Roller Derby Basics

Never seen a roller derby game played before? Don’t worry! Check out the basics to learn what’s going on when we get on the track. Our awesome announcers will also keep you in the know!

Two 15-skater teams play two 30-minute periods. Each period consists of multiple jams that can last up to 2 minutes.

Each team fields 4 blockers (one called a pivot who wears a stripe on their helmet) and 1 jammer (who wears a star on their helmet). Blockers start anywhere between the jammer line and the pivot line (30 feet away). Jammers start behind the jammer line, and play starts with a single whistle blast.

First Pass
During the first pass, the first jammer to pass all skaters becomes the Lead Jammer. Lead Jammer status is signaled by the officials blowing two short whistle blasts and pointing at the Lead Jammer.

Second Pass
In subsequent passes, jammers earn 1 point for each opposing player they pass legally. The opposing blockers will try to stop the jammer while helping their own jammer through the pack.

Rules
Players can legally block opponents with their hips, rear, and shoulders. It is illegal to block to the back, trip other players, elbow other players, or back-talk officials. If a player commits an illegal action, they will receive a 30-second penalty.