WHAT IS ROLLER DERBY?
Roller Derby is a full contact sport played on quad roller skates. It is becoming one of the nation’s fastest growing sports with over 1,500 leagues, not only in the U.S., but in the WORLD. It was revamped by the eclectic city of Austin, TX at the beginning of the new millennium. It starts off as a hobby for some and quickly becomes a lifestyle for most.
It’s based on a point scoring system, is played on an oval shaped, flat track and involves both offense and defense played simultaneously. If you have a question about the rules while watching a game, check your program for a basic rundown or ask a neighbor sitting next to you. They may just be a veteran of the sport.
WHERE CAN I SEE THE DALLAS DERBY DEVILS PLAY?
Our games are played at NYTEX SPORTS CENTRE 8851 Ice House Dr. North Richland Hills, TX 76180. Our venue is subject to change so make sure you check back often.
WHERE DO I PURCHASE TICKETS TO A GAME?
The easiest way is to purchase them online at derbydevils.com for $12. (supervised kids under 10 get in FREE). You can also purchase them from a Dallas Derby Devils' League Member for a discounted price. There are tickets to purchase at the door, but it is best to get them in advance so that you don’t risk missing it due to the event selling out. This happens a lot, so it’s best to be prepared ahead of time.
IS IT OK FOR KIDS?
Of course it is and it is encouraged! Roller Derby is a great family fun experience. As we already mentioned, supervised kids under 10 get in free….FREE! For safety reasons, we advise that you not leave your young children unattended. Kids love roller derby and who knows, they may become a future Dallas Derby Devil!
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Dress comfortably or dress up. It’s up to you. We encourage you to be yourself–or someone else! Do you have a blue wig and not a place to wear it? Put it on and you could be the Wrecking Crew’s newest #1 fan! A lot of fans wear their favorite team’s t-shirt or team colors. If you don’t have a shirt for the team you like, visit the merchandise booth so you can really show off your team spirit! Or make your own shirt and show off your creativity.
WHAT IF AFTER SEEING A GAME YOU ARE THINKING, “HEY I COULD DO THAT!?”
That’s actually how most girls get into the sport. Dallas Derby Devils hold tryouts at different times throughout the year. We usually hold our annual tryout right after Championships. Keep up with us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on all our events and tryout information.
WHAT IF AFTER SEEING A BOUT YOU ARE THINKING, “I DON’T KNOW IF I COULD GET OUT THERE AND SKATE BUT I WOULD LOVE TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER FOR THE LEAGUE?”
DDD is always accepting volunteer help. There are many areas to help from Security, Game Production, Referee Help and even singing the National Anthem. Contact production@derbydevils.com about production opportunities and Referees@derbydevils.com for officiating opportunities.
FLOOR SEATING VS. BLEACHER SEATING:
First off, it is best to arrive early so that you can get the best seat! VIP Season ticket holders get first dibs on seating, so you might want to look into purchasing one of those if you plan on becoming a Die Hard Derby Fan. If you plan on sitting trackside, bring a comfortable lawn chair. Beware; sitting this close to the track may cause you to get a derby skater flying into your space. Please be respectful to the skater and allow her to get back on the track as she probably needs to be helping her team win. Also, for safety reasons, its best that children under 18 not sit right next to the track. Trackside seating is best if you really want to get into the game and see the action up close.
There is also bleacher seating available. This is best for a first time derby goer as you can see the whole track in front of you. Derby is a fast paced sport and in the bleachers you might be able to see more of what is going on.
HOW CAN I SHOW MY SUPPORT FOR MY FAVORITE SKATER OR FAVORITE TEAM?
Make a sign or wear team colors! Believe me, all skaters love to look out into the crowd and see signs that show support for their team. You may just get a high five from one of the team members!
WHAT IF I WANT AN AUTOGRAPH FROM A SKATER?
Simply ask! If you see a skater who you would love to meet, just go up to her and ask. She would be honored to sign your program for you. We aren’t as mean off the track as we are ON the track. Bring your camera and you might get a great photo and make long lasting memories.
IS THERE FOOD/ALCOHOL SERVED?
Yes. Zuroma’s, one of our sponsors, have bartenders serving beer and mixed drinks. There is food served at the concession stand in the lobby, and Zuroma’s (located on the other side of the complex) serves awesomely tasty pizzas that you can eat while watching the game.
CAN I SPONSOR THE DALLAS DERBY DEVILS?
Of course! We are always looking for sponsors. If you have an up and coming local business, a roller derby game is a great way to get the word out. With over 100 girls in our league, there’s a built in customer base. There are many different levels of sponsorship with great incentives! You can even sponsor individual skaters. Contact sponsorship@derbydevils.com for more information!
HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?
One game consists of two 30 minute periods with a halftime break between 10-20 minutes. Immediately following the bout is an after party at Zuroma’s.
Our annual Clover Cup Tournament starts on Friday, lasts all day Saturday and doesn’t end until Sunday afternoon.
AND….THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION OF ALL…..IS IT FAKE?
Absolutely not!!! All of the teams spend time practicing their strategies to see what will get them to the top. We all train very hard on and off skates. It is in no way predetermined or scripted. Every point and hard hit is as genuine as it can be and the competition gets pretty fierce at times. The referees are there to enforce penalties such as elbowing, using forearms, or tripping (all of which are huge no no’s in Derby). Roller Derby is a legitimate sport. We’ve taken the “1970’s” spectacle and turned it into a real battle of smashing into each other to “get our jammer through.”
Who will have the most points scored and become the winners? You have to come to a bout to find out. It is a huge counterculture experience and should definitely be on your List of Things to Do this summer!