Decades of Roller Derby
Ten decades of roller derby — from the 1935 endurance origin through banked-track television years to the modern flat-track revival. Select a decade to view the people, teams, events, and collections active in that era.
Leo Seltzer's endurance race transforms into a contact sport on the banked track.
Tours, USO shows, and the resilience of a touring sport through wartime.
Television lifts the sport onto regional franchises and the National Roller Derby League.
Barnstorming circuits and rival promotions expand the audience across North America.
Peak attendance and network broadcast — the Bay Bombers, Pioneers, and Chiefs define the era.
The major league collapses; RollerGames and theatrical variants reshape the format.
Regional independent leagues and family preservation efforts keep the flame alive.
Austin TXRD reboots the sport on flat track, founding the all-women's amateur model.
WFTDA goes international; MRDA and junior derby extend the community.
Post-pandemic restructuring and continued community ownership define the present.