FAQ

                                                                                              Frequently Asked Questions

I'm new to derby but really want to play. How do I get started?
Even if you have no experience we will teach you how to skate, fall, block, and other skills required to play derby safely. We have skates and protective gear to loan out, but skaters will need to supply their own mouth guard.

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When and where are practices?

Currently we practice on Mondays from 6:30pm to 8:30pm and Thursdays from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Depending on the our skaters availability this may change in the future. We practice in town by the university. Contact us for additional details!
 

What equipment do I need to play?
You will need a pair of quad roller skates. Roller blades are not allowed for practice and please feel free to contact us before purchasing anything so we can give good beginner recommendations. Protective gear include: helmet, mouth guard, elbow pads, knee pads, and wrist guards. We do have loaner gear for use depending on available sizes. Feel free to contact us for any gear questions before purchasing anything!

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Is there any financial costs to playing roller derby?

Skates and protective gear costs can range anywhere from $200 - $1000+++ We recommend trying out some loaner gear first to get a feel for what to buy or asking us questions before making any purchases. Skating with Fairbanks Roller Derby will also require monthly dues ($50) that helps us pay for our practice space and keeping the team running in general. We offer 3 free skate practices with loaner gear for use when available so that folks can see if they like this wonderful sport. We do offer scholarships that can cover dues as well so please let us know if this is something that you'd be interested in. For safety and protection we require all of our skaters to have their own health insurance (private, federal, or with Indian Health Service). In addition to personal insurance we also require specific roller derby insurance through WFTDA (Women's Flat Track Derby Association). WFTDA insurance or WFTDi is an annual payment of $100 and this is required 4 weeks after joining our team. 

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How long until I get to play in a game, and how often will I get to play?
Our volunteer trainers will teach you everything you need to know about how to skate and play roller derby. Once you have passed your minimum skill requirements that determine if you're able to play safely, you will be able to participate in our scrimmages. Scrimmages are informal and held during regular practice time. These are where you can learn the rhythm of the game before we thrust you in front of screaming fans! 
 

What are some other ways I can get involved if I don't want to play?

We are always looking for skaters to join our amazing team of skating officials!  If you take the WFTDA training courses and become a dues paying member you can join us for practices. From there on you will gain experience at our scrimmages and house team games. 

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Don't want to be on skates? Not a problem! Non-skating officials (NSO's) are vital to running scrimmages and games by keeping track of penalties, time, and importantly the score! If you're interested in becoming a NSO, please contact us. 

Why should I choose Fairbanks Roller Derby?
Because skating is super fun. You'll get to skate with some rad individuals, you'll learn a new skill, and you'll get to your on your fitness in the process! What's not to like??

We promote the spectacle, but we play the sport. We understand that derby have a certain titillating reputation, but above all we are athletes.

 

What is FBXRD'S gender policy? Are transgender women allowed to join?

We are a gender inclusive league which includes, but is not limited to, gender queer, gender fluid, transgender, nonbinary, male, and two spirit people. We accept all adults over 18.