When is the Junior Roller Derby season?

SLOCO’s season runs from September to June. Returning skaters start practice for the 2024-25 season on Sunday, Aug. 25; new skaters start Sunday, Sept. 8. Skaters are also welcome to join at any time after that. 

Do I have to know how to skate?

We welcome skaters at any skill level — we will teach skaters everything they need to know to play roller derby and to learn to skate for those brand new to roller skating. 

What ages does your team allow for skaters?

We are open to those 5 to 17 years of age. The youngest and/or newest skaters start with skating skills.

Is the team open to boys and/or girls?

We are an inclusive team that fosters positivity and leadership among the skaters and welcome all kids at all skill levels. 

How do I sign up for the team?

Fill out this Google form to express your interest for the 2024-25 season. The 2024-25 registration form will be available starting Aug. 1.

HOW DO I JOIN THE NEWSLETTER?

We send out the team newsletter every month (except July). Sign up here.

What gear is needed?
  • Quad skates
  • Helmet
  • Mouthguard
  • Wrist guards
  • Elbow pads
  • Knee pads

See recommended equipment list here.

Can I start GOING TO PRACTICES without having all the gear?

We have loaner gear and a limited supply of skates available for as long as skaters need them. We can also recommend which gear and skates to get if you still need to purchase anything.

What is the time commitment?
  • Team practices at Santa Rosa Park in SLO.
    • Fridays, TBA (competitive skaters only)
    • Sundays,  1:15-4:30 p.m. (whole team)
  • One bout, scrimmage or special event per month.
  • Optional weekly skating classes through Doomsday Skate School
  • Optional bonding activities
  • Quarterly fundraisers
When will I be able to participate in a bout?

There are three levels skaters achieve in order to be approved to play different levels of roller derby in scrimmages and bouts. Skaters pass skill requirements and a rules quiz to move into each level. Skills testing is incorporated throughout  practices.

What are the different levels and what do they mean?
  • Level 1 means skaters can block positionally and intentional contact with opponents is not allowed.
  • Level 2 means skaters can use pushing contact called lean blocking. Initial contact can be made gently and then skaters can apply more force; forceful initial contact is not allowed
  • Level 3 means skaters are demonstrating adult level competency with roller derby skills and can play full contact roller derby. These skaters are also expected to help teach lower level skaters and to be ambassadors for their league, flat track roller derby, and the Junior Roller Derby Association, our governing body for youth roller derby.
How do skaters get their skater names and numbers?

Skaters come up with their own names and pick their own numbers (pending the names and/or numbers being used by other skaters).

My skater is more interested in learning to skate first, are there any options?

If your child would be more comfortable taking basic skills classes first or concurrently with joining the junior roller derby, Doomsday Skate School runs monthly classes in Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, and Morro Bay. There will also be two clinics through Doomsday Skate School in collaboration with SLOCO on Sundays, July 28 and Aug. 18 from 2-4pm. The July clinic will focus on beginner skills and safety- things like stopping, falling, how to get up, basic striding and so on. The August clinic will have a fun, synchronized skating theme.

Is there a cost associated with being a part of the team?

There is a monthly fee that can be paid quarterly or for the whole season. Fee waivers are available on request. The fee schedule will be shared by Aug. 1.