What if I can’t skate?

No problem! No prior skating or derby experience is needed to join. In New Recruits, you will learn basic skating skills focused on balance and stability. Once you’ve got the basics down, you can move on to ACD’s Rookies program.

What if I know how to skate, but I have no derby experience?

The Rookies program is the perfect place for you to start! In Rookies, you will learn basic skating skills and beginner contact skills. Once you have mastered the Rookies skills, you will be able to join non-contact and low-contact portions of the Mixed Level practices.

What if I’ve played derby previously?

Please visit the Experienced Derby Players page for information about dropping in to current practices.

Please be prepared to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 and proof of WFTDA insurance at your first practice. You will also need to sign the Liability Waiver and fill out the Attendance Form/Screening Questions.

Do I need gear?

Yes, but if you’re not ready to commit to buying a whole set of gear from a skate shop, you can also rent gear from Angel City! Please email skate@angelcityderby.com to request information about renting gear.

Once you have rented a set of gear, you will be responsible for bringing your full set of gear (skates, helmet, and all of the pads) to and from practice. Please note you are not permitted to be on skates unless you are wearing a full set of protective gear.

What is New Recruits?

Over the course of this program, ACD trainers teach you the basics of how to skate safely, a foundational skill for roller derby. You will learn skills focused on increasing your balance and stability on skates. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you graduate to ACD’s Rookies program.

Please email skate@angelcityderby.com to sign up for New Recruits! Space and gear may be limited, so don’t wait to get rolling with ACD!

What is Rookies?

In the Rookies program, ACD trainers will teach you intermediate skating skills, fundamental roller derby moves, and early stage derby strategy. These skills include derby-approved stops, transitions (moving from forwards skating to backwards skating and vice-versa), initiating contact, and more!

Rookies meets once a week, on Saturdays from 10am-12:30pm.

Please email skate@angelcityderby.com to sign up for Rookies! Space and gear may be limited, so please be sure to let us know you’re interested so we can make sure we can get you geared up.

Can I have a sneak peek?

Of course you can! Here’s your future in one video. Filmed at our warehouse with some of our skaters!

What is the schedule for New Recruits and Rookies?

Saturdays
When in session, New Recruits meets once a week, on Saturdays from 10am-12:30pm.

New Recruits and Rookies run simultaneously. You may be moved from one group to the other, depending on your skill level (as assessed by the trainers).

How much does it cost?

Please see the Pricing Information page for details!

COVID-19 Safety

Please read our full COVID-19 Safety Guidelines for more information.

All participants are required to complete the Attendance and Screening Questions form on the day of each practice they attend. Responses on the Attendance Form will be used for contact tracing in the event of a COVID outbreak.

I don’t want to play derby or skate, but I do want to participate!

No worries! Playing derby isn’t all we offer. Become an official. You can join our excellent crew of skating and non-skating officials who are part of our Parks & REFreation crew. Email  officials@angelcityderby.com  to request information.

What if I’m under 17?

You must be 18 years old to join our adult league, but see our Juniors page for ages 7-17.