World Skate

World Skate Roller Derby is a dynamic and fast-paced sport governed by World Skate, the international federation for skateboarding and roller sports. It features two teams of fifteen skaters competing on a flat, oval track, with gameplay divided into two 30-minute periods. Within these periods, play is broken into short bursts called "jams," lasting up to 90 seconds each.

Each team fields five skaters per jam: three blockers, one pivot and one jammer. The jammer, identifiable by a helmet cover with a star, scores points by lapping opposing blockers. Meanwhile, blockers work to hinder the opposing jammer while assisting their own, creating a thrilling mix of offense and defense.

World Skate Roller Derby's rules shape the sport in several key ways, influencing strategy, pacing, and player roles:

- Jam Duration & Timing: Jams last a maximum of 90 seconds, shorter than the standard 2-minute jams in other leagues. This forces teams to adopt faster, high-intensity strategies.

- Penalty System: All penalties result in a 30-second trip to the penalty box, and players foul out after seven penalties. This encourages disciplined gameplay and strategic blocking.

- Continuous Motion Rule: Skaters must maintain continuous counterclockwise movement—stopping is only allowed in specific situations, such as recovering from a block or avoiding a collision. This keeps gameplay fluid and dynamic.

- Scoring & Lead Status: Jammers gain scorer status once they legally complete their initial pass and emerge 10 feet ahead of the foremost blocker. The lead scorer can change mid-jam if overtaken or penalized.

- Pivot Role: Pivots can break from the pack and become scorers if the opposing jammer has already gained scorer status. This adds an extra layer of tactical decision-making.

These rules create a fast-paced, strategic version of roller derby, emphasizing agility, teamwork, and adaptability.