Frequently Asked Questions
FAN QUESTIONS
Where are you located?
Currently, we are without a permanent venue. If you know of a large space in Sarasota/Bradenton, let us know and we’d love to consider it for our events and practices! To learn more about what we are looking for, view our new venue news post.
When are your games?
Check out our 2023 Schedule for the most up-to-date info!
How much are tickets? Where can I buy them?
Tickets are $10 pre-sale, $15 at the door with discounts for kids and groups over 10.
What are the rules of roller derby?
There are a TON of rules and penalties that are assessed when rules are broken. The referees use a series of hand signals to communicate to one another and players and the crowd what is going on. Players are tested on their knowledge of the rules through a written test before they are considered ‘bout’ ready. Rules can be downloaded from the WFTDA website here.
How are the crowds at your games?
We are so lucky to have the best fans in the world. Our games are loud and exciting with hundreds of fans in the stands at every event. We also have a Fan Code of Conduct that we take very seriously.
Do you sell beer at your games?
Yes! No matter where we end up, we will sell concessions like most sporting events.
Is roller derby scripted?
No! Modern roller derby is all real, utilizing strategy and athleticism from all of our skaters.
Do you throw elbows and punches?
Old-school derby was a lot more aggressive and, while emotions get heated on the track, we no longer throw punches as the sport has become a lot more about strategy and athletics than showmanship.
LEAGUE QUESTIONS
Who owns the league?
We, the skaters, referees, and non-skating officials own the league! We pay to play and have advertisers to help cover costs.
What are the differences between the Bomb Squad, Nuclear Bombshells, and Fusion Bombs?
The Bomb Squad is our WFTDA charter team that competes competitively against teams all over the country. We are currently ranked 108 out of 376 teams. The Nuclear Bombshells are our recreational WFTDA team who play teams that are similarly skilled. The Fusion Bombs are our open-gender team.
Do you have a code of conduct?
We have a zero-tolerance policy for sexual, physical, verbal and/or any other kind of harassment towards skaters, officials, volunteers, and fans. Violation of this policy will result in immediate removal from the venue. To learn more, please view our Code of Conduct.
How can I sponsor your league?
The Bombers are forever grateful to our generous advertisers and partners. For more information on becoming an advertiser, please download the 2023 Bombers Advertising Kit. To become an advertiser, please fill out the form and our Advertising Manager will reach out. To view our current advertisers, see our list here.
Can I sell my items at your games?
We would love to chat with you about your interest in vending at our games. Contact us for more information.
Can my organization be a charity?
Each of our home bouts recognize a different local charity. Proceeds from raffles entries are donated to each charity. We appreciate any and all support for our local organizations and love being a part of the community. To become one of our charities for our next season, please contact us. To view our current community partners, see our list here.
NEW SKATER QUESTIONS
How do I join?
We hold two recruitment classes every year, in January and June. Check out our events to see when the next class is starting. If we are in-between classes, contact us about joining as a non-skating official in the interim. It is truly the best way to get involved and learn everything you can before the next recruitment begins.
I don’t know how to skate. Where do I start?
Although skating experience helps, you don’t need any experience to join; only the willingness to learn. Several skaters in the league never skated a day in their lives before joining the league. We can teach you how to skate derby style, but you must be committed to doing your part.
Are there any specific requirements?
We accept all skill levels, but you must be willing to work. Roller derby is a contact sport and demands a lot from your body, so you must maintain a certain level of endurance and skill in order to play safely without injury to yourself or to others. However, like football, there are positions in derby suited for all body types. Derby is about skill, not necessarily strength or size. So you can never be too big or too small to be a derby skater. All skaters MUST be 18 years or older.
We have three teams, our two WFTDA teams and our open gender team. Anyone can join our league and our WFTDA teams follow the gender guidelines put forth by the organization. To learn more, read here: WFTDA Gender Statement
WHAT ARE YOUR COVID-19 SAFETY PROTOCOLS?
We require all members to either be fully vaccinated OR provide a negative Covid-19 test every two weeks. We require masks during practice and are evaluating monthly and following WFTDA guidelines to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
How do I graduate from Firecrackers to a spot on the team?
Before graduating to official Bomber status, you will be required to take two skills tests and pass a basic derby rules test. This process usually takes between 4 and 6 months. Our league does not hold tryouts and anyone who is willing to work hard makes the team. We continue to work with you until you are completely trained, regardless of how long it takes you to master all required skills. Some skaters are Firecrackers for a long time. Some move right along to a team.
What is the time requirement?
As a Firecracker, there is no required time commitment. You will be allowed to practice 2x per week, and we suggest that you come to both in order to stay on track with our training program and not fall behind. Once you’ve made the team, our attendance requirements are 60% of practices, which equals 2 practices a week. Skaters also must attend 25% of our non-game events. Open Gender team practices are subject to change.
What are the rules of roller derby?
There are a TON of rules and penalties that are assessed when rules are broken. The referees use a series of hand signals to communicate to one another and players and the crowd what is going on. Players are tested on their knowledge of the rules through a written test before they are considered ‘bout’ ready. Rules can be downloaded on the Women’s Flat Track Derby association website here.
How much are dues?
Your first month is free. After that dues are $45 a month.
Where can I get skates and gear?
There are a million places to purchase your equipment. There are used sites online for gear and skates if you are looking for something pre-owned. We will go over everything you need to get started at recruitment. And any of the skaters on the team can give you advice on what they prefer, we love talking about skates!