Debuting in Chicago in 1935, the Roller Derby started as a simple race between two-person skating teams. By the late 1930s, organizers allowed physical contact between skaters, and the core of the sport was formed. Around 2001, roller derby reemerged as a true sport in Austin, TX. Today there are over 1200 leagues world wide.
Debuting in Chicago in 1935, the Roller Derby started as a simple race between two-person skating teams. By the late 1930s, organizers allowed physical contact between skaters, and the core of the sport was formed.
Around 2001, roller derby reemerged as a true sport in Austin, TX. Today there are over 1200 leagues world wide.
The Game
In WFTDA matches, play is comprised of five members from each league engaged in a race around a flat circuit track. Individual races are part of the larger bout known as jams. Players will either be a jammer, blocker, or pivot.
The jammer scores points by passing opposing team members. One point is scored for every opposing blocker she passes legally. She can continue to lap the pack for additional scoring passes for the duration of the jam.
The blockers play both offense and defense by assisting their jammer in her race to the front while blocking the opposing jammer.
The pivot blocker serves as the leader of the pack in a jam. She generally plays at the front of the pack and is often the last line of defense when stopping opposing jammer from breaking away and moving forward.
What's in a Name?
Getting one's derby name is a rite of passage. It says "you've arrived".
Names are as unique as finger prints. A central database tracks registered derby names so that no two are alike.
Names often reflect the skater's unique personalities, traits, or other interests. BeBe Tango of WKRR chose BeBe after being influenced by BeBe Daniels, a silent-movie actress and one of the first pin-up models. Tango equates the nuances and moves of the roller derby to the popular dance.
Do You Have What it Takes?
The WKRR are always recruiting new league and Junior League members. And men, that includes you too! Coaches and referees are needed as the league grows, and you can pick a cool name as well. For more information, visit wkrockinrollers.com.
