Roller Derby Rules
How to Play the Game
If you're unfamiliar with Roller Derby, here's a brief explanation of how the game is played. If you are a little more experienced, click here for the current official rules.
PIVOT
- sets the pace for the pack and is the last line of defense
- wears helmet with a stripe.
BLOCKER
- tries to stop opposing team's jammer
- assists their team's jammer through the pack
- makes life difficult for opposing team's blockers
JAMMER
- tears through pack & scores points
- points scored by passing opposing team's blockers & pivot
- additional point scored each time opposing team's jammer is lapped wears helmet with a star
The pack begins with a pivot from each team in front, three blockers from each team in the middle, and a jammer from each team far in the back. When the whistle blows, the pack takes off, and on a second whistle, the jammers follow and then fight their way through the pack in an attempt to become "lead jammer." The jammers lap the pack and when they re-enter the pack on their 2nd and subsequent passes, they earn a point for each member of the opposing team that they pass.
A jam lasts a maximum of two minutes, but the "lead jammer" has the right to call off the jam, strategically, at her discretion. Penalties are earned for unsafe or illegal behavior and can get a player thrown in the cage for one minute, during which time their team plays short their position.
Click here for the WFTDA Standardized Flat Track Roller Derby Rules (Updated May 26, 2010)
Questions about the Rules?
Click here for the Questions, Clarifications and Answers on the WFTDA website.
