Dylaina Campbell Will Compete in 2026 WFTDA Championships
The Akron skater will represent the Black Derby Collective at the international tournament in Sweden this October.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Ice Skating
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Akron native Dylaina Campbell will travel 4,114 miles to compete at the 2026 WFTDA Championships in Malmö, Sweden. The tournament is scheduled to take place from October 15 to October 18, 2026.
Why it matters
Campbell joined the Black Derby Collective to compete alongside a team of Black skaters, highlighting the importance of representation and community in the roller derby world. Her participation underscores the dedication required to reach the international stage in the sport.
Campbell has maintained a 13-year career in roller derby since starting at age 12. She transitioned to the jammer position at 14 and will be supported by five traveling teammates at the tournament.
The players
Dylaina Campbell
Also known as Devious Diva, she is a roller derby athlete who began skating at age 12 and currently serves as a junior coach.
Black Derby Collective
Based in Jonesboro, Georgia, this organization focuses on providing a team environment for Black skaters in roller derby.
Akron Roller Derby
This local organization supported Campbell by managing the fundraising and logistical efforts required for her international travel.
The details
Campbell, who skates under the name Devious Diva, previously competed for Northeast Ohio Roller Derby and Crooked River Roller Derby, where she currently coaches junior skaters. Akron Roller Derby assisted in the fundraising and logistics necessary for her international journey to the championships.
Timeline
Campbell started her skating career 13 years ago at a local rink.
She interviewed with regional media outlets late last month.
The 2026 WFTDA Championships occur from October 15 to October 18, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Campbell's appearance at the 2026 WFTDA Championships marks a significant milestone in her decade-long career within the sport. This international stage represents the peak of the current competitive season, reflecting the athlete's progression from a local skater to a global competitor.
Campbell's participation requires a 4,114-mile trip to represent the Northeast Ohio region on the world stage. Her journey illustrates the intensive logistical and financial preparation required for non-professional athletes to sustain high-level international competition.
The takeaway
Campbell demonstrates that dedicated athletes can find success and community through specialized clubs like the Black Derby Collective. Local supporters can look to her career as a roadmap for developing junior talent through coaching and sustained community engagement.
What happens next
Dylaina Campbell will compete at the 2026 WFTDA Championships in Malmö, Sweden, from October 15 to October 18, 2026.
Further reading
For more on regional athletes, visit the Ice Skating section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cleveland.
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