Frequently Asked Questions
Who can skate with the Slayers?
This sport is for anyone that wants to give it a try! We are a gender-inclusive league for ages 9 to 17. We will never “cut” any athlete. All skill levels are welcome. No skating experience necessary!
What skills does my child need in order to skate with the Slayers?
Are try-outs required like with other sports?
No tryouts necessary! We'll teach them everything they need to know, starting with safe-skating skills. We'll also never "cut" an athlete.
How much does it cost to get started?
Dues are $35 each month. There is a $50 annual mandatory insurance/registration fee. Contact us with questions about discounts for siblings. There is no cost to try it out, though!
What gear/attire are necessary to play roller derby?
Quad skates, helmet, elbow and knee pads, and a molded mouth guard are necessary to play roller derby. Skates and all protective gear can be borrowed at Skates 280 (cannot be taken home) for practices until you're ready to purchase. Dress comfortably in clothes that won't interfere with skating. Once your child begins competing, the only required attire is one reversible jersey top.
The only gear that must be purchased right away is a molded mouthguard.
Can we try it before we commit?
Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Just contact us to coordinate a day for your child to come skate with our friendly and welcoming kids and see if roller derby is right for them. Just bring protective gear and skates if you have them. If not, no worries! You're welcome to borrow some from us for practice. The only gear that must be purchased right away is a molded mouthguard.
Also, check out our schedule for details on watching the Slayers in action!
When and where are practices?
We practice **Thursday evenings from 6:30pm to 9pm at Skates 280, located at 7043 Meadowlark Drive in Birmingham.
Click here for directions.
**Practice schedule is subject to change. Please contact us with questions.
What does the process of learning to play roller derby look like?
First we teach them how to skate, stop, and fall safely on their protective gear. They will then learn the game in three levels: first with no contact, then minimal contact, and finally with full contact. Skaters are frequently evaluated on their skills and when we (and they) believe they are ready, they can move up to the next level.
When is roller derby season?
The season is basically year-round. We practice on Thursday evenings throughout the year. We play against other teams on weekends, usually Saturdays, ideally a couple of times a month.
When do the Steel City Slayers compete?
We compete against other teams pretty much year-round, usually a couple Saturdays a month.
Where do the Steel City Slayers compete?
Home bouts are held in the Birmingham area. We travel to neighboring leagues for away bouts. Some nearby leagues include Tuscaloosa, Huntsville, Atlanta, Rome, Savannah, Nashville, Chattanooga, Fort Walton, and more.
What can I do if I want to try roller derby, but I'm older than 17?
Part of the beauty of roller derby is there's no upper age limit! Once you've aged out of junior roller derby, there are adult leagues to join! We highly recommend checking out Druid City Dames if you're interested in skating with an adult league.