HOW THE GAME IS PLAYED
THE GAME
Roller Derby is a unique sport in that both offense and defense
are played at the same time. Two teams of 14 players compete in plays called "Jams" that can last up to two minutes. The Jam is a race where Jammers can score points by passing opposing players. Teams each field 5 players on the track during each
Jam- 4 Blockers and one Jammer, who is the point scorer for the team. Both teams are able to earn points during the Jam.
THE PLAYERS
JAMMER
Jammers wear stars on their helmet and score the points for their team by passing blockers as they speed around the track and lap the pack. Both Jammers can score simultaneously, earning points for each opposing blocker they lap.
PIVOT
The Pivot is a Blocker who wears a striped helmet cover. The Jammer can "pass the star" helmet cover to the Pivot who then becomes the active Jammer and takes over scoring points for the team in the Jam.
BLOCKERS
Blockers play both defense and offense a the same time. The Blockers try to stop the opposing Jammer from getting through the pack of Blockers and scoring points while also learning the way for their Jammer to get through the Pack.
THE PACK
The Blockers from both teams must stay together in a group called "The Pack." The Pack is the largest group of skaters containing members of both teams skating in proximity (within 10 feet) of each skater. Skaters can only block when they are within the 'engagement zone' which is 20 feet in front of and behind the pack.
THE JAM
JAM START
The Jam starts with a single whistle blow and the players begin skating around the track. Blockers immediately engage and try to prevent the opposing Jammer from passing through the pack while also trying to clear a path for their own Jammer.
FIRST PASS AND LEAD JAMMER
No points are scored during the Jammer's first pass through the Pack. The first Jammer to break out of the Pack on the first pass is the "Lead Jammer" for the remainder of the Jam. Being Lead Jammer is a great advantage because it allows the Jammer to strategically end the Jam before two minutes elapse by tapping her hands on her hips.
SCORING PASS
After the initial pass, a Jammer scores one point for each opposing Blocker she passes legally and in bounds each time she passes through the pack. The Blockers try to prevent the opposing Jammer from passing by both positioning themselves in front of her and by actively hitting her. After the Jammer completes a pass, the Jam Referee will hold up the number of points scored.
CALLING OFF THE JAM
The end of the Jam is signaled by four short whistle blows after two minutes elapse if the Lead Jammer has not called the Jam off sooner. The Lead Jammer will often strategically end the Jam before two minutes elapse to prevent the opposing team from scoring points.
ROLLER DERBY FAQ's
What is the WFTDA?
The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) is the international governing body of women’s flat track roller derby representing more than 450 member and apprentice leagues on 6 continents. The mission of the WFTDA is to govern and promote the sport of flat track roller derby and revolutionize the role of women in sports through the collective voice of its member leagues around the world. The WFTDA sets the international standards for rankings, rules, and competition each year and provides guidance and resources to the sport of flat track derby.
What is Flat Track Roller Derby?
Flat track roller derby is a fast-paced contact team sport that requires speed, strategy, and athleticism. The flat track version of the sport evolved in 2001, and has quickly grown to encompass more than 400 leagues worldwide. This is in large part due to the ease of setting up a flat track—it can be done on any flat surface that is suitable for skating, such as skating rinks, basketball courts, parking lots, and even airplane hangars.
Why is it called a “Bout?”
The terminology “bout” comes from boxing, because a derby match is a fight to the end.
What’s up with all the roller derby names?
Skaters are “normal” during the day. We work, we’re moms, students, etc. Roller derby is our escape from day-to-day life and our opportunity to embrace a tougher, edgier side of ourselves. When you step into the rink, your derby alter ego takes over.
What equipment is required to play roller derby?
A helmet, mouth guard, wrist guards, elbow pads, knee pads, and a pair of quad “speed style” roller skates is required to play roller derby.
Is there an age requirement to play roller derby?
Our league requires you to be at least 18 years old to play roller derby. Some leagues are affiliated with junior roller derby leagues, which allows girls as young as 6 to get involved.
Are the bouts kid friendly?
Absolutely. We strive to put on family-friendly events. We offer free admission to kids 10 and under with a paid adult and often have kid activities at our bouts. We love to see fans of all ages cheering us on.
Can you play in roller blades?
No. Roller Derby is played on quad skates. Quad skates enable the players to be agile on the track and allow for more control and stability. But you can be a referee with roller blades.
Can I play roller derby?
Yes. We teach you how to skate and the rules of Roller Derby no matter your experience. Contact us for more information and to find out when our next Fresh Rollers Training Camp will be held.
Can I be a referee?
We are always looking for referees, NSO’s, and other volunteers to be a part of our amazing league. See our
JOIN US page for more details.
Where can I watch roller derby?
Our home games are played at the Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Expressway in Monroe, Louisiana. See our schedule here.
Do you get paid to play roller derby?
We don’t. We are a 100% volunteer league and in fact, pay to play. We pay monthly dues, annual WFTDA insurance and for our personal skates, gear and travel.
Where can I purchase tickets?
You can purchase bout tickets for $12 from any skater or online through Eventbrite. Tickets are available at the door for $15 the day of the bout. Kids 10 and under are free. Click here for more information.
