Introduction to Roller Derby
Most roller derby leagues require skaters to be at least 18 or 21 years old. The average age of players is 31. There are Junior Roller Derby leagues for kids as young as 8 years old. Roller derby requires determination and grit to master. League policies, laws, and insurance coverage influence age limits. Players generally need to be over 18 and under 60 years old. The average age range is mid 20s to mid 30s.
Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA)
The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association governs the international sport of women’s flat track roller derby for over 450 leagues. Roller derby is a contact team sport needing speed, strategy and athleticism. Rules explicitly forbid inline skates. Though risky, rule-based play and gear minimize injury. Junior programs develop skills for full contact gameplay.
Roller Derby Overview
Roller derby started in 1935 promoted by Leo Seltzer. It is primarily played by women with growing men’s and junior participation. Roller derby uses alter egos and irreverent names for fun. Game action and competition is real, though theatrical. USA has the most leagues, especially Wyoming. Derby may gain future Olympic consideration.
Age Requirements for Roller Derby
How old can you be to play roller derby? The age for starting to play roller derby varies depending on the organization and area. Generally, the minimum age needed to join a roller derby team is 8-years-old. However, certain leagues may allow younger children to become involved in the sport through specific programs designed to introduce them to the sport at a younger age.
Can Anyone Play Roller Derby?
Roller derby is a physically demanding, full-contact sport played on roller skates. Most leagues require skaters to be at least 18 years old due to insurance requirements, though junior programs exist for kids as young as 8. The average player age is 31. League policies, laws, and insurance influence age limits. Players need determination and grit to master skills like blocking and jamming.
Gameplay Details
A game is played between two teams of up to 15 players on a flat, oval track. Teams nominate a jammer and four blockers to skate counter-clockwise during 2-minute jams. The jammer tries to get past the opposing team’s blockers to score points. Basic skating skill, endurance, speed, and strategic thinking are essential to be successful. Many leagues offer beginner programs to develop these abilities. Attending bouts connects new players with the local roller derby community.
Junior Roller Derby Programs
For 9-11 year olds, once skills tests are passed and maturity demonstrated, scrimmages with similarly sized opponents can begin. Building skills prepares players for full contact gameplay. The first junior team may be delayed until enough skaters develop abilities. Safety remains the priority while meeting needs and abilities of all ages.