Click the questions below to get answers.

Do I need gear before I join ECRG?
You do not need to have your own gear to try out. We have loaner pads available to prospective skaters, but they are limited in size and have not been “gently used.” Once you become a member of ECRG, it is expected that you purchase all your own gear and your own skates.

Where does ECRG practice?
We practice at the Regional Sports Center at the corner of 32nd and Main Street in Springfield. Note: practices are CLOSED to the public. If you would like more information about practices, please contact us through this website and we would be happy to answer your questions.

When is the next tryout/clinic?
If it is not posted on our website, we are currently in-between tryouts/clinics. Keep checking – as soon as we finalize the dates, it will be posted.

What skating skills do I need to have to become a member of ECRG?
You need to know the basics:
  • Be steady on your feet. (If you are still holding the wall or wobble a lot, you need to practice more.)
  • Be able to do crossovers. They don’t have to be fabulous, but they need to be there.
  • Be able to skate on one foot, balance on one foot through the straightaways, and then balance on the other foot through the other straightaway.
  • Be able to generate some speed. During a tryout you will be timed to see how many laps you can make in one minute.
  • Be able to weave between cones approximately 2 feet apart.
  • Be comfortable skating in a close pack of people. Hey, it’s what we do.
  • Practice good skating form – knees bent, neutral spine, elbows in, chin up.
  • Be able to do a T-stop to a complete stop using all four wheels.
  • Be able to start from a standstill – without picking up your feet! Then skate a full lap – without picking up your feet!
  • Be able to skate in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions. 
Do I have to be 21 to be involved?
No. If you are 18 or older, you can join our referee crew, and we are always looking for volunteers for our bouts. In addition, girls ages 10 to 17 can join the ECRG's Junior Gems. (For more information about the ECRG Junior Gems, please visit http://www.emeraldcityjuniorgems.com/pages/ECRG.)
If I don’t pass on the first tryout, can I try again?
You betcha! We love those stubborn, you-can’t-keep-me-down-forever types!

Do you provide childcare for practices or tryouts?
Unfortunately, we do not have childcare available at this time. However, many derby mamas coordinate efforts to allow each other to attend practice as often as possible.
How much does roller derby cost?
Skaters pay monthly dues ($30) that help pay for the rental of our practice space, and every player must pay for WFTDA insurance coverage which is $55 once a year. Skaters also pay for their own uniforms, skates, and gear. Prices on these items vary greatly, but you are STRONGLY encouraged to buy quality brands that are made for high-impact sports.

Anything else I need to know?
Check out the rules! Go to http://www.wftda.com/rules and study the rules. It’s a great way to learn more about the game and you will eventually be tested on your knowledge!

What’s a skate clinic?
A skate clinic is an opportunity to prepare for tryouts. This gives any derby hopeful a chance to hook up with some derby girls, find out what they need to work on, and get some tips.