Some frequently asked questions by new skaters …
What should I bring to practice?
Wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle. You can borrow any of the needed gear from us. We will loan you all the gear you would need (helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, and of course, quad skates). We will also give you a mouth guard if you do not already have one. If you own any of the above gear, feel free to bring it to practice.
What if I have never skated before?
All practices are open for new skaters at all skill levels, which means that we will happily teach you even if you have never strapped wheels to your feet in your entire life.
What will my first practice look like?
When you first arrive, we will have you fill out some paperwork. We will help fit you for gear and then teach you how to skate, fall, and stop safely.
What if I don’t want to get hit?
In roller derby “hitting” = “contact”. You can skate with us indefinitely and never do contact if you prefer. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved without this aspect of the sport.
We have league member skaters who never participate in contact drills. We welcome anyone who wants to join us, even if it is just to get some exercise in.
When can I come to practice?
Check out our calendar and drop in at any open practice! Be sure to click on the individual calendar events for location details!
What is roller derby?
Roller derby is a fast-paced, full-contact sport played on quad roller skates. Check out the following video for a quick breakdown of the basics of the game!
Where is practice normally held? Is there parking?
The Arena at the Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI 53713. Free parking is available to the left of the Arena Building. Sometimes our practice location changes. Please check our calendar for an accurate practice location.
All Genders? What does that mean?
Roller derby is not just for women! We welcome all people regardless of their gender expression and pride ourselves on our diverse team.
I am out of shape. Do I need to work out before I come to practice?
Nope! Starting consistent roller derby practice is a great way to get in shape. We welcome all levels of athleticism. All bodies are derby bodies!
How much does it cost?
The first 30 days are free, then we request that you pay membership dues, which are $40 a month. If you are unable to pay for any reason, you can talk to a board member for reduced fees.
There is no cost for dropping into a practice, but donations are always welcome! Talk to a team member about how you can donate.
What if I fall?
Everyone falls down, even the most experienced skaters – it’s all a part of the game! We will teach you the proper way to fall so you stay as safe as possible!
This seems like a big commitment, what if I can’t come to every practice?
There is no pressure to commit to anything! You are welcome at practice whenever you are able to make it, perfect attendance is not required. Take everything one step (or roll) at a time. Come as you see fit – your first 30 days are free!
Rollerblades vs roller skates?
Rollerblades (pictured left) have multiple wheels in one row on each shoe.
Roller skates (pictured right) have four wheels – two in front and two in back. These are the skates we use in roller derby!
I am an experienced skater & want to drop in – how can I do that?
Check out our calendar and drop in at any practice (open or closed). Drop in fees are $5 per practice. If you drop in to 3 or more practices per month, we ask you pay membership dues. Please see our dues page for more information.
Is Wisconsin United Roller Derby a MRDA team?
Yes! Our league is a member of MRDA, the Mens Roller Derby Association.
What if I decide derby isn’t for me? Can I still be involved?
100% yes! We are always looking for volunteers, referees, and non-skating officials. Regardless of whether or not you want to stay on or off skates, we can find something for you! Everyone is welcome at WURD!
Can I bring my kids?
You must be 18 years or older to skate in our league, but observers are welcome at practice.
Do you ever skate outside?
Yes we do! Please reach out to the league via email (Recruitment@wisconsinunitedrollerderby.com) before dropping in on a trail skate. You can check for trail skates on the calendar.
When can I see your league play?
Keep an eye on our calendar and social media for upcoming bouts!
Can I come to practice without skates on?
Yes! We have a number of members who do not skate. They assist with coaching, running practice, and volunteer as non-skating officials. Sometimes they don sweatbands and run alongside us as we do our drills.
If schooling the team or working out off-skates sounds fun to you, you’re absolutely welcome to join a practice!
Where can I reach out if I have more questions?
Please reach out on any of our social medias (Instagram or Facebook) or email us recruitment@wisconsinUnitedrollerderby.com
Intro to Roller Derby!
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