WFTDA Official Rules
What is the game?
A pack is formed with both teams on the court. Each team in the pack is represented by one pivot and three blockers. Each team's Pivot is in the front of the line with the blockers in formation behind her. Each team’s Jammer is in the back.
When the first whistle blows, the pack takes off to start the jam, and on a second whistle, the Jammers start racing towards the pack. The Jammer that breaks through the pack first is named “lead Jammer.”
Once the jammers lap the pack, they try to break through again, receiving one point for each woman they pass in bounds. Each jam lasts a maximum of two minutes, but the “lead jammer” can call off the jam at any time.
How many games are there?
Houston Roller Derby consists of 4 teams. Two teams can bout each other at a time. You will see two games that consist of two twenty-minute periods.
What is a “pack”?
Each team will have a maximum of 5 players per jam; (1) Jammer, (1) Pivot, and (3) Blockers. It is possible to have less than 5 per jam due to penalties. It is not possible to have more than 10 per pack (5 from each team). Any skater 20 feet behind or ahead of the pack will be assessed a penalty and can not cannot legally block until they get back within the 20 foot boundary of the pack.
Still don't understand?
Be sure to watch this animation titled "HOW ROLLER DERBY WORKS" by How Stuff Works. |