Event: https://facebook.com/events/s/free-learn-to-skate-sessions-w/2131815157636356/
Do you want to learn how to roller skate?
Curious about the sport of roller derby?
Want to join a fun and friendly group?
Then come and join one of our introductory learn to skate sessions.
Sessions are free, and we’ll even lend you hire kit
Contact recruit@birminghamrollerderby.co.uk to book your place now.
You must book in advance – some sessions may not be available due to home/away games.
We have twice weekly training sessions: Saturday mornings at Thorns Academy in Brierly Hill, and Tuesday evenings in Northfield (Perry Barr from April onwards).
These sessions are 18+ only.
Any individual who identifies as a trans woman, intersex woman, and/or non-binary/gender expansive may skate with Birmingham Roller Derby. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive, safe space.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON MY FIRST SESSION?
Before your initial session
Once you’ve notified us of your interest in joining a session, we’ll request that you complete a waiver. This form helps us understand any health conditions or prior injuries you might have. It’s at this point that you can request any kit if you need it. This will include quad skates, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards and a helmet.
Following this, we’ll send you a follow-up email with details about the upcoming session. Due to venue availability, our sessions take place at different locations on different days. To be prepared for your session, please come dressed in sportswear and bring a drink with you.
During your first session
Our team of dedicated coaches will assist you throughout. During your initial session, they will help you kit up and get you going. You and your fellow Academy skaters will warm up on skates. This will involve skating around as well as some light stretches to get everything moving properly. If skating initially feels daunting, there’s an option for an off-skates warm-up to ease you into it.
You will be given a skills booklet to keep. There are a number of skills that skaters must be able to perform to be able to take part in roller derby. These include falling safely, stopping, changing direction, and safely engaging in contact. Coaches will assess your progress at each session, signing off on skills once you’ve mastered them. If you find a skill challenging and require extra guidance or want to confirm your proficiency, simply inform your coach, and they’ll assist you accordingly. Once you are able to participate in contact drills you will need to purchase a mouthguard.
Wrapping up your session, we’ll conduct stretching exercises, crucial for muscles that might have been utilised differently than usual.
After your first session
Following your initial experience, we’ll send another email detailing our upcoming practices, session costs, and additional information about the league.
Should you decide to join BRD, you’ll be included in the Academy Skaters group. This group allows you to seek advice on skates or equipment, coordinate rides to practices, seek help with skills, and more.