The History of Roller Derby

In 1935, during the worst times of the Depression Era, a sports promoter named Leo Seltzer invented a spectacle he called Roller Derby. Originally intended to compete with then-popular dance marathons, the derby was a simulation of a cross-country roller skating race in which participants circled a track thousands of times to simulate covering the distance between Los Angeles, California and New York, New York. Occasionally, massive collisions and crashes occurred as skaters tried to lap those who were ahead of them. Seltzer realized this was the most exciting part, and tweaked his game to maximize the carnage.

Today's roller derby is more about athleticism and community involvement.
Check out the links below to learn more!

• How To Play - Video by Gem City Roller Girls
   
• About Beach Brawl SK8R Dolls Flat Track Roller Derby Team
   
• Watch a few of our videos located on our Press/Media Page