New to Roller Derby
Never strapped skates on before?
Love to skate but have never tried roller derby?
There is a place for you at Sun State
Sun State has a world-class training program that will teach you the skills you will need to play roller derby. Whatever your starting ability; whether your aim is to play recreationally or competitively - you can progress at your own pace, in a safe and supportive environment.
Come along to one of our info sessions to find out more about the sport and the league. Regular info sessions are advertised on Sun State's Facebook page.
You'll also be provided with details about our next On-Skates Session. Don’t worry if you’re an absolute beginner, we can hold your hand and teach you what you need to know.
It’s as easy as that to start your roller derby journey with Sun State.
We’d love to meet you.
Questions? Scroll down to our FAQ.
Experienced Skaters
Whether you’ve played roller derby before and had some time away, or are a current skater and like the sound of Sun State's culture, we’d love to have you on board.
We recommend you drop into one of our info sessions - you can make sure that Sun State is the right league for you, ask us questions, and we can discuss next steps with you. Regular info sessions are advertised on Sun State's Facebook page.
Alternatively, get in touch with us via email or our Facebook page.
FAQ
I want to play roller derby, but I've never skated before.
You don't have to be a great skater to come along. We'll teach you the basics, and build from there.
Taking some learn-to-skate classes beforehand will make the transition to roller derby less daunting (check your local rink), but they're not essential.
Is there an age limit?
Sun State is an adult roller derby league - you must be 18 years old and over to join.
WHAT GENDERS CAN SKATE WITH YOU?
Sun State are members of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA).
“An individual who identifies as a trans woman, intersex woman, and/or gender expansive may skate with a WFTDA charter team if women’s flat track roller derby is the version and composition of roller derby with which they most closely identify”
All genders are welcome to join as officials, coaches or volunteers, though currently only members who identify with WFTDA’s gender statement can participate in competition. For further details, you can read the WFTDA’s Statement About Gender here.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Sometimes roller derby can be expensive, with costs such as skate gear, membership, dues and insurance. We offer varying levels of membership (full time, part time, casual, official or off-skates volunteer) to try and suit your individual needs. We are also developing a scholarship program and can offer financial assistance in some cases. For more information, attend one of our information sessions or send us an email.
Do I need to be fit?
Sun State welcomes skaters at all levels of fitness and ability.
Roller derby is a unique sport in that there is no typical body type. Skaters of all shapes and sizes are skilled and valued contributors to their team.
Training for roller derby will improve your fitness and confidence, no matter your starting point. Any additional health and fitness activities you undertake outside roller derby can complement and support your skating.
What gear do I need?
In order to skate at your first session, you will need access to quad skates and full safety gear - helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, mouthguard.
While we recognise that the initial outlay for equipment can be expensive, especially when you're starting out - safety is non-negotiable and you cannot skate without the above.
Ask your local skate store about Fresh Meat packs - they include all the gear you need, and are an economical way to get started.
A small amount of second-hand safety gear is available on loan for on-skate sessions, but this is limited and never guaranteed.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Temporary insurance will be arranged at your signup to cover the initial program.
Once you're a full Sun State member, ongoing insurance is purchased through the league.
Where can I find out more about the sport?
Check our About Roller Derby page for a quick rundown of the sport, and links to the rule set.
I'm keen, How do I get started?
Look for our next info session on Sun State's Facebook page.
I still have questions that weren't answered.
Get in touch via email or our Facebook page.