In recent years, we’ve seen a popularity resurgence in the nearly century-old Sport of roller derby. Reinvented in 2001 as a competitive contact Sport, roller derby has gained tremendous momentum, rolling out (see what we did there) over 100 junior roller derby leagues now active across the United States. This exhilarating Sport is quickly becoming a beloved American pastime and its high-contact, fast-paced nature highlights the importance of effective risk management. At O2 Sports Insurance, we’re honored to support our roller derby clients by providing comprehensive policies that address the risks and liability that may arise.
Risks Associated With Youth Roller Derby
- Injury
Accidental injuries are an unfortunate reality in many Sports. Roller derby requires advanced skating skills, strategy, and constant awareness of surroundings, which can pose significant risks. Its contact-heavy nature can lead to serious incidents, including falls, sprains, fractures, and concussions. - Equipment
Protective gear such as helmets, knee pads and skates are critical and essential for safety. Improper maintenance or damage to equipment could lead to a more serious injury to participants in addition to costly repairs and replacement without proper coverage. - Venues/Rented Premises
A key aspect of roller derby is the venue itself. The skating surface must meet specific standards outlined in The Rules of Flat Track Roller Derby—requiring it to be clean, flat, and free of damage to maintain safety. Roller derby is commonly hosted in rented spaces, and any damage to these venues—even accidental—can incur substantial costs. Organizations like the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association require Teams to secure liability coverage to use these spaces.
Covering Roller Derby League Operations
- General Liability
Leagues are often managed by volunteers or small organizations, which can face legal challenges if a claim is filed due to an injury to a participant or spectator. Risks include improperly placed spectator seating, lack of barriers, and other venue-related liabilities that the League may face in the event of an accident. O2 Sports Insurance provides General Liability policies to cover claims and liability that may arise. - Excess Accident and Medical
Roller derby is fast-paced and exciting—but it also comes with unique risks both on and off the track concerning accidents and injuries. O2 Sports Insurance offers Excess Accident & Medical (EAM) coverage to help with unexpected injuries that may occur during activities.
O2 Sports Insurance Keeps Youth Roller Derby Safe and Thriving
Youth roller derby leagues are exhilarating fun, but contain inherent risks that can be addressed with Sports Insurance. At O2 Sports Insurance, we provide comprehensive coverage to many Roller Derby clients, ensuring that all aspects of the Sport are insured. Do you have a Roller Derby league that needs insurance? Contact us today to receive a Sports Insurance quote!