FAQs

“When will the rec league start skating again?”

We hope to resume skating in late August or early September. Never fear, Rec-n-Rollerderby will not die. We just need a second to take a breath and reorganize the practices. Please stay tuned….

“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. See our gear page for recommendations on what to buy.

“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!!! It is strongly recommended that all women participating in the Texas Rollergirls Recreational League carry private insurance. All members participating in the league are required to purchase a mandatory policy through WFTDA for $50. This is a very minimal policy that is only meant to offer catastrophic coverage.

“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?”

This is the beauty of starting out as a “mom’s league”!! Yes, we are able to provide low cost childcare to women participating in weekly practices. Childcare is provided for most Wednesday practices and by demand for Sunday practices. Prices vary but are about $3-5 per child per practice.

“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.