Join us

The course is a scheduled programme that can last up to 16 weeks. We break it down into three sections: safe skating, contact, and ref school.

We understand people learn at different paces, so skaters can progress in their own time whilst being positively encouraged.

Safe skating

These are the skating basics, learning to fall safely, move efficiently and improving balance and power.

Contact

Progression into the world of roller derby means adding the element of contact. You will learn the safe way to make and receive contact, as well where you can and cannot make contact.

Ref School

Being a player is not the only option! Both skating and non-skating officials (NSOs) are a key element to the sport and ensure we have a safe and fair game. Ref school helps skaters understand the rules of the game, which levels up anyone's skills significantly.

During the programme, sessions run on Thursdays between 20:00 and 22:00.

We run our new skater sessions at Ferndown Leisure Centre.

• Free parking

• Accessible parking spaces

• Toilets and changing facilities

• Accessible ramp into the hall (from outside)

Full address:

Ferndown Leisure Centre

Cherry Grove

Ferndown

Dorset

BH22 9EZ

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Our members come to us from Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, and beyond. If you need support with travel, please let us know - we may be able to arrange lift sharing.

Nope - no skating experience necessary!

We’ll teach you everything you need to know.

From a gentle roll to learning how to fall safely; from basic skills to playing a full game!

We’ll guide you the entire way.

You’ll need a pair of quad roller skates, ideally with hard indoor wheels.

Please ask us if you have any questions about skates.

Safety equipment is a must. You will need:

• knee pads

• elbow pads

• wrist guards

• a helmet

We recommend heavy duty knee pad.

A mouthguard will also be needed later in the programme when we introduce contact. Using one whenever you are on skates is a good idea.

The most commonly used type are SISU Aero Mouthguards.

Don't worry - we can loan you kit!

You'll just need to let us know in the sign up form - we'll get in touch to find out what you need before you start.

That's okay - there are so many other ways to get involved in roller derby, without being hit.

You could become one of our fantastic referees - skaters who learn the rules inside out and make sure that the game is played fairly.

Skating not for you? Our non-skating officials (NSOs) also have a key role to play in making the game run smoothly, safely, and fairly.

Do you like stats and snacks? Being an NSO might be a great fit for you!

The first two sessions are free tasters!

We want you to get a good idea of whether roller derby is for you, before you start paying for the sessions.

After the two taster sessions, course fees are £30 per month.

We’d also love for you to join us!

As roller derby is a contact sport, you’ll still need to join through our new skater intake so that we can make sure you’re confident and safe with contact.