Roller Derby Penalties Explained

Roller Derby Penalties Explained

Roller Derby Penalties Explained

If you’re new to derby, the penalty box can feel like a revolving door. But understanding why you’re sent there (and how to avoid it) is key to becoming a reliable teammate. Here’s a breakdown of the most common penalties—without the rulebook jargon.

How Penalties Work

  • Duration: 30 seconds in the penalty box.

  • Limit: 7 penalties and you foul out of the game.

  • Calling a Penalty: A ref blows the whistle, calls your number, and uses a specific hand signal.

The Most Common Penalties

1. Back Block

Contact to an opponent’s back with force.
Avoid it: Aim for the legal zones (hips, thighs, shoulders).

2. Elbows

Striking or jabbing with your elbow.
Avoid it: Keep your arms close; push with your body, not your limbs.

3. Forearms

Using your forearms to push or block.
Avoid it: Lead with shoulders or hips.

4. Cutting the Track

Re-entering the track ahead of someone you passed illegally.
Avoid it: Enter behind the player you cut or take the long way around.

5. High Block

Contact above the shoulders.
Avoid it: Stay low and keep hits aimed at the torso.

6. Low Block

Tripping or blocking below the knees.
Avoid it: Maintain control of your legs and feet at all times.

7. Out of Play

Blocking when you’re too far from the pack.
Avoid it: Stay within engagement zone (20 feet in front or behind the pack).

8. Multiplayer Block

Linking with a teammate to impede an opponent.
Avoid it: Keep your arms free; form walls with positioning, not grabbing. 

Tips for Staying Out of the Box

  • Watch the refs and learn their hand signals

  • Keep your gameplay clean in scrimmages

  • Ask teammates for feedback if you’re getting the same penalty often

Related Reads:

Gear Pick:
Keep your head in the game (literally) with the Penalty Box T-Shirt — perfect reminder of all the penalties to avoid.

Avoid the box, skate with confidence — Shop Roller Revival Derby Essentials and stay game-ready.

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