Roller Derby FAQs

Is roller derby fake?

No way! When you watch the Brewcity Bruisers you are watching a legitimate full contact sport with competing teams, real hits and zero choreography.

How do I become a roller derby player?

Those interested in finding out if roller derby is right for them are encouraged to check out the Brewcity Bruisers roller derby boot camps or joining the Brewcity Bootleggers, our recreation league. Those interested in training and being drafted to a Brewcity Bruisers team should check out our Recruitment page.

I don’t want to play roller derby. What other opportunities are there with the Bruisers?

There are many opportunities to get involved with the league. You can volunteer to help with the Bruisers on bout day by emailing volunteers@brewcitybruisers.com. You can join the fantastic and always fun Brewcity Beerleaders. The Officiating Crew (referees and non-skating officials) also has opportunities for volunteers as well as full members.

Is there an age requirement to play?

You must be 18 or older to be eligible to become a member of the Brewcity Bruisers and there is no maximum age limit. The recreational league is open also open to skaters 18 and over. If you are under 18 you should check out our Junior Derby/Micro Brews program.

What equipment do I need to play roller derby?

Roller skates! You will also need a helmet, elbow and knee pads, wrist guards and a mouth guard. Bigfoot Bike & Skate has the equipment you need to get started – their contact info can be found on our sponsor page.

How much do you get paid to play?

Nothing! All skaters, officials, coaches and beerleaders are volunteers and work together to operate the Brewcity Bruisers and bring the highest level of women’s flat track roller derby to Milwaukee.

How do skaters get on a specific team?

The journey usually begins by joining the Brewcity Bootleggers, our recreation league, and working through the ranks — 101, 201, and 301. After Bootleggers 301, skaters may choose to test in the summer, and become eligible for the annual BCB draft held in the fall. At that time, skaters are placed onto one of the four home teams (Crazy Eights, Maiden Milwaukee, Rushin’ Rollettes or Shevil Knevils). Once on a home team, skaters can try out for the Travel Team and skate with the All Star team or Battlestars (Brewcity B-team).

What is the WFTDA?

The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) is the governing body for women’s flat track roller derby, and a membership organization for the leagues to collaborate and network. The organization develops and maintains the standardized rules for roller derby, in use by WFTDA member and non-member leagues internationally. The WFTDA also serves as the sanctioning body for flat track roller derby games, hosts international tournaments annually, sets safety standards, provides roller derby insurance to athletes and leagues, and serves as a networking venue for flat track roller derby leagues to share resources and get advice. There are approximately 400+ WFTDA member leagues. wftda.com

How do I become a sponsor?

Companies interested in sponsoring the Brewcity Bruisers or receiving more information about sponsorship opportunities should email sponsorship@brewcitybruisers.com 

Are the Brewcity Bruisers’ bouts family friendly?

Yes. If the Bruisers were a movie, they’d get a PG rating. There are discounted tickets for children 12 and under and kids of all ages will enjoy the action and the opportunity to meet the skaters! The bouts are full contact sporting events so there will be the occasional enthusiastic fan – but who can blame them? They’re watching roller derby.