To the Stars Through Roller Derby
Who we are….
Ad Astra Junior Roller Derby is a co-ed group of young people aged 7-17 who enjoy the competition and camaraderie of roller derby. Skaters meet twice a week at Sk8away in Topeka, Ks, to practice their skills and push toward greatness!
We have two teams (Charter and Novas), representing two different skill levels.
Our Charter team is comprised of our most experienced players, who have demonstrated not only skating and athletic skill but also leadership and dedication to their team and community. The Charter team is a competitive team, traveling to tournaments throughout the nation. We have attended tournaments in Nebraska, Iowa, Oregon, Texas, Florida, and California.
Our Novas team is made up of our younger or newer players who are working toward placement on the Charter team. The Novas participate in local mash-ups and smaller regional tournaments.
Our 2026 Charter team roster: The 2026 Novas team roster:
FAQs
When and where is practice? Skaters practice twice a week at Sk8away in Topeka, Ks. Practice is typically Tuesday nights from 6-8 pm and Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30 am. Show up any time!
What should skaters wear? Skaters are required to wear a helmet, knee and elbow pads, wrist pads, and a mouth guard. Pads and helmets can be borrowed during the first few practices. Moldable mouth guards can be purchased from Sk8away or any sporting goods store. Skaters can wear their own skates or borrow a pair when they arrive.
How much does it cost? The first four practices are free! If you decide to join, the dues are $40 per child, per month.
What are some of the benefits? Roller derby helps kids build confidence, develop strong bodies, learn good sportsmanship, and forge lifelong friendships. Just ask our skaters!
What is roller derby?
Roller derby is a fast-paced, full-contact sport played on roller skates, typically involving two teams of five players each. The goal is for one team to score points while preventing the other team from doing the same. Here’s a breakdown of a roller derby team:
- Jammers:
- Role: The point-scorers.
- How: Each jammer wears a star on their helmet. Their job is to lap the opposing blockers and score points—one point for each blocker they pass legally.
- Speed & Agility: Jammers are typically fast and agile, weaving through the pack.
- Blockers:
- Role: The defensive players.
- How: Blockers form the “pack” on the track, trying to stop the opposing jammer and help their own jammer get through. They use body positioning, blocking, and legal hits to control the flow of the game.
- Strategy: They often work together to create “walls” or offensive formations to assist their jammer.
- Pivot:
- Role: A blocker who can become the jammer.
- How: The pivot wears a stripe on their helmet and is the only player who can receive the star pass from the jammer, becoming the new jammer during play.
- Versatile: They’re often a strong, skilled player capable of both blocking and jamming.
- Game Structure:
- A game consists of a series of short periods called jams (typically 2 minutes or less).
- Each team has one jammer on the track at a time, and the other players are blocking and trying to control the pack.
- Key Rules:
- Legal Hits: Players can block with their shoulders, hips, and arms, but illegal hits (like to the head or back) are penalized.
- Power Jam: If the opposing jammer gets sent to the penalty box, the other team’s jammer gets a “power jam,” where they score freely without opposition.
Roller derby is high-energy and strategic, combining speed, strength, and teamwork to outscore the opposing team. It’s also known for its vibrant, supportive community and DIY spirit!
Interesting in joining?
Are you 7-17 years of age and think you might enjoy roller derby? If so, click below for more information, or just check us out at practice! We’ll get you everything you need to try it out.
Junior roller derby rules and regulations
Click below for the Junior Roller Derby Association (JRDA)’s rules and regulations.
Volunteer opportunities
We want you! There are many ways you can volunteer and help Ad Astra Junior Roller Derby, from being an official, to coaching, to helping with team logistics or activities. Click below for more info.
Sponsorship
Looking for a way to support Ad Astra but don’t have a lot of time for volunteering? Check out our sponsorship opportunities.