Become A Skater or Referee!
WHO Are We? CGRD is a flat-track roller derby league founded in Feb 2010. We are a 501c3 Not-For-Profit Organization owned and operated by the skaters. CGRD gives back to the community through volunteer work and donations, and game proceeds benefit local charitable organizations. Our skaters are people of all sizes, shapes, and ages (18+). We come from all walks of life, and most of us have minimal prior skating experience, if any!
WHAT is Roller Derby? Today’s roller derby is a far cry from the big hits and theatrics of derby from the 70’s. Modern roller derby and CGRD focus on: COMPETITION, STRATEGY, ATHLETICISM, SPORTSMANSHIP, CAMARADERIE, FITNESS, SERVICE, and FUN!
WHEN/WHERE Does CGRD Play? We typically practice Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30 pm-8:30 pm. Home games and most practices are at AC Brase Arena, 410 Kiwanis Drive. We do play away games with area teams.
HOW is Roller Derby played? Click HERE to learn the basics.
HOW Can I Join? CGRD holds recruitment nights several times a year. At this event, potential referees and skaters can learn how to join the “Fresh Meat” Training Program; a 90-Day training period working with coaches and experienced skaters to learn beginner and intermediate skating skills. There is no obligation to join, just the opportunity to learn about CGRD and try on some gear! Info nights are FREE, and the Fresh Meat program has a cost of $25/month and a 75% practice attendance requirement. Limited loaner gear is available, but bring your own fitted “boil and bite” mouthguard. Check our Facebook page events, contact recruitmentcgrd@gmail.com, or fill out the subscription form to get more specific information on the date of the next Fresh Meat night!
Contact Us!
Ever wondered how you can be part of the action? Check out these Frequently Asked Questions about joining the team!
How do I join?
CGRD accepts new skaters several times a year, so check our events periodically. The typical duration of the training period is about 3-4 months. Contact recruitmentcgrd@gmail.com to get more specific information on the next recruitment night!
How much does it cost?
Fresh Meat is now $25 per month!
When/where is practice?
At present, we typically practice Monday and Wednesday from 6:30 – 8:30 pm at the AC Brase Arena in Cape Girardeau.
What are the attendance requirements?
During Fresh Meat Training we have a 75% practice attendance requirement. We aim to graduate Fresh Meat within 3-4 months via a passing score on the WFTDA Minimum Skills Test. The harder you work, the faster you pass!
Do I need my own equipment?
Yes, eventually! All skaters must wear quad skates and full safety gear including a helmet, fitted mouthguard (“boil and bite”), elbow pads, knee pads, and wrist guards. Inexpensive starter pads can be obtained from Walmart, but you will want to upgrade soon. Limited loaner gear is available from the league.
I haven’t skated since I was a kid, is that a problem?
Absolutely not! Many of our skaters come to us with no experience! We will teach you everything you need to know in the Fresh Meat training program!
I am too big/small/out of shape/old/young/busy, etc….
Your attitude is more important than any of that. If you are interested in playing, we will train you!
What age ranges can join?
You must be at least 18 years of age to join the adult team, but there is no limit to how old you can be! Your attitude is more important than your age! If you are less than 18, we can get you in touch with the Juniors team!
I want to join, but I’m nervous and don’t know what to expect. What do you suggest?
It can seem intimidating, but come check out the first night of the Fresh Meat training period! There’s no obligation to skate or join, and you can meet the players and see what practices are like! Typically the first night consists of general orientation, sometimes followed by basic skating skills instruction. In the coming practices, you will advance from basic skating skills to skills specific to roller derby.
Once I start, when do I get to play in a roller derby game?
That depends! Prior to playing in a game, you will need to pass the “WFTDA Minimum Skills Test” and a written WFTDA rules test to ensure that you have mastered the basics. The harder you work, the faster you will pass those milestones, and the sooner you will be hearing your name over the loudspeakers at a game!
What if I don’t pass my WFTDA Minimum Skills Test?
Don’t worry! If you don’t pass your skills test on the first try, we will work with you on those skills and give you a chance to try again!
I don’t want to skate, can I still be involved?
Of course! There are many volunteer positions open! You could be an announcer, Non-Skating Official, etc. Contact recruitmentcgrd@gmail.com or fill out the form below for further information!
I want to skate but can’t play derby. Can I still be involved?
Of course! We offer referee training as well! Our “zebras” go through the Fresh Meat training period and then are trained by our referee staff. Contact recruitmentcgrd@gmail.com or fill out the form below for further information!