What is Roller Derby?

'Roller derby is an American-invented contact sport—and historically, a form of sports entertainment—based on formation roller skating around a track. While traditionally a professional sport for both women and men, roller derby has developed a predominantly female, amateur circuit in its current revival.'

How it Works

During a bout, two teams of five skaters each face off on the track. In our case, a flat track. Each team consists of a pivot, three blockers and a jammer. The pivot sets the pace and leads the group of skaters, and the blockers stay behind them, guarding each other in what we call "the pack." The jammers are the scoring skaters and start about 20 feet behind the pack. When the whistle blows, the pack takes off. On a second whistle, the jammers start fighting their way through the pack. When the first jammer makes it through the pack, she's designated the "lead jammer." The jammers must lap the pack once before sprinting through the pack to score points by passing members of the opposing team. A jam lasts a maximum of two minutes, but the lead jammer has the right to call off the jam by putting her hands on her waist. The rest of the team tries to stop the opposing jammer from passing them and scoring. At the same time, they knock around the opposing team's blockers to help their jammer score.

Watch This!

This video explains brilliantly how to play the game and what is and isn't allowed. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_T8izdlc-dY