Tucson Derby Brats has announced that they will launch a new pee-wee league for girls and boys between the ages of 6 and 9. The league, tentatively called "Skater Tots" will play a minimal contact type of game similar to that played by the Tootsy Rollers out of Seattle.
Skater Tots and Tootsy Rollers is different than conventional roller derby, even Derby Brats. Each team has a jammer and three blockers. The jammer will wear flags similar to those used in flag football (the Seattle video does not show this). The object of this game is to have the blockers be able to pull the flags from the opposing team's jammer to score points. This teaches the basic skills for the jammer to try to avoid blockers and break the pack as well as for blockers to be able to learn to work in a close pack and be able to work the other team's jammer. The absolute fundementals. The game has minimal contact but skaters are expected to have their gear (helmet, quad skates, pads, etc.)
I have even heard comments from here in Phoenix, that some adult skaters may consider doing this type of game in drills.
The first meeting and practice will be on Friday, January 11, 2008 at 6PM at Catalina High School, north rink. NE corner of Pima and Palo Verde in Tucson. No skating experience is needed
ARIZONA DERBY REPORT
Michelle A. Eyre/Michi-chan
