ROLLER DERBY

A sport that began almost a century ago is staying modern and current right here in Fargo. The Fargo Moorhead Derby Girls (FMDG) bring the classic sport to life, made up of and run by a close-knit and hardworking community.

oller Derby is a tough sport, there’s no denying that. But with that tenacious play on the track comes the same in character, and that’s exactly what the organization is going for. According to their website, the FMDG, “challenges social stereotypes and strives to provide positive role models for young and old alike. Through the league’s bouts, events and outreach, we aspire to new levels of athleticism, competition and creativity.”

A roller derby game is called a “bout,” comprising twominute “jams.” According to the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) website, “the terminology ‘bout’ comes from boxing, because a derby match is a fight to the end.”

Through training, the members of the FMDG practice and perform like any other athletic organization or club, but they also take care of every bit of the operation for the nonprofit as well. Everything from running the bout to graphic design to filing taxes and anything else is volunteer work. The coaching staff, referees and nonskating officials are all volunteers.

FMDG welcomes individuals from all walks of life and identities: transgender, cisgender and nonbinary, and every body type, experience and level of athleticism. New skaters, whether they have a lifetime of experience in athletics or none at all, will work with the coaches and peers to understand and grow skills in roller derby.

“We work together to unlock our inner athletes by pushing and supporting each other both physically and mentally. We give to the league in the hopes that we can create a great life-changing experience that will affect our members and the larger community for the better.”

- Fargo Moorhead Derby Girls website