- sydneyrollerderby
Level 1 - Learn to skate program open!
Sydney Roller Derby League's skater development plans are officially open for 2023! Level 1 and Level 2 are both open for signups. Which one is most suitable for you?

LEARN TO SKATE - Level 1 intake
The juicy details:
Where: Dunc Gray Velodrome, 27 Carysfield Road Bass Hill
When: Sundays 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Start Date: Sunday March 5th
Finish Date: Sunday May 21st
Cost: $110 (plus compulsory insurance paid to Skate Victoria - $85).
This is a fully gender-inclusive program.
Skaters who complete LEARN TO SKATE - LEVEL 1 are in a primo position to continue to Level 2 - ROLLER DERBY FUNDAMENTALS, where we teach skills specific to the game of roller derby OR to begin shadowing our incredible referee crew to become a referee or Non Skating Official (NSO).
What will I need?
- Quad roller skates (not in-line skates)
- Helmet (appropriate for skating, sorry bicycle helmets don’t count)
- Wrist Guards
- Elbow Pads
- Knee Pads (Ideally vert style - you want some padding in there)
Already feel pretty nifty on a pair of roller skates and just want to learn derby stuff? Check out Roller Derby Fundamentals with Sydney Roller Derby League, or email us for more info.
Want more information?
Check out our FAQs below, if you can't find an answer here drop us a line at skateprograms@sydneyrollerderby.com
Who is it for?
Level 1 is open to anyone 18 years and older who wants to learn beginner roller skating skills (Level 1 is strictly non-contact).
When, where and how much are the sessions?
Sessions are run at SRDL’s training venue, Dunc Gray Velodrome in Bass Hill on a Sunday. Level 1 is a 12 week course that you purchase from SRDL is $110 plus $85 for insurance purchased through the Skate Vic portal
Do I need to know how to skate?
No, Level 1 is geared towards beginner to intermediate skaters, so no experience is required.
By attending Level 1 will I be able to join a team and play derby?
Level 1 is a learn-to-skate program that is run by SRDL, but is independent from becoming a member and skater for SRDL. Level 1 will allow you to acquire the skills to try out for our Level 2 Roller Derby Fundamentals program or become a referee, if you are interested in officiating as a referee or an NSO (Non-Skating Official).
What if I can't make every session?
Level 1 is a progressive program but skills will be reviewed each week, so you will have a chance to cover any skills you missed. Chat to your coach if there is anything you’re concerned about. We also strongly encourage skaters to practice outside of scheduled sessions.
Is full payment required if I can not make all the sessions?
Yes, you will need to pay for the 10 week program. We cannot facilitate a pay-per-session & the course fee is non refundable once you have started the program
Does SRDL provide gear or will I need to purchase and/or borrow my own?
No, SRDL does not have the capacity to provide gear; you will need to source your own
What gear did I need again?
Helmet (not a bicycle helmet)
Knee & Elbow pads
Wrist guards
Quad Skates
Some people also like to wear padded shorts, or purchase a Tailsaver to protect their tailbones. Some skaters also like to wear shinguards.