BIRMINGHAM
ROLLER DERBY
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
Welcoming new members and building a bigger league with more opportunities for development are key motivations for us. We’re proud to be inclusive and open to people of all genders, identities, races, abilities, body types and experience levels. If you’re curious about roller derby, we’d love to meet you.
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To become a member of Birmingham Roller Derby, you must be over 18 years old.
Birmingham Roller Derby has a gender-inclusive policy that welcomes individuals of all gender identities to join the league.
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We train twice a week at sports halls in and around Birmingham. This includes one midweek evening practice (with the location varying week to week) and one weekend training session at Thorns Collegiate Academy, DY5 2NU. We run a rolling new skater intake every Saturday so there's no need to wait to learn to skate - just get in touch to book on!
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All genders are welcome learn to skate through the Academy, complete their minimum skills and take part in non-contact drills.
As we are affiliated with WFTDA, participation as a full contact skater is subject to the Womens Flat Track Roller Derby Gender Policy which states;
"Any individual of a Marginalized Gender, regardless of presentation or the gender they were assigned at birth, is welcomed and encouraged to participate in the WFTDA in any capacity, including skating on a WFTDA charter."​
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Not keen on skating? You can still be part of the action.
Birmingham Roller Derby relies on officials, volunteers, photographers, announcers and other behind-the-scenes heroes to make our games happen.
All genders are welcome to participate as Skating Officials, Non-Skating Officials, or Volunteers.
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Find out more about official and volunteer roles here.
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As one of the most diverse leagues in the country, we are committed to uplifting the voices of marginalized groups. We recognise there is always more we can do and we actively support the WFTDA's ART Project which aims to create safer, more collaborative spaces for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) communities.​
WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON MY FIRST SESSION?
Before your first session
Once you’ve let us know you’d like to come along, we’ll ask you to fill out a waiver. This just helps us understand any health conditions or previous injuries, and it’s also where you can let us know if you’d like to borrow kit.
We can provide everything you need to get started, including quad skates, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards and a helmet - so don’t worry if you don’t have your own yet.
After that, we’ll send you a follow-up email with all the details for your upcoming session. Because our venues vary depending on availability, sessions can take place at different locations and on different days, so it’s always worth double checking the info. For the session itself, just wear comfy sportswear you can move in and bring a drink along with you.
During your first session
You’ll be looked after by our friendly team of coaches, who will help you get kitted up and settled in. Your first session will be with other Academy skaters, so everyone is learning together.
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We’ll start with a gentle warm-up on skates, which usually includes skating around and some light stretches to get everything moving. If getting on skates straight away feels a bit daunting, that’s totally okay - there’s an off-skates warm-up option to help you ease into things.
You’ll also get a skills booklet to keep. There are a number of skills you’ll work towards as part of learning roller derby, like falling safely, stopping, changing direction, and eventually learning how to engage in contact safely. Your coaches will check in on your progress each session and sign off skills as you master them. If you’re finding something tricky or just want a bit of extra reassurance, let a coach know - they’re always happy to help. Once you’re ready to take part in contact drills, you’ll need to get yourself a mouthguard.
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We’ll finish the session with some stretches to help look after muscles that may have been used in new ways.
After your first session
After your first go, we’ll send you another email with details about upcoming sessions, costs, and a bit more info about the league.
If you decide you’d like to keep skating with us (we hope you do!), you’ll be added to our Academy Skaters group. It’s a great place to ask questions about kit, organise lifts to training, get help with skills, and connect with other skaters who are at the same stage as you.
FAQS FOR FIRST-TIMERS
Do I need to be fit to start?
Not at all. Roller derby fitness builds over time, and everyone starts somewhere. You’ll be encouraged to work at your own level, and taking breaks is completely fine.
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What if I’ve never skated before?
That’s really common! Many of our members started from zero. Our Academy programme teaches you step by step, starting with simply standing and moving safely on skates.
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Do I need my own skates and kit?
We have a variety of skates and protective equipment available to hire, if you require this please let us know in advance to avoid disappointment on the day!
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What if I fall over?
You probably will - and that’s okay! We actually teach you how to fall safely as one of the first skills. Falling is a normal part of learning, and everyone in the room has been through it.
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I’m nervous about coming on my own.
Most people do attend their first session on their own. Our league is used to welcoming new folks, and we make an effort to introduce you to others so you’re not standing on your own wondering what to do.
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What should I wear and bring?
Comfy workout clothes you can move and get a bit warm in - leggings, shorts, tracksuit bottoms, long or short sleeve t-shirts, vests. Bring yourself and a drink.
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Do I have to talk to loads of people?
Only as much as you feel comfortable. We’re a friendly bunch, but there’s no pressure to be super social straight away.
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What if I try it and it’s not for me?
That’s completely okay. There’s no obligation to continue. We’re just glad you gave it a go!
BRD Academy Skater Nat says "Being a rookie is so much fun! There’s always something new to learn and everyone in the league is always happy to teach you all the little tips and tricks that worked for them. It’s been great learning something completely new and really rewarding as you see little bits of progress every single session."