Frequently Asked Questions

  • Roller derby is a sport played on roller skates (aka “quads”). Skaters race around a track and try to pass the opposing team while simultaneously blocking the other team’s jammer from passing. DMRD plays with two rulesets: WFTDA and short track.

  • Not all of our skaters knew how to skate when they started, either. We will start by teaching you basic skating skills, then derby skills.

  • The answer to this varies, depending on what you already have or your preferences. You will need to provide your own gear (helmet, mouthguard, wrist guards, elbow pads, knee pads, and derby quads), monthly dues after an initial trial period, and eventually annual roller derby insurance. If the cost of the sport is holding you back, please get in touch with us!

  • Roller derby is a full-contact sport. Falling and injuries happen, so we protect ourselves with gear, skill development, perform regular skills tests, and purchase WFTDA insurance.

  • While skating is the mass appeal of roller derby, there are essential non-skating roles on our team! We need volunteers, refs, and NSOs (non-skating officials). These roles do not pay dues because their work keeps us on the track. You sign up to volunteer with us anytime!

  • No, Ken. Only our refs have permission to be on roller blades. Derby players must be on roller skates, aka “quads”. Derby skates typically have a low heel and ankle-height boots for agility and speed.

  • DMRD is a flat-track derby team that is open to adults of all genders. We work hard to foster a team that is competitive, skilled, and collaborative. We value communication, even when it’s uncomfortable. We provide a space that is open to everyone, and we work hard to make sure it stays that way.

  • Skaters must be over 18 years old to skate or volunteer with us. (There is a local youth team for you youngsters!) We have no upper age limit because derby is for everyone!

    1. Check out our linktree and follow our socials.

    2. Check out the WFTDA Youtube channel to watch some roller derby.

    3. Email us at dmrd.letsroll@gmail.com with any questions or concerns. Our recruitment director, sMel, will answer your questions and help get you ready to roll!

  • If you used to skate with us (or any other team), we would be so excited to see you again!

  • Bootcamp is a great time to start with DMRD because you’ll have a cohort to learn alongside, as well as practice time specifically designed for you. However, we accept recruits year-round! We recommend reaching out to dmrd.letsroll@gmail.com for details.