It will be a dream realized for the Southland Slashers Roller Derby team. With deep roots in the ares, the non-profit organization will finally host its first-bout ever on Friday at Channahon's Skateland Roller Rink.

Demand for the event has been so great in the days leading up to it that the facility is sold out, which is a good predicament for the league to be in.

"The idea was to pre-sale the event on line and then sell the remaining tickets at the door," Southland Slashers public relations director Wylde Lil Hipcheck said. "It's definitely something that is exciting for the community, the friends and families, and the ticket sales show that."