Frequently Asked Questions

So you've got questions, maybe you're a derby virgin (how exciting!) or maybe you just want some info about our bouting venue (also exciting!). Well, you're in the right place. And if you don't find an answer below just send us an email.

What is "roller derby"?

Roller derby is a full contact sport, played on roller skates. Each game of roller derby, called a “bout”, is played between two teams, each fielding five players at a time on the track. Each lineup is made up of four blockers, including a pivot, plus one jammer. The pivot is identified by the striped helmet cover, and the jammer is recognised by the helmet cover with a star on either side. Each game runs for 60 minutes, made up of two, 30 minute halves that are further broken down into 2 minute jams. Read a full description of the game on our Derby 101 page.

Sounds awesome! Where can I get tickets?

Tickets can be purchased here, or by searching for "Adelaide Roller Derby" through Humanitix.

Can I bring my kids to a bout?

Of course! Derby is a really fun, family-friendly event. Unfortunately due to current Covid restrictions we are unable to allow our regular skating area for the littlies – please check back with us here or on social media for future updates to these restrictions. But once we return to normal, our bouts at the Adelaide Showgrounds even have space for your littl'uns to tear around on their scooters/skateboards/skates too, which makes halftime extra fun for them 🙂

All safety gear is required and it's your responsibility for their safety.

Is there food/drink available at the bouts?

Yes! The food that is available differs from bout to bout to keep things interesting, but we always have something available so that you can grab a feed and something to whet your whistle while you watch all the action!

What time does it start and finish?

Single bouts doors open at 6pm, with the first whistle about 6:45pm. Double Headers bouts doors open at 4pm 4:45pm. But be sure to get there early for team introductions, otherwise known as 'skateouts'. We takes these very "seriously" at ADRD 😉

Get in at doors open to hear amazing live music from local bands and mooch around the Bout Village with lots of local makers bringing their wares to party.

Bouts typically finish around 8:30pm, depending on time-outs and official reviews.

Keep up to date on our Facebook for bout Event Pages and all the finer details!

Do I need to bring something to sit on?

We provide a limited amount of seating in the form of grandstands, however if you wish to sit right besides the action in the danger zone we recommend something to cushion your tush! Alternatively, you may bring a fold down chair to sit behind the red line. There is currently limited grandstand capacity while we're still following social distancing guidelines, so bringing a low seat or cushion is highly encouraged!

Do you play indoors or outdoors?

Indoors! This allows us to play rain, hail or shine! The pavilion can, however, get pretty cold over the winter months so we recommend bringing a jacket to rug up in.

So you want to join Adelaide Roller Derby and be a roller skater, referee or non-skating official?

We run an intake once a year, around October. head to New Member Intake to find out more information.

Can I hold a stall at your Bout Village?

Yes! Adelaide Roller Derby loves to support local. If you'd like to hold a stall at any of our bouts, get in touch at boutvillage@adelaiderollerderby.com, and one of our lovely members will be in touch with you with all the details.

What does it mean to be a WFTDA member league?

The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association is the international governing body for the sport of women’s flat track roller derby and a membership organisation for leagues to collaborate and network. The WFTDA sets standards for rules, seasons, and safety, and determines guidelines for the national and international athletic competitions of member leagues. There are currently 422 WFTDA member leagues and 46 leagues in the WFTDA Apprentice program.