SoCal Derby has partnered with Slam Diego Roller Derby to create a new skater program that prepares new skaters for both WFTDA and RDCL roller derby.
SoCal and Slam Diego have a long relationship of supporting each others' leagues. Many of our skaters are "bitraxtual" - meaning they skate both flat and banked track roller derby. Joining our shared new skater program provides the added benefit of learning both rulesets and the ability to automatically advance to both leagues upon graduation.
For more information on SoCal Derby, check out www.socalderby.org.
Our adult new skater program is called BONFIRES. Coaches will refer to all Adult Beginner Roller Derby practices as Bonfires practice. And you will immediately be a part of the Bonfires team. A bonfire is where friends come to gather, tell stories and feel welcome. This is what we hope you're able to get from our program, as well as some awesome new skating skills!
Photos by Tristan King
The Bonfires program runs in 8 week sessions and in two levels. Our Bonfires practices will prepare you to eventually scrimmage and play roller derby on a team. For the first eight weeks you’ll learn basic skating skills like skate stride, stops, footwork and how to fall. After passing out of level one, you’ll learn how to skate in a pack, hit and take a hit! Your coaches will spend the time to make sure you understand each skill and provide you with feedback.
Bonfires practices are held twice a week on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. Check out the Practice Schedule page for more information.
You have two options when joining our program: monthly membership or per practice drop-in membership.
Monthly Membership
In order to make roller derby more accessible for everyone, we offer memberships on a sliding scale of $50-80 per month. You can decide the amount you feel comfortable to pay.
Drop-In Fee
If you only plan on practicing every once in a while, or when you're in town, we offer a one-time drop in fee of $10 per practice.
The following gear is required at all roller derby practices.
Quad Roller Skates
Helmet, Knee Pads, Elbow Pads, Wrist Guards
Mouthguard (suggested for level 1, but only required for level 2 and higher)
Our shop of choice is Bo's Boots on Wheels. Be sure to tell them you are skating with Slam Diego. If you already have gear and aren't sure if you can use it for derby, feel free to bring it to any practice. Any of the coaches can look it over and let you know our recommendations.
Our new skater orientations, hosted every other month, are the best way to learn about who we are, what we offer and what's involved in becoming a roller derby player. The next Adult New Skater Orientation will be in January, 2026 To receive more information, sign up HERE.