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Just what are the Bakersfield Rollergirls? Our league is a skater-run organization formed in 2006. Now in our second season, we host several all-girl flat-track roller derby bouts, as well as fundraisers and public appearances. We're proud to promote roller derby and are a positive force in our community.

Why do you do it? Because it’s fun. And legal.

Is there a “typical” Rollergirl? Our team prides itself on its diversity. We’re students, moms, professionals, service workers, teachers, therapists, artists, manicurists...and just about everything in between. We range in age from 18 to our mid 40s. While some girls have athletic backgrounds, for others derby is their first team sport. The Bakersfield Rollergirls come in all shapes, sizes and colors, but what we do have in common is determination, heart, and a passion for bucking stereotypes about women.

How much time will it take? Practice, scrimmages and bouts take a considerable time commitment. It's like a second (or third) job. You'll be expected to attend practices for two hours, two to three times a week and we recommend spending even more time on skates outside of practice. In addition, everyone helps out at bouts and other official events and fundraisers. We are a skater-run organization, so you're expected to pitch in with league duties and attend a team meetings. We're not telling you this to scare you, but we want to be honest: if the time commitment is too much, maybe being a skater isn't the right fit for you right now. However, any derby girl will tell you that it's totally worth it.

Is roller derby fake? Nope! The flat-track roller derby we play is a real sport with no choreographing - except for the half-time entertainment. (Don't believe us? Check out our bout clips!) Roller derby is an aggressive full-contact sport and our skaters are athletes. We train accordingly to keep our skills up to speed and our bodies trained for the grueling workout. We also like to keep a sense of humor, with our snazzy uniforms and saucy names. After all, the real reason we play the game is because it's so much FUN!

Who can join? You must be motivated, female, at least 18 years old and have health insurance to skate with us. We're also looking for men and women to join the BRG Army, who'll help in a variety of roles including referees, stat trackers, announcers and general help. Anyone of any age can help support BRG through promoting, fundraising, sponsoring, and attending events and matches.

Do skaters come in all shapes and sizes? Our skaters range from 4'10" - 6'1". The smaller girls often end up playing as point-scoring jammers. They are usually quick on their feet, wily, easy to whip around, and don't have as far to fall. Bigger girls often end up playing as blockers. Amazons tend to be hard to push around, give strong assists, hit hard and can cover a lot of ground in a single stride. Not to mention that training for and playing roller derby will probably get you in the best shape of your life!

Do I have to be a great skater to even attempt roller derby? You'd be surprised how many of us hadn't skated for years before joining and how quickly it comes back when you work hard. You'll eventually need to pass a skills test, but many derby girls have started out not even knowing how to skate, so willingness to work and push yourself is your most important asset. We have a newbie coach to help you get started out safely and with the right techniques. If you are thinking of joining us the best thing you can do is strap on skates, hit the rink or skate around the park (even your driveway). Get comfortable on wheels and start build up your endurance.

How much does it cost? The biggest expense will be for your equipment (skates and protective gear) and health insurance if you don't already have it. The league charges monthly dues to help pay for expenses like rink rental and advertising. Those dues only kick in after a 30 day trial period, so you'll have a chance to be sure that roller derby is something you'd like to commit to.

What equipment do I need? Every skater is required to wear a helmet, mouthguard, wrist guards, elbow pads, knee pads and quad roller skates (sorry, no rollerblades!). We usually have some gear to loan out to newbies (fair warning... it gets really sweaty, so you'll eventually want your own). Don't be afraid to invest in good protective gear. Good pads, mouthguard and helmets are waaaayyy cheaper than hospital and dental bills. At first, you can use skates you already have or borrow ones from the rink. Once you're ready to commit to roller derby, you'll want to invest in a pair of speed skates.

Ready to shop for gear? Support our team by shopping our online store! It has everything you could want or need. Purchase from this website and BRG earns profit. Best of all, they have a price guarantee, so if you find something cheaper somewhere else, let them know and they'll change the price in our store instantly.

What if I get hurt? It's not if you get hurt, it's when! Pulled muscles, sprains, dislocations, and broken bones can and will happen. This is why protective gear and insurance are required. We also train, stretch and practice falling to help reduce injuries and their severity. To reduce skaters' out of pocket costs, all skaters are required to maintain health insurance. This may sound expensive if you don't have insurance through your employer, but we've found some affordable individual plans through reputable insurance companies or colleges.

Where can I find out more about roller derby? Cruise through the info offered on our Derby 411 page or check out the other derby sites we've linked to. You can also check out our next bout.

By the skaters. For the skaters. Always.

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