FAQs

“I haven’t skated since I was 12. Can I still participate in the Rec-n-Rollerderby league?

Definitely! Texas Rollergirls and the Rec-n-Rollerderby are committed to training women of all abilities and skill levels to participate in Flat Track Derby. You will be taught many of the basic skills you will need in one of the Primer Sessions prior to joining the league for the regular session. However, new skaters are strongly encouraged to practice basic skating skills before joining Rec-n-Rollerderby, such as controlled starts and stops, crossovers on the corners, gliding on one skate, and skating at least 10 laps without stopping.

“What do I need to get started with the Rec-n-Rollerderby?”

A great attitude, a sense of humor, skates, and safety gear. All skaters are required to wear quad-style skates, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, a helmet, and a mouth guard. Again, for your safety and the timely progression of the lesson plans, new skaters are encouraged to practice basic skating skills and participate in a regular fitness routine before joining the Rec-n-Rollerderby.

“I don’t have any skating equipment. Do you rent gear?”

We are not able to rent gear. You may be able to borrow used gear at one of the orientations, or purchase gear from existing skaters who are upgrading.

“How much will it cost me to buy all the necessary equipment?”

Prices vary based on the vendor and also the quality of the equipment. Some online vendors sell “Rookie Packages” including skates and all the necessary safety gear. These start at about $200 for a very basic set of skates and all your gear. Attend the orientation before each session to learn all about the different styles and levels of gear.

“Will I get hurt?”

Flat Track Roller Derby is a full contact sport. You do run a risk of injury. Injuries range from bruises and strained muscles to broken bones and everything in between. In general, you are able to choose the level of intensity with which you want to participate. The Texas Rollergirls Recreational League trainers are highly skilled and safety is their first priority at all times. They will do their best to ensure that all skaters participating are safe to be on the track. Any skater who has not met basic safety requirements will not be allowed to participate in official scrimmages.

“Do I need to have insurance to participate?”

See the question above! YES!!! All members participating in the rec program are required to purchase a low cost, high deductible insurance policy administered through the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association.

“What if I can’t make it to all the practices?”

Life sometimes gets in the way of derby. Many skaters can only make it to one of the two practices a week due to scheduling conflicts. We encourage participants to attend as many practices as possible. The most important thing is that all skaters are safe, and the only way the trainers will know you are safe is by watching you at practice. Skaters who have missed an excessive number of practices, or who have not mastered basic safety skills, may not be allowed to participate in the official scrimmages.

“Is childcare provided?”

Child care is not provided. If you need to bring your kid/s to practice, please BYOS (bring your own sitter). We only rent the skate zone, so kids & their sitters have to remain in that area if they come to practice.

Children under 10 are not allowed at the rink unattended while mom skates.

“What do you do when you’re not skating?”

The women of the Rec-n-Rollerderby league definitely know how to have fun! Each season there is a designated Social Chair who organizes a variety of extracurricular activities to give us all a chance to hang out together off the track as well. Social events are usually planned and announced through the Rec League Yahoo group (members only).

In our effort to give back to the community, the Rec-n-Rollerderby league also coordinates philanthropic events.In the past, skaters have donated their time and skills to events such as It’s My Park! Day, Keep Austin Beautiful, and Race for the Cure.