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WATCH OUT FOR THE NEXT BOOTCAMP STARTING IN AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 

Bootcamp

Looking to learn how to play roller derby?

Want to learn the skating skills you need for roller derby? We hold a training camp, or bootcamp, once a year. You don’t need derby experience to do bootcamp, but we recommend having some basic skating skills. We'll teach you the rest: how to fall safely, take hits, and more.

Frequently asked questions

When does bootcamp happen?

Once a year, usually in the fall. You will practice twice a week over the course of three months and will learn all the skills necessary to join the league. 

Exact practice times may change from year to year. You can expect one practice on the weekend and one on a weekday evening. We expect you to attend 60% of those practices. You can expect similar practice times and attendance requirements once you join the league. 

I just missed the bootcamp, but I want to join the league. Can I join before next year?

MTLRD’s bootcamp is the only way for beginners to join the league. If you want to get involved with the league before the next bootcamp, volunteering is a great way to get to know the community. You can contact volunteering@mtlrd.com. If you are interested in becoming a referee or non-skating official, reach out to officiating@mtlrd.com.

If you’re currently a member of another league, see the “Transfers” section below.

I know how to skate already, but I’ve never played derby before. Is bootcamp for me?

Yes! Bootcamp is open to different levels of skaters, from total derby beginners to those who want to refresh their skills before re-joining the league. We suggest practicing some basic skating skills (standing on skates, moving forward, slowing down), but we teach derby-specific skills in the bootcamp. 

What will we learn in bootcamp?

A LOT. In the first part of bootcamp, we cover skating skills necessary to play derby (falling, stopping, crossovers, transitions, lateral movements, toe stop work, etc). We then apply those skills in derby situations and cover blocking, pushing, hitting, skating in formation, etc. We also, of course, will teach you the rules of roller derby!

What equipment do I need to attend bootcamp?

You need to bring full protective equipment. Derby is a contact sport, and we need to take safety seriously. The following are required at all practices:

• Quad skates

• Knee pads

• Elbow pads

• Wrist guards

• Mouth guard 

• Helmet that covers the back of the head. No bike helmets. 

How will my skills be assessed?

You’ll be asked to fill out a self-assessment and will meet with coaches. We are endlessly excited to bring new skaters into our league and will simply be looking to ensure that you obtain the skills that will ensure your safe integration into the league. At the end of bootcamp, skaters who have achieved a functional level on all the required skills will be eligible to participate fully in MTLRD practices, including scrimmages. Skaters who are missing some skills will continue to practice those skills until they and the coaches agree that they have achieved a sufficient level for full and safe participation.

Want to take part in Montreal Roller Derby’s next bootcamp? Join our email list to be notified when sign up opens. 

Returning skaters

If it has been more than three months since you have skated with MTLRD or any other league, we’ll need to assess your minimum skills. This form of assessment can take place at our mid-year recruitment session or you can attend our bootcamp (see above). Bootcamp is a great way to get back into the swing of things and to get to know our league if it has been a while since you’ve skated.