Spring Break Swarm 2023 Photo Credits: Drew Wiedemann
Common Questions
Can a new skater try out a practice before registering?
Yes! You are welcome to come to a practice and try roller derby. We accept new skaters every few months - see our new skater program. Your skater can borrow the necessary pads and skates for that practice from RJR. We may ask that the skater's parents sign a waiver. If you do not have insurance, your skater can be covered during practice for a nominal fee.
IS Roller Derby like 'Whip It' or other Movies?
Sort of, but the game we play is built around player safety. Roller derby is a contact sport. We play on a flat track with a stricter ruleset. You cannot throw punches, hit with your elbow, or trip other skaters. Drop kicks - yeah, no. Hip checks are fine, though!
We start with a non-contact version of the sport, and work up to "full contact" roller derby based on a skaters skills and comfort. Skaters are assessed for specific skills on skates, and the ability to give and receive contact. We want all of our skaters to enjoy the game, and to be safe while doing so.
We start with a non-contact version of the sport, and work up to "full contact" roller derby based on a skaters skills and comfort. Skaters are assessed for specific skills on skates, and the ability to give and receive contact. We want all of our skaters to enjoy the game, and to be safe while doing so.
How do I stay informed?
RJR communicates via TeamSnap, a parent website, email and Facebook. Once you have registered, you will be added to the RJR email list, Facebook parents group, and Teamsnap.
What is your Attendance Policy?
Many of our skaters have interests beyond roller derby. We love it when skaters can attend all our practices, but there is no requirement to participate, except for our travel team. We understand there are times your skater must be absent or needs a break. Practice is the best way to improve and level up, but it's a marathon and not a sprint.
Is there a dress code?
We recommend that your skater wear appropriate attire for athletics. Most skaters wear t-shirts or tank tops, and shorts or leggings. "Full size" socks may prevent skates from rubbing on the ankle.
Skaters should not have jewelry, headphones, or anything that can get snagged while skating. All skaters must have all their safety gear on and visible whenever they are wearing their skates at our practices.
Skaters should not have jewelry, headphones, or anything that can get snagged while skating. All skaters must have all their safety gear on and visible whenever they are wearing their skates at our practices.
What happens if a skater forgets a piece of gear?
A skater who is not fully geared up can not skate. The league does have some gear that can be borrowed.
Can skaters wear jewelry?
No jewelry is allowed as it poses a safety threat to the person wearing it and anyone else on the floor. Please remove all jewelry before arriving at practice or bouts. Ear buds are also not permitted.
Can I chew gum or have things have in my mouth while skating?
No gum, candy, food or drink (except water) is allowed during practice.
Where can my skater get additional practice or training?
We encourage skaters to attend open skate sessions at any of the local skate rinks or find outdoor spaces they can practice. In the past, skaters have organized trail skates or meetups at local skating places, like Marsh Creek park.
Do skaters get to choose a skater name?
Yes! And a number too. Skaters may choose a name on their own or with the help of their coach. Please ask your child to be very thoughtful about choosing their name. At the junior level, names may not contain profanities or explicit words or puns. Numbers must follow the format allowed by the JRDA/WFTDA rule set and must be unique versus our current roster. We will not be registering names nationally. Please submit all names/numbers to your coach for approval.