Roller Derby in East Texas

What’s the fastest growing sport in America? Roller derby! Beginning in April, Lufkin’s own Skate Ranch will host practice for the East Texas Bombers Roller Derby League on Tuesday and Thursday nights. It seems that there are often a lot of questions attached to roller derby for both skaters and non-skaters. We checked out the website for the international governing body for the sport, the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA), to find some answers to common questions.

What is Flat Track Roller Derby?

According to the WFTDA, “Flat track roller derby is a fast-paced contact team sport that requires speed, strategy, and athleticism.” In previous versions of roller derby, an inclined skating surface was used. With the growing sport evolving with the ages, the flat track version was adopted in 2001. This allows any flat surface to be easily transformed into a competitive or practice location. Many leagues carry out their creative spirit in using basketball courts, parking lots, and airplane hangars.  Of course many leagues also take advantage of great locally owned roller skating rinks such as Skate Ranch in Lufkin, TX.

Are there rules or guidelines to flat track roller derby?

Absolutely! While many on the outside may think that roller derby is just made up of a bunch of women skating in circles, there is quite a bit of skill and strategy involved. The WFTDA rules handbook is over 40 pages in length. That includes a lot of details for making sure the sport is consistent from league to league.

Who participates in flat track roller derby?

Anyone over the age of 18 can participate. Many leagues actively recruit ladies that are looking to participate in a fast-paced, fun, and growing sport. In fact as of April of 2015 the East Texas Bombers are currently recruiting participants, referees, and volunteers in Lufkin!

The derby practices at Skate Ranch on a regular basis. Don’t forget to check out the East Texas Bomber home bouts right here in Lufkin!