Roller Derby

What is roller derby? What kind of gear do you need? What is the pledge?

Find the answer to these questions below!

 

The Game

 Jammer

  • The jammer is the offensive player who scores points,
  • They wear a helmet cover called a panty with a star on each side.

Pivot

  • The pivot is the defensive player who sets the pace of the pack.
  • They wear a helmet panty with a big stripe down the middle.
  • Can be involved in a star pass where the jammer passes the star panty to the pivot. Pivot then becomes the jammer for that jam.

Blockers

  • The defensive players on the track.
  • Helps their jammer find a path through the pack.
  • Stops the opposing jammer from getting through the pack.

 

The Gear

 Equipment

  • Roller skates (quad skates)
  • Helmet
  • Mouth guard
  • Elbow and knee pads
  • Wrist guard
  • Any other protective equipment you feel like wearing, but doesn’t hinder other skaters (e.g., sport glasses, padded shorts, etc.) 

Requirements

  • Use of all protective equipment is mandatory for practice and games. Missing equipment = no playing.
  • Filled out waivers is mandatory before being allowed to participate in the practices and games.

Where to Buy

 

The Pledge

 Do:

  • Join to be a part of a fun, recreational and competitive sport.
  • Realize that it is a contact sport and there is risk of injury.
  • Look forward to making many new friends and contacts all over the world.
  • Plan to commit your time. 
  • Seek out knowledge on things you’re unsure of. Never be afraid to ask fellow derby people.
  • Network as much as possible (the internet makes it easy).
  • Promote the sport as a fun but valid one.
  • Always look for ways to improve your skills and help your fellow skaters with theirs.
  • Treat coaches, refs, and volunteers as equals and with respect. They love derby as much as you and put just as much blood, sweat and tears into it.

Don’t:

  • Join for the glory of being a “derby skater”.
  • Put more emphasis on the after party than the actual game (you need to earn the after party). 
  • Get involved if you can’t commit your schedule to attend practices.
  • Push yourself beyond your limits physically or mentally (if you need a break, take one). 
  • Be afraid to stand up for yourself if you don’t agree with something the league is doing or saying (make your voice heard).
  • Invite friends or family to join as refs/coaches/volunteers if you think they are only in it to get a date (and don’t be afraid to call them out on it, no one wants creeps in derby).
  • Be afraid to get out there and be involved in one of the most awesome sports out there!!