The Thunderbirds RU-vid page is dedicated to classic roller derby from the golden age of the sport. This is defined as professional (athletes are paid), banked track skating, featuring both women and men on quad roller skaters. The classic version of the Thunderbirds was active from 1960 to 1993, with the “golden age” being the period from 1961 to 1974.
The administrators of this page do not claim ownership of any videos posted here. These videos were provided to us from many sources and have often been published on other RU-vid pages. We do not seek monetary gain. This is no profit. We hope to bring back memories and joy to those who loved Roller Games and the T-Birds.
If you’re interested in connecting with the current Thunderbirds organization, visit facebook.com/golatbirdsgo/ for more information about upcoming games. This current version of the team is competing in exciting flat-track women’s roller derby and is managed by former T-Bird star Stephanie Garcia.
I don't remember the names of the positions, but one team is on the offense, and they had to break one of their teammates out of the pack. The defensive team would try to prevent this. Once broken out, the freed skater had to catch up with the pack. The defensive team would have these linenbacker-like women who would try to keep her from rejoining the pack. The offense would score a point if she was able to rejoin by getting past these monstrous defensive players. At that point the roles are switched and the defense would be on the offense. At times it was quite brutal and bloody with fights taking place in the middle (infield) or skaters being forced into and over the outer rail.
Terri Lynch lived about two blocks away from me in South El Monte (1960s). It was a big deal to go to her house on Halloween night. Terri would answer the door in her Thunderbird uniform to hand out candy. Always greeted us with a big smile. 💕
Now, that's what I'm talkin' about! Back in the day, the Los Angeles Thunderbirds was so much fun and big-time entertainment!! We could really use some of that great entertainment today. I'll always love the T-Birds. They gave me the inspiration that I required to learn how to rollerskate as a young kid. They were fantastic!!! 👏
7/20/24 Watching my favorite skaters in another Roller Games telecast. Such good times. My team was the Thunderbirds, but I loved these other teams and skaters as well. So much action from so make great skaters on both teams. Thank you to all the skaters who made this a great sport. Your all are not forgotten! ❤
GREAT VIDEO IF PETER AND ED DERIAN HAD NOT PUT THERE OWN PICTURES UP THERE BLOCKING THE VIDEO. IF THEY CAN TAKE THERE PICTURES OUT OF THERE THEY SHOULD DO THIS BECAUSE THERE IS VERY LITTLE VIDEO OF THE WARRIORS EXIST FROM 1970-1971.
