people, children, people in costumes... basically anything goes. The announcers were a riot, Beerleaders ( cheerleaders ) were hot and there were beer vendors in the stands so I didn't have to miss out on any of the action. Great selection of music too! Thanks Brewcity Bruisers, you found a new fan for life read more

See all

My first derby bout was the semifinals on Milwaukee day (that's 4-14 if you didn't know!). I arrive a little late, so I missed the whole intro where they explain the scoring and rules. After getting 3 explanations from friends, and watching for 30-45 minutes, I finally got the concept. And it turned out to be AWESOME. If you haven't been to a bout I highly recommend it. Awesome entertainment and lots of fun! Besides watching the girls battle it out, I had a great time people watching. It is a very mixed crowd - young people, old people, children, people in costumes... basically anything goes. Seating is general admission, you can even sit on the floor and be up close and personal with the action. They also have great entertainment between the bouts by the Beerleaders and special guests. Roller derby is probably my new favorite spectator sport in Milwaukee! read more

Roller derby that's fun and entertaining on so many levels. I can't explain it, but it's the same yet different from what I remember in the 70's. It's played on a flat track and it's relatively nonstop action. Like hockey or soccer, offense and defense is played simultaneously. The ladies really play hard and are competitive. It's definitely Milwaukee with teams like Maiden Milwaukee, and beer-leaders instead of cheerleaders! Teams, players, refs, and beer-leaders all have fun, wacky names that are a play on words. I'm a newbie to roller derby and I have to say it's worth checking out. I appreciated the announcers taking time to explain the game; you can even ask questions during the game via twitter, and they'll answer in real time. Thanks, Rachel F, for having the contest on yelp for the free tickets! We had fun! read more

See all

I'm not a sportshead by any stretch of the imagination, although I do enjoy hockey. I took in my first roller derby bouts this weekend, and it was a fast-paced good time! Maiden Milwaukee, the Shevil Knevils and the other gals were great. It took us a few minutes to figure out the object of the bout, and then we were all over it. The cheerleaders, volunteers and fans really get behind this sport, which makes it even more fun. Check it out! read more

This was my first time attending a roller derby event and I was lucky to attend the Championship and I was listening and learning more about how the sport is played. And it was fun to see the beer leaders and volunteers that are dedicated to the sport, and to see the fans and all of the excitement was a lot of fun. And to see all of the dedicated woman that have been doing this for years and their names are all cool :) great time watching the ladies compete. Kudos to them it looks tiring and a great workout I also enjoyed the beer bottle race (I think thats what its called) and to hear the fans cheer them on. read more

See all

Last night I went to my first Brewcity Bruisers Derby. I have to admit I wasn't sure what to expect and I was using "Whip It" as my point of reference. I was really sad because we were late (I wish it started at 8 because it's hard to go out to eat before and make it in time) so I missed the overview of the rules and it took a while to catch on, but once I caught on I was in for a treat. I loved the entertainment from the uniforms and the names alone, that was great! I think the announcers could be a bit more clear, I could tell they truly were trying to help the audience out but a little more clarity wouldn't hurt. I also agree it would be sweet if they sold beer in the stands. The Crazy Eights are some pretty intense chicas! I couldn't believe the action! Next time I go back I'm going to sit closer, as a newbie I think it would have helped to be closer up! Way to go Bruisers!! read more

Brewcity Bruisers - Action shot - Amateur Sports Teams Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Tonight was even more fun than last month. I also attended the post party at Turner Hall. Great mix of music and people!

It is hard to write something that hasn't been already posted about our amazing roller derby ladies. If you haven't been to a bout you are missing out. I highly recommend taking the Newport shuttle because you don't have to worry about parking and get a couple of free drinks on the shuttle....it is worth the extra $5. I like the US Cellular arena but it lacks the coziness of the old Franklin venue. I know that they outgrew it but there was something magical about that place. The arena is so big that it feels like the place is empty even though there are thousands of people in attendance. Not having played roller derby ever....you can discount me on my next observation. I wish that there were walls or railings on the track vs. the painted lines. Maybe I have watched too much TV that showed tracks with walls. Also, for the novices it would be nice to have some type of roller derby rules training. We got to the game late so we might have missed it. These ladies work hard and play hard. If you haven't been to a game yet you are missing out! read more

Oh my goodness! The Brewcity Bruisers are a blast to watch! I've gone to a few bouts. Once I brought a girlfriend who had it on her bucket list to see a women's roller derby bout. They delivered in a big way. We had so much fun watching the game that I had to help out, so for my next bout, I volunteered and slung merch to help the teams raise funds. Was that ever some of the most amazing people watching! A few weeks ago, I took a friend who has it on her bucket list to JOIN the Brewcity Bruisers. We both know Schoolhouse Rock, who is a jammer for the Crazy 8's. Man she was one FIERCE competitor. She was ruthless and scored many points. My friend and I cheered her on from the front row of the arena seating, up close and personal with the action. It's the spirit of the people who help out, play on the teams, coach and make these events happen that is the big draw here. Great energy. I went home happy after a night of enjoying myself, hanging out with my friends in the crowd, watching some great action and killer moves. What's not to like?!?! read more

Milwaukee. Roller derby. Fun times. What more can you ask for? So do yourself a favor & go to a bout. read more

See all

Girls just wanna have fun...and play derby! Are you looking for a way to make a cold, winter night more exciting? Run, don't walk, to a bout this season. Cheer on your favorite team, player or place a friendly wager on the racing beers...you are in for a treat no matter how you slice it. Not sure how derby works? Friendly volunteers will pass out cheat sheets and help explain...just ask. Looking to get even closer to the action? Check out the BCB webpage to find out when their next Bootcamp takes place. They will teach your the basics and prepare you to sign up for the Brewcity Bootleggers Rec League where you can learn more and opt into the draft for the following season. It is a fantastic, supportive group of women that you will feel honored to be a part of. (Don't worry guys...there is a men'd league in town now too and Bootcamp is co-ed! Don't forget about the kids...Micro Bruisers is there for you too.) They are always looking for skating and non-skating volunteers too. What are you waiting for? Join...I did! Fun Fact: After the bout, watch for details on the post part and celebrate with these super ladies! read more

Roller Derby bouts are my second favorite sport. First being hockey. I like to go whenever I get a chance. You should too. It is action packed fun on 8 wheels. read more

Brewcity Bruisers - Thanks for the tickets Yelp! - Amateur Sports Teams Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Brewcity is the local Milwaukee roller derby team.  Being involved with roller derby myself, they are a great group of ladies.  I enjoy going to their home team games as they always put on a good show, not just with the game competition but half time entertainment like the big bottles of beer skating in circles. They also organize a huge roller derby tournament in June called Midwest Brew Ha Ha.  About 20 teams come for the weekend to play multiple games and they have two tracks running at the same time.  A great way to see a lot of good roller derby action. They're a great representation for the sport of roller derby. read more

Wow! That's all I can say. These ladies are ferocious, don't let their size fool you! No, really, I saw one of them hip check another gal clean across the court! So, attended the Brewcity Bruisers opening season two bouts. The first bout was amazing, and although I entered the arena pretty ignorant as to what the rules in roller derby were, I picked up fairly quick -- ya see, the lady with the star on her helmet is the jammer! ;) But really, the Maidens and the Shevils put on an excellent show, even for someone who didn't understand what was going on. If you've never been to derby, it's so hilariously random, especially when the Shevil's mascot, a cape-wearing bike riding version of Evil Knievel is doing pop-wheelies around for no apparent reason. The first bout ended with me on my chair -- AND I DON'T EVEN KNOW DERBY! In the end, the Shevils were able to steal victory, that's right, I said steal, away from the Maidens by ONE point, ONE lousy point -- 101 to 100. It was so close, and all of these gals really gave it 110%, so my hat's off to them ... if I wore hats. I'm absolutely a fan and will be there next time. Oh, some useful info: The parking lot across the way is $15 to park, they don't really advertise that the way we pulled in. Get there early. If you want GOOD seats, and the doors open at 6:30, try to be there around then, no later than 6:45, and that's walking into the arena center at 6:45, not parking the car. Gooooooooooo Maidens! read more

See all

Some of these women scare me. Some of them intrigue me. All of them impress me. Shake off your preconceived ideas of what you think Roller Derby is, and head on down to the US Cellular Arena and check it out yourself. That's what we did and now it's become a must-attend event for us once a month. It's got everything: Tons of attitude, aggressive women on wheels, more action than a hockey game without referees, goofy team mascots, and cheerleaders right out of Nirvana's "Smells like teen spirit" video. Where else can you see half time entertainment consisting of either cheerleading grandmas, a drag-queen review or an exhibition bout by the young "Micro-bruisers." I just got to ask myself, What's with "body suit guy" and the "deviled egg guy." Not sure what they have to do with the Rollets team that they are mascots for, but they are certainly entertaining. Gotta love the Maiden Milwaukee's "Bronze Fonz." Way to go Nick, you rock!! Count on two hours of nonstop action and laughter. This is definitely the coolest new thing my wife and I started going to this winter. Great events for the kids. Seriously. You might not think so, but it is good, clean fun. Well, maybe not totally clean, but its certainly good fun. Shout out to the local Yelp community for turning us on to this. Again, hats off to all. read more

Growing up, I really didn't get along with my sisters. If there was one thing we could agree on way back in the 80's, it was watching the hour long block of UHF TV programming that included women's wrestling and roller derby. Fast forward many years later, and now I'm finally getting around to going to my first bout. My buddy expressed interest in going and I jumped on the opportunity. I left my sisters at home because they are still some stinky doo-doo heads. I always loved women's sports even though they tend to get a bum wrap with the testosterone fueled, jug head sports watching crowd. These girls here are the best, I'm sure they can convert even the most sexist fan with their speed, toughness and skill. As someone whose skateboarded (very badly) and pro wrestled (extremely bad) in the past, I can tell you I grimaced when some of these ladies took spills only to get up and brush it off. These ladies are the real deal, I can only hope to instill that same kind of toughness in my young daughter. If the athleticism of these ladies aren't enough for you, they give everything a major league sports team/ pro wrestling flair. That means gimmick teams, punny names, cheerleaders and crazy mascots. All the before mentioned are way out there, if I explained them all I would crash yelp. But here are my favs- Favorite Team- The Crazy Eight's. I love the ninja gimmick, I love that they're experts in hand to hand combat, I love that one of the girls weapon of choice is a Playstation controller, I love that they come out to Kanye and Jay, I love everything about these girls! Favorite Mascot- While the Old Milwaukee Beer Guy was pretty cool, Evil from the Shevil Knevils took the cake, as he rode around doing tricks on his mountain bike and capping it all off with a Knevil style sliding crash off the bike. Awesome. Favorite Fan Section- The Communist Block. The cheering section for the Rushin Roulettes took all the attention away from the game as they waltzed in with their Eastern European Military inspired garb and punny signs utilizing the names of random Soviet leaders. I was amazed by the creativity. Favorite Derby Girl- Definitely Super Hera. Superheroes always win in my book. Now that's done, what's up with the random pea pod/lime green mascot thingee that was running around? I couldn't figure out what he was, what team he belonged to or what punny thing was he made to represent. All in all, a great time and I will definitely be back. read more

I was a roller derby neophyte when I visited the Brew City Bruisers as part of a YELP Event last Friday. I looked up the general rules of the game prior to attending so I had a sense of the object of the game. I didn't know that the "Bruisers" are actually composed of 4 different teams, none named the Bruisers, so I was confused for awhile. I did expect to have fun and I definitely did! I had no idea there would be so many groupies dressed up and cheering on their favorite team. If you are looking for a very different and very fun Friday nite, I highly recommend an outing to the U.S. Cellular arena to watch Roller Derby! read more

So much fun for all ages. I have been to a few bouts. Some with friends, but most with my whole family (grade school kids.) The best advise I can give you is to do a little learning about the game prior to your first bout as it can be a little confusing to the uninitiated. Check youtube for some vids that explain the basic rules and gameplay. Here is a nice short one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fgj2igYuyoo When picking your seats you can get all the way on the floor and see the action up close and hear the hits and all, or sit up a bit and get a better feel for the strategy. I would suggest sitting on the side of the track (think half court line, not behind where the basket would be in basket ball.) All home bouts are actually two full bouts. Two teams play a full bout, then there is usually some entertainment, then a different two teams come out and play a bout. The arena is great and the food and drink prices are in line with what you would expect at an Admirals or Wave game. If you are not coming with kids, there is always a free after party somewhere near by that is open to the public and super fun. Bring friends or family and have a great time! read more

OK...I think it is time to update this review! The Bruisers were one of the first reviews I wrote here on Yelp! Two short sentences and support for what turned out to be the league Champions. Oh, what changes in a year! Since that first review I have gone to every bout at the US Cellular arena and even caught a few All Star bouts at Franklin Sports Complex!. The bouts never get old! They are full of action and I seem to always be on the edge of my seat. I have never paid full price for a ticket. There is always either a coupon or a chance to bring in food or school supplies to get a discounted price. Seating is general admission, so I always get there when the doors open to claim a section for us. Last night's half time show was the best (behind of course the Jazzy Jewels). It was the Micro Bruisers. The local derby league for girls 8-17! Oh, how I wish that was around when I was young! What a great way for these girls to build confidence in themselves at a young age. My only question is....do you have to keep the derby name you pick when you are 8 for the rest of your career? There were some differing opinions in my group last night. This year I am a proud supporter of last year's under-dogs. Pink and Black for Life!! Last years under-dog is this years Champion!! read more

Brewcity Bruisers - Custom Foam Fingers FTW!! - Amateur Sports Teams Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I've never gone to a Brewcity Bruisers match until last night. I always thought it was some small cute thing with a cult following. Well, in a way, I guess it is.....but I was amazed at how many people were there, and how supportive of the teams they were. I thought I could show up half an hour before the bout and get good seats but nope....the arena was packed when I rolled in. They did a good job of explaining how the derby worked before the first match got underway, but I feel like they could have gone a little more in depth for newbies like me. But then again, they don't do that at basketball or baseball games, so I guess it makes sense. It's really not all that hard to understand once you get the jist of it. On a normal night, you get 2 matches for the price of one. After watching the first bout from about halfway up in the arena, I decided to take the 2nd bout in on the floor and whoa, a) it's really cool that it's general admission and you can do that, and b) holy cow, these girls are intense up close. Watching from the floor was just really cool. I highly suggest you do it if you go to a bout. At this point, I'm clearing my calendar for the rest of the year, I can't wait to see more! read more

I recently attended my first Brewcity Bruisers bout and was more than impressed. Entertainment in any form is a means of escape for me. I generally turn on, tune in...and don't wanted to be distracted as mind leaves body. From the time I arrived at US Cellular Arena I was treated like royalty. I met Rushin' Rollettes' Grins n Roses outside while I was waiting for the doors to open and was politely given the time and instructions to cheer her team on to victory that night. The gal that opened the doors gave me a tour through the arena and pointed me to the box office for ticket purchase. All things should flow this smoothly in life...seriously. The action was intense (especially the second bout), the entertaintainment provided by the various cast of characters was very entertaining, and the derby girls were incredibly friendly to my friend's daughter who brought her program around to be signed after the bouts had ended. It honestly was a great experience. The thing I love best about Brewcity Bruisers is that these gals are out there doing positive things in our community. They're making a change. While it really should be expected from all of us, very few step up to the plate and make a difference...I acknowledge and applaud those who do. I will definitely be there for the next bout supporting the Bruisers! read more

After the semi-final bout I can confidently bump up my review to a solid 5 star! The announcers were SOOO much easier to understand and there were beer vendors in the stands so I didn't have to miss any of the action. I was bummed I had to miss the championship and am super excited for next season! read more

Nothing beats a night of roller derby! The zanny fandom and the fun derby names create an added layer of entertainment not seen in other sports, but the REAL appeal is that derby is a serious sport, and that the players treat it as such. Derby is a unique sport, in which offense and defense are played simultaneously. Hard hits. Speedy skaters. It's a ton of fun and something everyone should experience in their lifetime. read more

Brewcity Bruisers - Championship time! - Amateur Sports Teams Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

B rewcity Bruisers calls U.S. Cellular Arena their home. R aucous fans have the option of sitting on the floor (cheek seats), but must be 18. E veryone that I saw was having a great time cheering and whooping and hollering. W hat's to eat? Nachos, popcorn, hot dogs, brats, burgers, and of course, beer. C hecking out the rules of the game before you go will help a little bit. I found that the emcee's were helpful in explaining general rules and concepts. The gals that play have diverse backgrounds; former "jocks" tend to be jammers. Y ou'll likely find yourself cheering for an "anti-hero" at some point during the bouts. B ust'em Up! Break through that Defense, Scooter/Skittle/Kapow (the only ones I remember, sorry) R ollerskates + athleticism + potential for maiming = total blast and a decent value U nexpectedly, event venue staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. I ntelligence and strategy play a huge role for the lead jammer, S ince they can collect points off of opponents sitting in the penalty box. E scape the cold of winter with some smashing good fun. R est assured, medical staff are on site in case injuries happen to the skaters. S top procrastinating, and go get yourself some tickets already! Location: 4 out of 5 U.S. Cellular is located in the sporty/trendy part of town. If you know where to look for it, free parking exists all around within a short 3 - 4 minute walk, and there are plenty of public transportation options as well. Restaurants and bars abound as well for those seeking food/drink before and/or after the bouts. "Fun" Factor: 5 out of 5 This sh!t is hilariously entertaining. After you sort of figure out how the scoring works, you either find yourself cheering for the jammer(s), or depending on the personality that they give off, you find yourself cheering for the defense. You can just TELL that some of these girls used to play sports in either high school or college (a quick check on the website confirmed my suspicions), and they give off that ultra competitive and almost antagonistic/sore winner vibe. At which time - you start cheering for the "defensive line" (colloquially...I realize there's a technical term for it) to well, maybe/kinda/sorta put a nice hit on the young whippersnapper. To be clear, it's not like they can just throw an elbow or chop block from behind, but at least with their bodies and with their teammates' help/positioning, they can prevent the jammer from going through. All in good competitive fun, of course - and there IS a physician on standby with an ambulance waiting just in case. Value: 4.5 out of 5 Skip the ticketmaster fees and go to the box office either in advance or when doors open. It's basically 20 bucks GA seating. Get there early enough with a blanket and you can sit on the floor maybe 15 feet away from the action. If you prefer traditionally seating, there's really not a bad seat in the house as it's not like they're "Celling" out of all the seats (see what I did there?). Bouts consist of two 30-minute halves, so you get a total of 2 hours of action for 20 bucks. I mean, not quite as cheap as sitting in the cheap seats of a Bucks game for 7.50, but for the experience and fun factor - pretty much worth every penny. Overall: 5 out of 5 I'm generally reluctant to give 5 star reviews as I think they're overused, but even objectively - this was a pretty awesome time. read more

I'll admit I was skeptical. I was expecting the Fake Fight Filled Fiasco of my youth. What I got might just be the best entertainment value in Milwaukee! It is the perfect combination of Campiness, Comedy and Competitiveness with just a touch of Sexiness mixed in. I got there a few minutes late, so I missed the tutorial on the rules, so I am still a little confused about the scoring. Even with that said, there was enough action to keep me on the edge of my seat the whole night. I can't wait for next month's bout!!! read more

Having gone to two nights of roller derby bouts now (thanks, Yelp!), I can 100% for sure say I'm a Brewcity Bruisers fan! The action is fast-paced, the crowd makes for excellent people-watching, and the competition is tough. I found that having a program or going with an experienced fan definitely helps with understanding the sport if you're new, but the announcers do a great job of filling in the gaps, too. Overall, it's an awesome experience and something I'd highly recommend to my fellow Milwaukeeans! read more

yay. they rock. it's a fun night. go cheer them on.

Duh. I love the derby. I love it so much, that I run around with gold paint on and a nasty wig for the one and only Maiden Milwaukee, the best team in the land. Keep up the awesomeness. read more

If you're around my age, you might remember roller derby in the disco 1970s, when there were both men's and women's teams, and it was kind of a blue-collar night out, with some similarities to "pro" wrestling. There's a movie from the time period, starring Raquel Welch (with a very cute little Jodie Foster playing her young daughter), that I enjoyed back in the day, but didn't really stand the test of time. Anyway, today's roller derby isn't really like that, though the rules are basically similar. 21st century roller derby is a woman's sport, with more emphasis on sporting competition than the soap opera melodramatic antics that characterize professional wrestling. There is some humorous posturing and bravada going on, but it's no longer central. The crowd is more middle class, though more diverse, and a lot more girls and women are fans. I'd say it's more like arena football nowadays in that most of the matches are close, it's good family entertainment, and parking isn't usually a problem. There are so few places to go with a teenage niece that we're both going to enjoy, and this is one of those places. I think most people would have fun, I recommend the Brewcity Bruisers for everyone except for really uptight extreme-right-wing Evangelical Christians, children under three or so, and the vision impaired (it's a pretty visual thing). read more

I am no longer a roller Derby virgin! We have a friend on the Maiden Milwaukee so we couldn't resist spending a Friday night at the Arena watching her skate. I got free Tickets from Yelp (Thanks Rachel) and we go there in the middle of the first bout. We found a couple of seats (there were a lot more people than I expected) and started watching. We must have looked a little lost because this guy with a fluorescent shirt (Ask me about Roller Derby) came up and explained the rules to us (which suddenly made everything a lot clearer). When the first match ended, we made our way to floor to watch the Maidens skate. There was a bar on the floor so grabbed a couple of beers and got rink side. I was impressed. There is a lot of action and a lot of fun. Constant rotation of skaters in and out means non-stop action. It's a great way to spend a night. Go ahead give it a try and have fun. We did and we'll be back with our friends who haven't see it yet but we know would have a blast! read more

Great action, athleticism, and fun. Many of my friends have remarked that this is the most fun they've had at a sporting event in a long time! read more

A very fun time. I can't believe I haven't been before now. We had great seats, but you can see all the action from pretty much any where. Drinks and food are pretty much as over priced as any sporting event. 2 bouts per event, so you get a good amount of game play for your money. Make sure to get a rules sheet from one of the guys in green walking around in the beginning, they only come around once. read more