Question 1

How is roller derby played?

Accepted Answer

Roller derby teams ‘bout’ one another five on five through a series of 2 minute ‘jams’. The ‘bout’ consists of two halves of 30 minutes each. For more info, watch this video:

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Question 2

What are the rules?

Accepted Answer

There are a TON of rules and penalties that are assessed when rules are broken. The referees use a series of hand signals to communicate to one another and players and the crowd what is going on. Players are tested on their knowledge of the rules through a written test before they are considered ‘bout’ ready. Find the rules here.

Question 3

What is the time commitment?

Accepted Answer

Gallatin Roller Derby currently practices two nights a week (Monday & Wednesday) and members are expected to attend at least one per week. The typical season runs from Janurary to Mid-September, with a summer break for part of July. All members are expected to be active in at least one committee of their choice.

Question 4

How much are dues?

Accepted Answer

Dues are $40 per month. Learn to Skate Boot Camp is $100. Drop in skaters from other leagues are $5 a night – must have own WFTDA insurance. If you want to come check out a practice off skates there is no charge.

Question 5

I want to be involved, but I’m a guy! What can I do?"

Accepted Answer

GRD welcomes males to fill skating referee positions and non-skating support positions. Referee positions may be skated on roller blades though most refs use the quad skates. If you have a sports background, you may also be interested in coaching! Contact us!

Question 6

I want to be involved, but I’m nonbinary/trans/intersex! What about me?"

Accepted Answer

An individual who identifies as a trans woman, intersex woman, and/or gender expansive may skate with our team if women’s flat track roller derby is the version and composition of roller derby with which they most closely identify.  ANYONE, regardless of gender, may volunteer or partcipate as an NSO or referee. 
 
For more information on our / WFTDA's gender policy, please go here. We do our best as a team to create an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive environment. If you have any questions or concerns on this topic, please contact us!

Question 7

I don’t know how to skate! Do I stand a chance?

Accepted Answer

Most of Gallatin Roller Derby’s current skaters started out that way! Not too many of us had put on skates since our little white high top Strawberry Shortcake skates when we were six! We are a very welcoming, encouraging group & love helping new skaters!

Question 8

I can’t play roller derby – I’m too short/tall/skinny/fluffy!

Accepted Answer

One of the great things about roller derby is it a sport that all shapes & sizes can play! Everyone can find their place on the team.

Question 9

Is roller derby a safe sport?

Accepted Answer

Roller derby is not ‘safe’ and not for the faint of heart. There’s a saying in derby that it’s not IF you get hurt, but WHEN you get hurt! It is a contact sport so expect the same sort of damage as you would in any sport where hitting is allowed.

Question 10

I’m thinking of coming to Fresh Meat Camp. What gear do I need?

Accepted Answer

Helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, mouth guard & quad skates. You will NOT be allowed to skate if you do not have ALL of your gear! Your pads need to be of good quality – the $15 Wally World knee, elbow & wrist guard package is NOT sufficient! The average ‘fresh meat’ skate package is $200-300 and includes pads and skates. With that in mind, we do have loaner gear available in the beginning-just bring a mouthguard.

GRD

FAQ

Frequently asked questions