Roller Derby: A Team Sport Rich in Human Values

Roller derby is a team and contact sport played on a track called a rink. The goal of the game is for one of the players, called the Jammer, to successfully pass the opposing players within a given time period (called a Jam) without being knocked down or forced out of bounds. More than just a sport, roller derby is a philosophy centered around feminism, inclusivity, and the diversity of genders and sexual orientations.

Who invented Roller Derby?

Roller derby emerged in Chicago in 1935, driven by the feminist movement. At a time when sports were often still reserved for men, roller derby broke the mold. Women dared to assert themselves in a sport that is both spectacular and no-nonsense.

After falling into obscurity for a while, roller derby was revived in the early 2000s and then quickly spread throughout Europe. Although initially played exclusively by women, roller derby is now a multi-gender sport.

What is the purpose of roller derby?

Roller derby combines contact, agility, speed, and strategy. Two teams of five players compete on the rink. Each team consists of a jammer, a pivot, and three blockers. The basic principle is for the jammer to pass the players of the opposing team, who, in turn, do everything they can to block the jammer's path. The rules are quite complex (several dozen pages) and allow for a significant emphasis on game strategy. Each match is overseen by an "army" of referees (more numerous than the players), called "Refs" or "zebras.

What Equipment is Needed to Practice Roller Derby?

Roller derby requires very specific gear, starting with quad roller skates. These skates are typically low-cut and without a heel to allow for greater ankle flexibility. The shoes are reinforced to withstand repeated friction and falls. The wheels, which have a diameter of 59 to 62mm, are wide and hard, with a square lip profile to maximize grip on the floor. Since falls are frequent, a full set of protective gear is necessary: Helmet (with or without a face shield), knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, and a mouthguard.

Where to Play Roller Derby?

You can find teams (called "leagues") all over France, Europe, and the USA: Grenoble, Lyon, Rennes, Orléans, Ajaccio, Aubenas, Marseille, Valence, Toulouse, Chambéry, Voiron, etc. Refer to our article "Roller Derby Club Directory" to discover teams near you.

Most of the french roller derby teams are affiliated with the FFRS (French Federation of Roller and Skateboarding).