Learn To Play Roller Derby
Crash Course
No Experience Necessary (Formerly known as Boot Camp)
When is the next Crash Course session?
Dates: Exact date TBD, likely shortly following Labor Day 2025
Practice Days: TBD
Length: 18-week program
Cost: Cost TBD *Scholarships potentially available
Where does crash course take place?
Summer Outdoor Venue:
Buhr Park Ice Arena - Ann Arbor, MI
2751 Packard St, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Winter Indoor Venue:
TBD
What is CRASH COURSE?
Crash Course is an 18-week program that teaches new derby skaters everything they need to know to play the sport - from basic skating fundamentals, safe falling and recovery techniques, to the rules and intricacies of the game itself. You’ll meet as a group twice a week for two engaging two-hour sessions.
This low-stress fun environment is designed to foster a sense of community before you join the league at large. No previous skating experience is necessary, as we’ve designed the course to train every skater as part of a unified group - regardless of prior experience. Through this method we've successfully trained people who had never worn quad skates before alongside veteran skaters to great success. We’ll teach you the foundational skills and support you as you put them into practice.
As the course progresses, we’ll move from basic skills to contact drills. Finally wrapping up the course with a few simulations of gameplay. This entire experience rounds out your skills and knowledge before joining the league at large.
What do I need?
In order to participate on skates in any capacity, all skaters must have the following gear:
quad skates
knee and elbow pads
wrist guards
mouth guard (we recommend SISU mouthguards)
helmet
WFTDA Insurance (currently $70 annually)
You may purchase new gear or use used gear. Our sponsor Anime to Skateboards is located in Southgate and is a great one-stop shop place for all derby needs. It is highly recommended to go into a store and try on the gear to ensure a secure fit of all safety gear. We also have a list of gently-used gear sold by current league members.
If you are interested in joining Ann Arbor Roller Derby as a skater, email us at recruitment@a2rollerderby.com to get more information.
Former Crash Course Waves
