Roller derby boot camp starts Feb. 1

GALLATIN ROLLER GIRLZ

The Gallatin Roller Girlz, Bozeman’s flat track roller derby league, is recruiting women for league skaters and men and women for referees, non-skating officials and volunteer positions with the league.

Starting Feb. 1, GRG is offering its only “Fresh Meat Boot Camp” for the year. The camp is required for all new skaters and referees wishing to join the league, with the exception of existing contact-rated transfer skaters from other leagues.

The camp is open to men and women 18 years old and up and includes coaching throughout the eight-week program, use of try-before-you-buy gear and skater insurance. Open enrollment runs Feb. 1- 11.

The camp is designed to support new skaters as they learn to derby. Based on a ground-level curriculum, the camp graduates a full class of skaters into contact-level skating with the league.

During the camp, non-contact basic skills will be taught and skaters are then enrolled in Derby 101 – another eight-week program directly following the boot camp that teaches the finer skills of the sport including blocking and strategy.

To learn more about the league and FMBC from current players, check out the camp meet and greet on Jan. 24, from 4-6 p.m. at Wild Joe’s Coffee Spot, at 18 West Main Street in Bozeman.

GRG recommends that skaters begin the camp on the orientation evening, Feb. 1 from 7-10 p.m. to get the full benefit of the camp. Show up early and be ready to start practice at 7 p.m. sharp at Bozeman’s Gallatin County Fairgrounds, Building No. 3. Bring a mouth guard and any gear you may already own.

GRG will maintain open enrollment Feb. 4, 8 and 11 for skaters who cannot make the orientation. Send a private message to GRG’s Facebook page to reserve tryout gear.

Gallatin Roller Girlz are a 501(c)(3) federal nonprofit recognized with full member status by the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association.

Visit grgderby.com or the Gallatin Roller Girlz’ Facebook page for more information.