Austin has an unusually important place in modern roller derby history. The city’s early-2000s revival helped turn the sport into a contemporary, full-contact athletic competition with a distinctive DIY personality. Today, fans can watch two different local traditions: flat-track roller derby with the Texas Rollergirls and banked-track action with TXRD.
Texas Rollergirls: Flat-Track Roller Derby
The Texas Rollergirls formed in 2003 and helped establish the modern flat-track version of the sport. Flat track can be staged on relatively ordinary indoor surfaces, which made the model easier for leagues around the world to adopt.
The organization features local home teams including the Hell Marys, Honky Tonk Heartbreakers, Hotrod Honeys and Hustlers, along with travel teams that compete at higher levels. The league’s 2026 home-season finale took place in September at the Travis County Expo Center.
TXRD: Austin’s Banked-Track Roller Derby
TXRD traces its roots to Austin’s roller derby revival in 2001 and stages games on a banked track, which gives the action a visually different feel from flat-track derby. TXRD combines serious athletic competition with a theatrical, irreverent presentation.
The 2026 schedule featured bouts at the TXRD Thunderdome in Buda, Palmer Events Center and Travis County Expo Center, depending on the event. The Calvello Cup Championship is scheduled for November 7, 2026, at the Travis County Expo Center. Fans should confirm the venue for each individual bout instead of assuming every event happens in the same building.
What to Expect at a Bout
Roller derby is a contact sport in which skaters compete in groups while designated scorers, called jammers, attempt to pass opposing blockers. Expect quick momentum changes, physical play, team strategy and a crowd that is often highly involved in the action.
For a first bout, arrive before the opening whistle, read a basic rules explainer, and choose seats with a clear view of the whole track. The team introductions and between-period activities are often part of the entertainment.
Tickets and Getting Involved
Both organizations publish event schedules, ticket details and ways to support or join the sport. Opportunities may include officiating, volunteering, learning to skate and tryouts. Check age policies and venue guidelines before bringing younger children.
Official sites: Texas Rollergirls schedule and TXRD schedule and tickets.
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