“One of the best things about this sport is how inclusive it is. You don’t have to be super fit, you can be great at it no matter your age, shape, or size,” says the co-captain of Wearside Roller Derby as the team looks for new members.

Sunderland’s roller derby team is opening its doors to new skaters in April, giving more people across Wearside the chance to learn, compete, and enjoy this exciting sport.

You can join one of the city's most inclusive sports | Wearside Roller Derby

placeholder image — You can join one of the city's most inclusive sports | Wearside Roller Derby

Wearside Roller Derby’s new skater intake programme begins on Monday, 20th April 2026. The course takes place across eight sessions, hosted at the team’s training spot at Castle View Enterprise Academy.

Participants will learn everything they need to play the game, from how to skate to the rules and tactics, at their own pace with full support from coaches and experienced team members.

The programme is designed to accommodate everyone, whether they’re complete beginners or have played derby before.

An inclusive sport for all, currently the team (and its supporting officials and volunteers) is made up of people from across Wearside, ranging in age from 18 to the mid-50s.

Earlier this year, the team landed a spot in the UK’s national league, representing Sunderland in the Five Nations Roller Derby Championships for the first time since 2018.

A skater intake programme starts on April 20 | Submitted

The team is now competing in Tier 3: North, battling other mixed-gender teams for a spot in the tournament’s play-offs.

Co-Captain Helen Lee, AKA Hells Bells, said: “One of the best things about this sport is how inclusive it is.

“You don’t have to be super fit, you can be great at it no matter your age, shape, or size. It’s a sport known for being really welcoming and open-minded, despite how it can look from the outside! We want more people to have the chance to give it a go and to join this brilliant community.

“That’s what these new skater programmes are all about; giving people a space to learn, build confidence, and find something new to get excited about.”

The new skater sessions will take place from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm, every Monday for eight weeks, beginning 20th April and finishing 22nd June (excluding bank holidays).

The course costs £40 for eight sessions, with free equipment available to borrow if needed.

More information and the sign-up form can be found here.