Because I played roller derby for two years, and still coach with a local league, I must answer this question at least once a week: Is roller derby real?
Yes! Modern women's flat track and bank-track leagues play unstaged, competitive roller derby. Besides the cheeky names and the fact that the girls are on skates, the sport bears very little resemblance to the wacky, choreographed antics of 70's derby.
To play roller derby requires a high level of athleticism, particularly as regards balance and endurance. A player must be able to play both offense and defense simultaneously, helping her team's jammer (point-scorer) to get through the pack of girls, while stopping the other team's jammer.
Modern derby leagues also require a very high level of commitment as leagues are DIY, run as an independent business with the assistance of all league members. Practices are held anywhere from 2 to 5 times per week, and players are also expected to participate in fundraisers, promo events, etc.
So, yes, it is a real sport that requires commitment and athleticism. For this reason, it is also an incredible sport to watch. To locate the league nearest you, visit:
www.wftda.com
