What is Roller Derby?

Roller derby is a team sport played on roller skates.  Flat track roller derby is a fast-paced contact sport played on a track with five players on each side.  The objective is for one player, the "jammer," on each team to score points by passing opposing players, while the rest of the team blocks and assists them using legal contact.  Matches, called "bouts," consist of multiple "jams," which last up to two minutes.  Players wear protective gear and skate in a counter-clockwise direction, employing speed, strategy, and teamwork to outmaneuver their opponent.  The sport is known for its strong community and emphasis on inclusivity for all identities, genders, and skill levels.

Youth roller derby provides a multitude of benefits that promote fitness, confidence, and personal growth. The dynamic nature of the sport encourages physical activity, helping children build strength, coordination, and endurance. As they learn to skate and work as a team, they develop confidence in their abilities and foster friendships that can last a lifetime Additionally, roller derby teaches valuable life skills such as resilience, sportsmanship, and goal-setting making it a fantastic opportunity for holistic development.

How Can I Play Roller Derby?

Join us!  Almost every Sunday Los Anarchists Junior Derby has drop-ins and new and skate-curious kids participate in basic skating skills up to contact, depending on your skating and derby experience.  All youth from ages 5 to 18 are welcome to join us and check it out!  See our calendar for current schedule and location.

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Los Anarchists Junior Derby weekly practice schedule:

• Sunday

  • 9:30-11 AM - Anar-Kitties/Drop-Ins -- New skaters and beginners welcome!

  • 9:30 AM-12:30 PM - Recreational, LA Havoc, ​LA Revolt, Travel​​

• Tuesday

  • 5-7 PM - LA Havoc, LA Revolt, Travel​

• Thursday

  • 5-7 PM - LA Revolt, Travel​

• Saturday

  • 8 AM-12 PM - LA Havoc Prospects, ​LA Revolt, Travel

What About Equipment?

Roller derby is played on quad roller skates.  Roller blades are not appropriate for roller derby.  While any quad skate will work for beginners, roller derby players use flat heel low-rise boots, plates with adjustable toe stops, and urethane-covered wheels.  Figure-skating style roller skates will allow you to learn some of the basics.

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All Los Anarchists Junior Derby skaters must wear full protective gear to skate with us. This includes pads, helmet and mouth guard.

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The full equipment list for Los Anarchists Junior Derby skaters:

• Skates

• Knee pads

• Elbow pads

• Wrist guards

• Mouth guard

• Helmet

• Water bottle

• Black and white scrimmage shirts

• Appropriate athletic bottoms such as shorts, capris, or sport leggings

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Don't have the equipment?  Don't worry!

Los Anarchists Junior Derby has loaner skates, pads, and helmets available for use at our events on a first-come, first-served basis.  We also have basic mouth guards for sale on site.

Where is Los Anarchists Junior Derby?

Los Anarchists Junior Derby members are from all over the greater Los Angeles area, Bakersfield, and the Inland Empire.  We practice at California National Guard armory locations in Burbank and Glendale.  Make sure to check the calendar for specific location information.