Saint Cloud Area Roller (SCAR) Derby Handbook 

 1. Mission Statement and Values 

Mission Statement: St. Cloud Area Roller Derby is a non-profit organization run by league members to empower one another while giving back to the local community. Our mission is to promote athleticism, health, safety, and empowerment for all members while providing unique and entertaining experiences for the local community. We strive to be an inclusive league that values friendship, positivity, community, honesty, and teamwork. Through our non-profit status, we aim to positively impact the individuals within our league and the wider community. 

 

Values: 

  • Inclusivity: We believe in creating a safe and welcoming space for all individuals, regardless of gender identity. 

  • Health and Safety: Our highest priority is the health and safety of our skaters, and we make every effort to ensure that all participants are protected while they pursue their passion. 

  • Empowerment: We strive to empower our skaters and foster their growth both on and off the track. 

  • Athletics: Roller derby is a physically demanding sport, and we aim to develop and showcase the athletic abilities of our members. 

  • Friendship: We value the strong bonds that are formed between our members and believe that the relationships formed through roller derby can last a lifetime. 

  • Positivity: We believe in fostering a positive, uplifting environment where all members can thrive. 

  • Community: We are committed to being an active part of the local community and giving back through our events and outreach initiatives. 

  • Honesty: We believe in transparent and open communication and practice honesty in all of our dealings. 

  • Working Together: We believe in the power of teamwork and support one another both on and off the track. 

 

2.PURPOSE 

The league is open to all qualified participants who meet membership requirements. All activities, policies, and rules are designed with the following in mind: 

  • Safety of all participants. 

  • The best interest of the league. 

  • Decisions are made “by the skaters, for the skaters.” 

 

3. SKATER MEMBERSHIP 

 A) GENERAL PRINCIPLES 

  • Membership will begin on the date upon which payment of the first month’s dues was made.  

 

B) REQUIREMENTS 

  • Skaters must be gender identified according to the WFTDA official policy be female-identified or identified as a trans woman, intersex woman, and/or gender expansive if women’s flat track roller derby is the version and composition of roller derby with which they most closely identify; 

  • All Skaters must be 18 years of age or older by the membership start date. Proof of age may be required.  

  • All skaters must sign a waiver for practices and events exempting the SCAR Derby and the venue from any liabilities.  

  • Complete and submit an emergency contact form.  

  • Skaters are expected to notify trainers/teammates of any relevant medical concerns that may arise on the track, especially regarding emergency medications or life-threatening conditions. 

  • Read and sign the SCAR Derby Handbook 

  • All healthcare costs are the sole responsibility of the individual participants.  

  • All “contact-ready” members of the league are required to purchase individual insurance policies with the Women's Flat Track Derby Association. 

  • The SCAR Derby league strongly encourages skaters to carry primary personal health insurance coverage. 

    • Skaters are required to pay monthly dues.  

      • Dues not received by the 15th will put the member in bad standing. 

      • Members will be placed on suspension from practice, bouts, and member privileges until dues are made current or arrangement has been made. 

      • After one month of missed dues and no determined arrangement, the member is inactivated, and may only return as an active member if, and when, the delinquent dues are paid in full. 

      • In the event of returned check the skater will be responsible for all fees accrued by the league. Skaters will also be required to use cash or money order for all future payments to the league. 

      • Any member who secures $2,000 or more in sponsorship funding will have dues waived for the remainer of the season 

      • Any member who wishes to pay dues upfront for the entire 2024-2025 season before November 1, 2024, will have their last month of dues waived (traditionally May/June). 

      • Individual member dues may be waived for one month following the successful completion of a SCAR Derby fundraiser that raises $200 or more.  

      • If an established or returning member brings a recruit who decides to commit to SCAR derby after the initial “boot-camp” period, one item of merch of their choice will be awarded to the established/returning member. 

  

  • A former skater who wishes to return can only do so with the approval of the executive BoD.  

  • The B.O.D. reserves the right to refuse involvement with the League to any past member, coach, or referee upon a majority vote.  

  • Read and comply with the WFTDA rule set. 

    • Skaters are required to provide their equipment.  

      • The following is mandatory: 

      • Quad skates with stoppers 

      • Multi-impact skate helmet (not a bicycle helmet) 

      • Hard-surfaced Knee pads 

      • Elbow pads  

      • Wrist guards 

      • Mouth guard 

      • Black and White Scrimmage Shirt.  

      • Padded shorts/tailbone protectors, shin guards, knee/ankle supports, and other safety equipment are optional and at the discretion of the skater.  

      • Skaters are responsible for the purchase and maintenance of all equipment. 

      • Uniforms are purchased separately. Information will be provided to each skater at the time of ordering. 

 

4. SKATER CONDUCT 

 

A) GENERAL PRINCIPLES 

  • When representing the league during public appearances at promotional events and SCAR Derby events all skaters are expected to abide by the by-laws, practice requirements, league rules, and all facility rules.  

  • In bout and practice situations all skaters are expected to abide by the rulings of the referees and/or league concerning penalties or misconduct. 

  • At SCAR, we thrive as a team when every member contributes to our community and league events. Participation in fundraisers and events is crucial for the growth and sustainability of our league. We strongly encourage all members to attend as many events as possible, as their involvement directly impacts the success of our endeavors. Together, we can elevate the quality of our events and strengthen our league as a whole.

 

B) SPORTSMANSHIP 

  • Poor sportsmanship, hostile, intimidating, or inappropriate behavior (on or off the track) regarding other members of SCAR Derby, WFTDA members, fans, volunteers, and venue staff will be subject to restoration up to and including dismissal from the League. 

  • It is essential that each skater exhibits respect for the game and each other. Poor sportsmanship, hostile, intimidating, or inappropriate behavior, and disregard for the game rules will not be tolerated. Malicious gossip, derogatory comments (including race, religion, sexuality, gender, and body type), disrespect toward other League members, and other petty behavior will not be tolerated (see League Dismissal). The effect of the behavior, conduct, or communication will be considered over and above any intent. 

 

C) HEALTH AND SAFETY 

  • Protective gear in good working order must be worn during all official practices and bouts. It is also required for special functions where skates are worn. 

  • A skater that appears distracted, preoccupied, injured, or otherwise at risk may be asked to leave the track by a member of the Safety Committee or a trainer. 

  • Refusal to leave the track upon request will be subject to disciplinary procedures. 

  •  A doctor’s note may be required at the discretion of the Safety Committee. 

  • Notify a Training Committee member if you cannot do a particular drill due to a medical reason.  

  • A pregnant skater will be only allowed to participate in non-contact drills. 

  • Skating under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol will not be tolerated at any SCAR Derby function and will be subject to restoration up to dismissal from the league. Any skater believed to be under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol will be asked to leave by a member of the Safety Committee or a trainer. 

  • Jewelry can be worn unless deemed a safety hazard. 

 

D) LEAGUE REPRESENTATION  

  • Each SCAR Derby member must represent the league, WFTDA members, fans, volunteers, venue staff, sponsors, and all other affiliated entities positively. 

  • Positive relationships with the media are developed and maintained by providing accurate and helpful information to the press promptly. 

 

5. PRACTICES 

 

A) GENERAL PRINCIPLES  

  • Practice time will be used for league drills. All skaters are expected to use practice time constructively and productively.  

  • Skaters will always show the Trainers, Referees, and NSOs respect. 

  • All Skaters are expected to follow all posted and verbal rules of our practice venue. 

  • All practices are open to potential skaters to observe. Children or significant others of our skaters are welcome. If the visitor creates disturbances, or distractions, or is disrespectful to any team member, affiliate, or venue they will no longer be allowed at practice. 

  •  Practice times will be shared with skaters. All skaters are responsible for keeping up to date on changes. Advance notice of any changes to the regular schedule will be given as early as possible. 

 

B) PRACTICE ATTENDANCE 

  1. For the skater’s success and the success of the league, it is highly recommended to attend as many practices as possible. A league member without a Leave of Absence that has not participated in any league practices in 30 days will be considered an inactive skater and would be disqualified for scrimmages and bouts upon return to their first practice. 

 

C) LEAVE OF ABSENCE (LOA) 

 

I) GENERAL PRINCIPLES 

  • Skaters requesting an LOA must fill out the SCAR Derby LOA request form. The SCAR L.O.A form must be provided to a SCAR Derby BOD member in a timely manner. 

  • If a skater chooses to not fill out an LOA for pre-approval, she will be responsible for all monies owed before being allowed to participate in any SCAR function.  

  • Skaters can file an LOA in one of the following ways: 

  • A skater may choose to request a full LOA. Dues will be waived, and no league participation is expected. 

  • A skater may choose to request a modified LOA to retain their voting rights by paying dues and continuing active involvement with the league. 

  • Skaters must meet with a designated member of the training committee before returning to active skating to assess their ability to return safely.  

  • The SCAR Derby league encourages those on personal or medical leave to continue to stay involved in SCAR Derby events. 

 

II) MEDICAL LEAVE OF ABSENCE 

  • Skaters who become pregnant and take a medical LOA to retain their league membership status. Up to an additional 3 months can be included for the skater’s postnatal recovery. 

  • Injured members are invited to continue to attend practice to observe and help in whatever capacity in which they are able. 

 

6. RESTORATION PROCEDURES 

 

A) GENERAL PRINCIPLES 

  •  Any leadership position such as B.O.D. members will be held to a higher standard of following league policies due to their extensive responsibilities and positions. 

  • The HR Committee will have full authority to investigate and assess a skater’s conduct. 

  • Restorative justice is an approach to dealing with violations and misconduct that emphasizes repairing harm and restoring relationships. It is different from traditional disciplinary processes, which often focus solely on punishment. Restorative justice seeks to understand the underlying causes of the violation or misconduct and to empower the person who committed the violation to take responsibility for their actions, make amends, and repair the harm caused. 

 

Using restorative justice in dealing with violations and misconduct in a roller derby league promotes a positive and inclusive community by fostering accountability, healing, and restoration of relationships. It allows for a deeper understanding of the circumstances that led to the violation or misconduct and provides an opportunity for growth and positive change for all involved. By using restorative justice, the roller derby league can create a safe and supportive environment for all members and work towards building a stronger, more united community. 

  •  SCAR Derby has a zero-tolerance policy for serious offenses that will be dealt with immediately up to and including expulsion from the League. 

 

B) VIOLATIONS AND MISCONDUCT  

  • Violations refer to actions that breach rules or regulations set forth by SCAR Derby or the community. 

  • Misconduct refers to behavior that is inappropriate or disruptive to the overall well-being of the community 

 

C) PROCESS FOR DEALING WITH VIOLATIONS 

  • Initial Report of Incident: When a league member violates the rules or engages in misconduct, the first step is to report the incident to the appropriate authority within the league, such as a Head of Human Relations or a member of the Board of Directors. This report should include a detailed description of the incident, any relevant evidence, and the names of any witnesses. 

  • Investigation: Upon receipt of the report, the league will investigate the incident's facts. This may include gathering additional information from witnesses, reviewing video footage, or speaking with the person who committed the violation. 

  • Restorative Justice Circle: Once the investigation is complete, the league will schedule a restorative justice circle to address the violation or misconduct. This circle should include the person who committed the violation, the person who was impacted, and any other relevant participants. The purpose of the circle is to provide an opportunity for the person who committed the violation to take responsibility for their actions, make amends, and repair the harm caused. Responsibilities of Participants:  

  • The person who committed the violation: The person who committed the violation is responsible for their actions, be honest and transparent about the harm caused, and actively engage in the restorative justice process. They should be open to hearing the impact of their actions on others and should take steps to make amends and repair the harm. 

  • The person who was impacted: The person who was impacted has the responsibility to participate in the restorative justice process in a respectful and non-judgmental manner. They should be willing to share their experience and the impact of the violation or misconduct on them. They should also be open to hearing the perspectives of others and should work towards a resolution that promotes healing and restoration. 

  • Other Participants: Any other participants in the restorative justice circle, such as witnesses, league managers, or coaches, should be respectful and non-judgmental in their role. They should provide support and guidance to both the person who committed the violation and the person who was impacted and should work towards a resolution that promotes healing and restoration for all parties involved. 

  • All Participants: All participants in the restorative justice circle are responsible for maintaining a safe and respectful environment for open and honest communication. They should listen to each other without judgment and should work together towards a resolution that addresses the harm caused and promotes healing and restoration. It is important to remember that restorative justice is about promoting positive change and building a stronger, more united community. 

  • Follow-Up Actions: After the restorative justice circle, the league may take any necessary follow-up actions, such as further training, community service, or suspension from the league. These actions should be based on the outcome of the restorative justice circle and should be designed to help the person who committed the violation to grow and become a positive member of the community. 

  • Monitoring and Evaluation: The league should monitor the situation to ensure that the harm has been repaired and the person who committed the violation has fulfilled any follow-up actions. The league may also conduct regular evaluations to assess the effectiveness of the restorative justice process and make any necessary adjustments. 

 

7. ADMINISTRATION 

 

A) GENERAL PRINCIPLES 

  • Elected positions shall manage the business and affairs of SCAR Derby. 

  • Appointed positions shall manage the functional activities of SCAR Derby. 

  • Skaters must submit a 30-day notice before resigning from any elected or appointed position. 

    B) EXECUTIVE B.O.D.

    I) GENERAL PRINCIPLES 

  • Shall meet at least once per month, at an agreed-upon time and place, or virtually. 

 

C) MEMBERSHIP 

  • Voting officers of the Executive B.O.D. shall consist of a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, Liaison and Board Member at Large. 

  • All Board positions are voting positions

  • Elected skaters must always be in good standing. 

 

D) TERM AND ELECTION 

  • All Board Members are elected according to the terms of the SCAR Derby By-Laws. 

  • If any elected BOD member is unable to finish their term, the league shall elect a new member to fill that BOD seat.  

  • The emergency-filled position will be voted in in an electoral process by the end of the 30-day notice. 

  • The elected Skater will serve the remainder of the term. 

 

E) OFFICER DEFINITION 

I) PRESIDENT: (Rebellin’ Reapa)

  • The principal officer of SCAR Derby. They shall preside over all meetings and elections. 

  • Shall create an agenda for all meetings. 

  • Responsible for the interpretation and administration of SCAR Derby rules and regulations. 

  • Voting Position

    II) VICE-PRESIDENT: (Jacklyn Hyde)

  • Shall substitute for the President as the principal officer at the express request of the President or when the President is unavailable.  

  • Voting Position

 

III) SECRETARY: (Bad News Bear)

  • Shall keep the minutes of the B.O.D meetings and be a custodian of the records of SCAR Derby.  

  • Shall submit the meeting minutes to the league within 15 days of the monthly B.O.D meeting. 

  • Shall be responsible for the upkeep of skater files.  

  • Voting Position

 

IV) LIAISON: (Iron Manic)

  • Shall be the sole communicator between the B.O.D. and the league. 

  • Shall be responsible for all incoming correspondence. 

  • Voting Position

V) TREASURER: (Ruth Sk8r Ginsberg)

  • Shall have charge and physical custody of the funds for the SCAR Derby. 

  • Shall give a monthly financial report to the B.O.D.  

  • Voting Position

VI) PR/MARKETING:  (Lucky Lacey)

  • Shall provide oversight and assistance to the following areas: Photography, Events, Website, Printing, Media Outreach, Bout Programs, Online surveys or voting, and social media.

  • Voting Position

VII) SKATER AT LARGE (Dr. Whiplash)

  • Assists the PR/Marketing committee as well as other committees that need additional help/support

  • Voting Position

F. COMMITTEE HEADS 

I) PR/MARKETING:  

  • Shall provide oversight to the following areas:

    • Photography - Setup photographer for team photos, Special photoshoots, 1-2 photographers at Bouts

    • Events - Team Gathering events (Holiday parties, end of year party, etc.)

    • Website - Is responsible for website maintenance. Keeps website up to date with events, team photos, merch shop (work with Financial/ Merch committee)

    • Printing - Works with Finance committee for budgeting and creation of posters/fliers, bout programs, and tickets. Ensures all marketing materials are approved, sent, and ready to print for each event.

    • Bout Programs - (see “Printing” above)  

    • Creates and manages online surveys or voting, including on social media (can use any survey format). Records votes and sends results to the B.O.D. as needed. 

    • Works with other committees on an as-needed basis.

    • Social Media Outreach - Responsible for the following posts:

      • TikTok (expectation is posting once a week)

      • Instagram (expectation is posting once a week)

      • Facebook (Photos/Headshots, Game photos, Reels) Facebook is split & shared with all committees, but the expectation is to help cross-post from other committees as needed

 

II) FINANCE:  

  • Shall provide oversight to the following areas:

    • Dues - keeps track of who pays dues and when. Skaters who want to pay dues with PayPal 

      will have automatic invoices sent out every 1st of the month. Reminders will be sent to those who haven’t paid before the 15th.  Keeps PayPal invoices clean and organized.

    • Sponsorship - This role keeps track of current sponsors, including their sponsorship level or other contract (i.e. trades), and ensures those obligations are met. Will be responsible for adding sponsors to bout sheets. Works with PR/Marketing to make sure active sponsors are added to website/programs. Keeps a list of sponsors we have used and wish not to use again. Makes sure no sponsors have a conflict of interest.

    • Merchandise - Making sure a yearly/monthly budget gets set and followed. (manages Merchandise budget to avoid over-spending). Logs inventory and/or maintains a “merch” list. Is responsible for Merchandise sales at each event, including keeping Square information up-to-date. Works with PR/Marketing to keep website shop up.

    • Fundraising - Setting up fundraisers, making sure we have enough members to attend. Keeps all fundraiser details organized. Can appoint a “head person” for each one.  

    • Budget - Creating a yearly budget, from that making a monthly budget. Is responsible for recording all transactions, including invoices, accounts received, and accounts payable; In addition to all saving/checking/banking accounts and CD records. At every board meeting this role has an update from the past month to share with the board. Large purchases will be brought to the B.O.D. for approval prior to purchase.

    • Charities - Setting up charities for Bout/Mixers. Working with PR/Marketing to make sure they have info for charities for Bout/Mixer programs. Making sure charities get paid.  

    • Ticketing - Responsible for setting ticket pricing.  Making sure tickets are set up to sell on website for Bouts. This position partners with PR/Marketing for printing of paper tickets.

    • Assists Personnel/the HR Committee as needed. Assists the Athletics committee as needed. Assists the PR/Marketing committee as needed. Works with other committees on an as-needed basis.

    • Works with other committees on an as-needed basis

    • Social Media Outreach - Responsible for the following types of posts:

      • Tickets for events

      • Merchandise

      • Charities’ posts

      • Any supportive post for members (i.e. gofundme, etc.)

 

III) ATHLETICS:  

  • Shall provide oversight to the following areas:

    • Practices and Training - Practice planning and organization is handled by coaches and trainers (athletic committee), who also assist with lesson planning and ensure that training plans are set up before each practice.  

    • Inter-league - Will handle the scrimmages & Bout contact emails. Makes sure scheduled emails are sent out for each scrimmage/Bout. Handles the team info on Game sheet, contract sheets for Bouts. 

    • WFTDA - Keeps records of the league’s insurance. Works with financial when league insurance renewal is due.  Keeps records of individuals' insurance information for each season. 

    • Safety - Safety is a top priority, and we ensure that all skaters have appropriate skates, pads, and helmets. We also conduct concussion screenings and help fill scrimmage and bout EMS slots

    • Works with other committees on an as-needed basis.

    • Social Media Outreach -

      • Bout/scrimmage (game photo, countdown, after party, etc.)

      • Holiday/theme day trends (i.e. goth day, frog day, women’s athletics, etc.)

      • Boot camp information

      • Events created for practices

      • Canceled events/practices due to safety and/or weather conditions

 

IV) PERSONNEL:   

  • Shall provide oversight to the following areas:

    • Human Resources and Paperwork - Ensures that the emergency contact sheet, waivers, code of conduct and/or t handbook paperwork is organized and signed each start of season, or when new skaters/officials join or transfer. Works with the Safety Person from Athletics for concussions screening paperwork. Is responsible for LOA/Resignation paperwork. Makes sure all forms and paperwork are kept organized and neat.  

    • Handbook - Responsible for making updates/changes to handbook or bylaws

    • Attendance - Keeps track of attendance for bout eligibility requirements

    • Recruiting - This committee works with the Finance committee to actively find ways to recruit. Distributes and maintains fliers in locations of sponsors, and/or other places that will allow.

    • Bout Staffing - Works with Athletics to Manage the volunteer social media page (i.e. Facebook) Responsible for making sure we have enough volunteers to cover all the open slots, including NSOs. Works with the Head Ref (if active) to find coverage for skating official roles during Bouts/events. Having all the names for On/Off Officials and volunteers logged in the Bout sheet.

    • Works with other committees on an as-needed basis.

    • Social Media Outreach - Responsible for the following types of posts:

      • Birthdays

      • “Meet the skater” (or “reintroducing a skater”)

      • Recruiting 

      • Special events that are not otherwise delegated to another committee head

V) LIASON:

  • Shall provide oversight to the following areas:

    • Newsletters - The Newsletters will cover 3 months of information including - events, bouts, scrimmages, and mixers. One newsletter will be made for the public (i.e. the Volunteer group and/or those on our Email list) with public information. Another newsletter will be made for SCAR skating officials and skaters. The Newsletter will go out 4 times per year:

      • Start of January

      • April

      • July

      • October

        • Works with other committees on an as-needed basis

8. Skating Officials - Rules and Expectations

A) In order to become a member of the SCAR officiating team you must:  

I) Go through Boot Camp at the beginning of the season as a skills/safety refresher. Dues or Boot Camp fees as applicable will be expected to be paid at this time. 

AND

  • II) Complete two of the following options in order to gain and maintain good standing as a SCAR official:

    • Monthly dues may be paid. If this option is taken the official is also privileged to take part in league voting, and attend closed league events (e.g. the holiday party, end of the year party etc.) 

    • Referees may act on a committee and complete committee work as assigned and/or is necessary and do so in a timely manner. 

    • Referees may work with others on the referee team and the athletics committee to create a 10-to-15-minute lesson plan based around rules and regulations for each practice at least once a month. 

    • Referees may work with new skaters/officials on learning skating basics, rules, and referee roles 

III) All Officials, regardless of the options chosen, will be allowed/encouraged to work with other roller derby organizations/teams 

IV) All Officials, regardless of options chosen, will be required to attend one practice within the 30 days preceding a SCAR skating event (i.e. a bout or scrimmage put on by SCAR), in order to officiate at that event as a SCAR referee. 

B) Practice expectations are as follows: 

  • Officials will join the skaters for lace up, warm up and relevant non-contact drills (non-contact drill participation will be decided at the discretion of the practice lead and/or athletics committee in collaboration with the Official/ Officials team). 

  • Once skater begin contact drills or non-relevant non-contact drills Referees can break off and discuss rules/ referee roles and engage in learning opportunities.  

  • In the event of scrimmage or scrimmage-like drills (on the discretion of the practice lead and/or athletics committee) Referees will return to the group and practice calling penalties or fulfilling other referee duties as required the skill development of both the referee team and the skaters.  

C) Referee/Official incentives

  • If a SCAR referee chooses to pay dues as one of their membership requirements, and they engage in refereeing at a non-SCAR event, their dues will be waived for the following month. 

  • SCAR refs are eligible for bout incentives as non-SCAR refs. 

 

The Executive Board of this League reserves the right to determine a commonsense approach to respond to any situation or circumstance that is not specifically covered by these Policies. 

 

I have read and agree to abide by this handbook during my membership within SCAR Derby.