Meet the Rollerbillies Cambridge Roller Derby
Meet the Rollerbillies: Cambridge Roller Derby
Founded in 2011, Cambridge’s flat-track derby league has grown from a handful of skaters into one of the region’s most established teams.
How the Rollerbillies got started
Founded in 2011, Cambridge Roller Derby’s Rollerbillies were the first flat-track roller derby league in Cambridge and remain one of the fastest-growing sports leagues in the region. What began with a small group of passionate skaters has grown steadily over the years across both recreational and competitive levels. Players from all kinds of backgrounds have come together to build a formidable league that punches well above its weight, both domestically and internationally, with well-established bouts held at venues including The Junction, the Duxford Imperial War Museum, and Leisure World.
Who runs the league
The Rollerbillies are run by a passionate, committed team of volunteers spanning both the UK and international members. Trainers, referees, medics, and officials all take on responsibility for making sure every game is an enjoyable experience for competitors and spectators alike.
Vision and mission
Vision
To provide an inclusive and welcoming environment for all skaters, including those transitioning from recreational to competitive levels.
Mission
To promote the development of skills in roller derby, support the growth of sustainable teams within the community, and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Life off the track
Pop-up events
Rallies, carnivals, and tournaments give newcomers a fun way to learn the basics, while also giving experienced players a chance to sharpen their skills in a friendly but competitive environment.
Fundraising events
Bake sales, pub quizzes, and even charity runs help raise funds throughout the year, going toward protective gear, skate components, and other essential equipment for the team and its members.
Regular socials
Casual social nights keep members updated on news and announcements while giving everyone a way to stay connected and meet new people over a fun evening out.
Personal development
Believing in growth both on and off skates, the Rollerbillies run workshops on subjects like nutrition, public speaking, resume writing, and networking — recognizing that many members are also working professionals who value continuing to build skills off the track. Training for beginners and aspiring members is also on offer.
Notable players
Polly O’Brake
One of the league’s original members, instrumental in building the foundation for the Rollerbillies’ growth. Now a lead jammer, she remains one of the key faces of the team.
Emily Trixie
Joined the Rollerbillies in 2015 and quickly became one of their most successful players thanks to a powerful playing style, continuing to inspire other skaters and lead by example both on and off the track.
Eddie Robinson
With the team since its earliest days, Eddie is now one of the most experienced players on the roster, bringing a wealth of knowledge along with an impressive record in competitive bouts.
Safety requirements and regulations
All Roller Derby tournaments organized by the Rollerbillies fully adhere to strict safety requirements to keep everyone protected. Every skater must wear full protective and safety gear during any tournament game or practice, including helmets, elbow pads, knee pads, wrist guards, mouthguards, and appropriate footwear or skates. Every participant must sign a waiver before taking part in any tournament, and every team is required to have a designated medic on hand to provide medical assistance whenever needed.
Strategies and training
The Rollerbillies have built a comprehensive set of strategies and techniques for success on the track. Practices start with skating drills designed to improve agility, footwork, and positioning — skating smoothly and quickly from point A to point B, stopping without injury, controlling speed and momentum, communicating effectively, tackling opponents successfully, and building a finely-crafted short game for maneuvering. Intense scrimmages then help players practice their skater and blocker roles across a range of configurations. Safety remains the top priority throughout — the team consistently refreshes its knowledge of rules and regulations so that skill development never comes at the expense of anyone’s health.
The Rollerbillies have picked up a wide range of awards over the years, including multiple World Cup titles, National Championships, and All-Star game recognitions. Their most significant accomplishment remains winning the International Roller Derby Cup twice, in 2011 and 2014, and the team has continued securing strong finishes at national-level competitions ever since — with members also going on to coach international teams, referee major events, and help shape the rules and judging standards of the sport more broadly.
