Who owns and runs BCR?

The Brisbane City Rollers are a skater owned and operated Roller Derby league. BCR is run as a not-for-profit sports club. We are unpaid skaters, who work hard to keep the league going because of our shared passion Roller Derby.

What is the difference between the Punk Blockers and the Nasty Nancies?

The Brisbane City Rollers currently field two teams. The Punk Blockers are BCR’s travel team, these players are selected to utilise a variety of skills specific to each player to work toward victory! These derby dames train very hard and are committed to delivering clean, competitive derby.

The Nasty Nancies are our reserve team. The players selected for this team though newer to bouting, makes them no less competitive. These skaters have been through testing of minimum skills and rules knowledge, as well as focussed training and scrimmage training.

Why do the Brisbane City Rollers train in Ipswich?

This is a long story. There are few rinks left in Brisbane, BCR were able to secure training time at Bundamba Skateaway twice a week. With the QLD flooding that happened January 2011, our venue was destroyed. We currently train at the Ipswich Showgrounds while the Bundamba Skateaway rebuild their facility.

Do you play on a flat or big banked track like on ‘Whip It!’?

Brisbane City Rollers skate on a flat track surface. For a long time, American roller derby was played on banked tracks, these tracks were big and expensive and required reassembly as the derby skaters of the time travelled from town to town. Flat track derby allows the track to created much faster at many more venues... flat and banked track derby exists today.

What’s the typical demographic of skaters in the league?

BCR skater ages range from early 20s to late 40s, from all walks of life. We have teachers, lawyers, graphic designers, teritiary students, accountants, government employess, shop owners, and more. The one thing that all the skaters share is the passion for derby, their diverse backgrounds help shape the team and the running of our league.

Do you throw a lot of punches, elbows and clothesline people?

With any contact sport, there are strict rules and penalties for such actions. Punching, elbows, tripping, use of forearms and pushing opponents from behind are all illegal, as is clotheslining skaters. We follow strict rules as set out by WFTDA (www.wftda.com) to protect every skater.

How much do you train?

We usually have 2 training sessions per week, however we often have additional team training.  We also recommend personal fitness time or cross training for our skaters.

Do you get hurt?

Yes, as in any full contact sport, injuries will happen. As we learn how to fall, whip, scrimm, cross track block and new plays, injuries can sometimes happen. All skaters are put through testing to move to the next step up, be it a basic skills test to move from Fresh Meat to Level 2, to a an in depth rules test to move from level 2 to level 3. We work very hard to ensure the saftey of all of our skaters, not pushing them before they are ready or allowing dangerous play. Most common injuries include ligament damage to knees, shoulder injuries, some soft tissue damage and lots and lots of bruises.

Do you wear protective gear?

ABSOLUTELY! No skater may put on their skates until they are wearing a helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, kneepads and a mouth guard. This will go a long way in minimising silly injuries.

Aren’t you too small / too big to do that?

Roller derby positions and strategies require very diverse skill sets.  No matter what size you are, there’s probably a position that works for your body type. A wide range of sizes can help build a team with varied skills that keeps opponents on their toes.

Who trains the skaters?

Largely, ourselves. We have a diverse coaching staff of skaters and refs who have a great ability to diagnose and plan for all types of play and to create drills to prepare for the toughest of opponents.

Are skaters paid to play roller derby?

No. Brisbane City Rollers, the refs and all non-skating members are members out of love for the sport. No person is paid, we are involved through personal drive.

How long is the season?

Brisbane City Rollers’ competitive season is from March - December. After a break for the xmas holidays, training season starts right back up in January and February.

Are there men’s roller derby teams? Do they need players?

Yes, we are officially a co-ed league with female and male bouting skaters. Our Merby team are always looking to grow the league in this way. Our BCR Merby team use the same WFTDA rule set as the ladies, ensuring a safe and clean game. If you are interested, please contact our Merby coordinator, Gedi-I.

Can I get involved without skating?

Absolutely, we are always on the lookout for officials, extra referees and volunteers. There are many areas that we could use your help. We would welcome you to contact the area which is of interest to you. Our contacts page will have the appropriate person.