2003: The Texas Rollergirls are formed.

2013: The original modern flat track Roller Derby enters its tenth year tonight, February 10.

Re-running last year’s nail-biting season closer, at 6pm a new-look Hustlers try to break their losing streak when they face the rising Honky Tonk Heartbreakers. Then at 7.30pm the defending champions, the Hell Marys, try to make it 3-0 over the Hotrod Honeys.

I handicapped this year’s teams earlier this week, but all that comes with a big coda. The latest revisions to the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association‘s rules come with two massive changes: An end to the traditional two-whistle start, and no more minor penalties. In footballing terms, that’s like dumping the snap and ending five yard penalties. Think about how much that changes the game. Think how much that could blow the doors wide open.

Here’s a teaser of what you can expect tonight:

Youtube video

Doors open at 5pm at the Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez. For more info visit www.texasrollergirls.org. If you can’t make it to the bout, you can always watch the bout feed at www.texasrollergirls.org/bouts/watch-us-live. Either way, follow us on Twitter at @AusChronSports.

This article appears in February 8 • 2013.

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The Chronicle's first Culture Desk editor, Richard has reported on Austin's growing film production and appreciation scene for over a decade. A graduate of the universities of York, Stirling, and UT-Austin, a Rotten Tomatoes certified critic, and eight-time Best of Austin winner, he's currently at work on two books and a play.