Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to roll? This information will explain how to get started with JCRD!
When are tryouts?
Tryouts are typically held twice a year. Tryout dates are announced in advance on this website as well as the league Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/JunctionCityRollerDolls/. The next tryouts are scheduled for Fall 2021.
But, I can’t wait!
If you are transferring in from another league or have some roller skating experience, you can attend one of our monthly trial periods. Our monthly trial periods begin on the first scheduled practice day of each month. Contact us using the form on our home page, or shoot us an email at info@junctioncityrollerdolls.com for info. *Skaters attending during the trial period must have their own skates and gear.
I want to play, but I’m nervous! What is it like to try out?
We offer a friendly and encouraging atmosphere to learn to skate and play roller derby. Yes, you will fall, but you will get back up and keep going–and we will teach you the skills necessary to fall less, hit more, and have fun.
Who can try out?
Drop-ins and try outs are closed to the public. This means no besties, parents, or other guests (unless they are trying out too). They can come see you in all of your roller derby glory once you have your first game or open scrimmage!
You must be 18 or older.
Do I have to be an advanced skater?
No. You need basic skating skills but we will train you from there. If you’re a bit rusty, brush up by going skating a few times before tryouts. Classic Fun Center in Layton offers open skate time 6 days per week!
What is the new recruit program like?
After tryouts, new recruits will go through a training program. We will teach you the skills needed to safely participate in full contact roller derby. Most participants “graduate” from the program within 60 days, some are done in 30 and others in 90. The program is self-paced.
While we can teach skills, we cannot teach you motivation and attitude. The key to success is to try, never say, “I can’t,” have fun, keep trying, ask for help, practice, have fun, practice, try, laugh at yourself, don’t be afraid to fall, practice, and have fun!
What does it cost to try out?
The fee is $40 for your first month “tryout period.” If, at the end of the first month you wish to continue and graduate through your minimum derby skills to be eligible to play in games, you will need to pay for WFTDA insurance (because we are a WFTDA league), which is $70 for the year. You will also start paying monthly dues, which are $40/month. Dues are used to cover rental fees for our practice facility.
What is WFTDA?
Check out WFTDA.com to see what “being a WFTDA league” means and to start getting familiar with the rules of the sport. A handy rules quiz is available at: http://rollerderbytestomatic.com/
What equipment do I need?
Quad roller skates, helmet, wrist guards, knee pads, elbow pads, mouth guard, and a positive can-do-attitude! We skate on polished concrete, which is slick. You’ll want to invest in the right wheels to maximize your experience! Good options include: Atom Poisons, Radar Ghosts, Radar Phantoms, Radar Shadows, Bones Zebras, Sure-Grip Sweet n’ Lows …but your best bet for getting good gear is to come to a drop-in before you try out to get more information from skaters.
JCRD has several online derby shops as sponsors. If you want to buy from a store where you can try on gear first, the SkateNow Shop in Salt Lake City has a selection of derby-appropriate skates, wheels, and protective gear: http://www.theskatenowshop.com/
When and where are practices?
We practice twice a week, Monday and Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. New recruits should plan to attend both days. Consistency is key to building a roller derby fitness routine!
Practices are held at Ogden’s Golden Spike Events Center in the exhibit hall, or at Classic Fun Center in Layton when Golden Spike isn’t available.
Don’t want to be a skater?
JCRD is always looking for extra help! If you or anyone you know is interested in becoming a Coach, Referee, Announcer, EMT, etc. contact us!
Sign me up!
Please complete the form on the home page or contact us at info@junctioncityrollerdolls.com
We can’t wait to meet you!