Join Our League
Never skated before? You're not alone.
Many of our skaters started exactly where you are now: no roller derby experience, no gear, and plenty of questions.
Our league is made up of people from all walks of life, and we welcome skaters of all experience levels. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself, stay active, make new friends, or try something completely outside your comfort zone, you'll find a supportive community ready to help you learn and grow.
Have questions? Check out our FAQ below. If you're curious about roller derby, fill out the interest form and learn more about getting started.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Fill out the form by selecting the “I Want To Join!” button above to sign up for our Skater Training Program or to simply learn more information about other opportunities in our league. One of our New Skater Coaches will reach out with info about recruitment and practice schedule. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, or sign up for our email newsletter to stay updated on upcoming events.
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SCRD is an adult league, and all participants must be at least 18 years old. While we do not offer a junior roller derby program at this time, we welcome adults of all ages who are interested in learning the sport.
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Monthly dues for new skaters are $2o, charged on the first of the month. Once you graduate the Skater Training Program and become a bout-eligible skater, monthly dues increase to $40.
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Not at all! SCRD offers a training program where we teach you all the skating skills you need to know to start playing roller derby.
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No! New skaters are not required to have their own skates or gear to get started. We have a loaner gear program that can help you get rolling while you decide if roller derby is right for you. Because our inventory is limited, we may not have every size available at all times, but we'll do our best to find equipment that works for you and help guide you through your next steps.
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Tier 1: Glitter Skaters
Designed for those who are brand new to quad skating or have limited skating experience. You'll learn foundational skills such as falling safely, stopping, skating backwards, and overall skating control.Tier 2: Purple Skaters
Designed for skaters with previous skating experience or those who have completed Glitter training. You'll begin learning roller derby-specific skills such as blocking, hitting, counter-hitting, and working with a wall.Each tier typically lasts about six weeks and includes two practices per week. Everyone learns at a different pace, and our coaches work closely with skaters to ensure they are comfortable and confident before moving on.
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That's completely normal. Everyone learns at a different pace, and some skaters may repeat portions of training before advancing. Our goal is to help every skater build confidence and develop the skills they need to be successful.
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As skaters progress, they move through different skill levels based on skating ability, derby knowledge, gameplay awareness, and overall readiness. Advancement is determined through evaluations by our coaching staff and is designed to help skaters develop safely and successfully.
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SCRD follows the Womens’ Flat Track Roller Derby Association (WFTDA) statement regarding gender. 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 with a WFTDA team. At the time of writing, the WFTDA considers the following to be examples of Marginalized Genders:
Women (the WFTDA uses women to refer to all women, including trans, cis, intersex, and gender-expansive women).
Individuals with gender identities belonging to the trans umbrella.
Those who are genderqueer, agender, genderfluid, and/or non-binary regardless of their presentation or the gender they have been assigned at birth.
Individuals with culturally specific genders such as Two-Spirit.
Intersex individuals.
Any combination of the above (or other) Marginalized Genders.
Participation as a volunteer or referee is open to individuals of all genders.
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SCRD is typically active January through October of each year.
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We typically play several games throughout the year, with most of our schedule consisting of travel games against other leagues across Florida. We also host home games in Lakeland throughout the season. The exact number of games varies from year to year, and roster placement depends on skater eligibility, skill level, and the needs of each game.
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After successfully completing Purple training, you'll advance to Silver status and become bout eligible. At that point, you'll be added to the roster pool and may be considered for game placement. Becoming bout eligible does not guarantee placement in every game, as roster selections depend on attendance, skill level, position needs, and the requirements of each matchup.
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To be eligible for game placement, skaters must:
Be current on league dues
Maintain at least 60% practice attendance
Be Silver level bout eligible or higher
Be in good standing with the league
Coaches also consider skating skills, derby knowledge, position needs, and the level of competition when selecting game rosters.
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Our practice locations vary throughout the week based on facility availability and training needs.
Monday
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Skateworld Lakeland
911 N Lake Parker Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801
Wednesday
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Southwest Middle School
2815 Eden Pkwy, Lakeland, FL 33803
Saturday
8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Polk Athletic Complex (PAC)
3395 W Memorial Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33815
Practice schedules and locations are communicated to league members and prospective recruits. If you're interested in attending a recruit night or visiting a practice, please fill out our interest form and we'll provide the most up-to-date information.
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Not at all! Roller derby wouldn't happen without officials, volunteers, photographers, announcers, and other supporters. If skating isn't your thing, there are still plenty of ways to get involved.
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Feel free to email us at swancityrollers@gmail.com, or via our social media DMs.