Reimagining Roller Derby: Resistance, Rebellion and Resilience
A Study of Sexual and Gender Diverse Populations in Roller Derby
The purpose of this study is to investigate the experiences of sexual and/or gender diverse (SGD) roller derby athletes who actively play on Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association (WFTDA), Men’s Roller Derby Association (MRDA) and/or borderless teams and the relationship between this participation and wellbeing.
We are interested in your motivations for and experiences participating in roller derby as a SGD athlete and how participation in roller derby can influence identity and wellbeing. Of particular interest are the experiences of gender diverse skaters. Our aim is that study findings can transcend roller derby and be applied in broader contexts (sport and beyond) to influence policy and practice specific to SGD populations.
Research Questions:
(1) What are the motivations for, and experiences of roller derby by SGD participants?
(2) How does participation in roller derby relate to identity, joy and resilience for SGD populations?
(3) How can findings transcend roller derby and be applied in broader contexts (sport and beyond) to influence policy and practice specific to SGD populations?
(4) What are the specific considerations for gender diverse athletes to better support participation and inclusion in sport?
🌟 Survey participants will be entered into a draw to win one of five $50 CAD gift cards (or local currency equivalent) 🌟
🌟All interview participants will receive a $25 gift card (or local currency equivalent) for participating in the interview.🌟
Honoraria
How the study works
Study Part A: Pre-screening Survey
The pre-screening survey aims to gather demographic information that confirms the identities and experiences of potential participants, thereby enabling the lead researcher to select a diverse sample. In addition to collecting demographic information, the survey will also describe the study procedures and informed consent process.
Study Part B: Qualitative Zoom Interview
The interview will be open to a sample of approximately 30 participants from diverse backgrounds who completed the prescreening survey and express interest in being interviewed. The interview will take place on Zoom. Participants will be asked to provide images and/or videos related to their experiences as a SGD person in roller derby to guide the interview. The interview will delve into individuals' experiences regarding their sexuality and/or gender identity within roller derby spaces, as well as the significance and effects of 2SLGBTQIA+ community and representation on overall wellbeing.
This study will be conducted in two parts: a pre-screening survey and a qualitative interview.
Who can participate
You are eligible to participate in this study if:
You identify as a sexual and/or gender diverse (2SLGBTQIA+) roller derby player (18+).
You currently play roller derby.
You have played a minimum of one roller derby season (minimum 3 sanctioned games) with a Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association team (WFTDA) or a Men’s Roller Derby Association (MRDA) team.
* You are also eligible to participate if you play on a borderless team (e.g., Team Indigenous Rising, Black Diaspora, Jewish Roller Derby) rather than a WFTDA or MRDA team.
You are eligible to participate in the qualitative interview if:
You complete part A of the study (the pre-screening survey).
You express interest in being interviewed.
You agree to provide images or videos related to your experiences as a SGD roller derby athlete.
If you meet the study requirements and wish to participate in this study, please proceed to the pre-screening survey.
About the researcher
Kaitrin Doll (they/them), also known as Big Poppa within the roller derby community, is currently pursuing their doctorate at the Factor Inwentash Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto. Their research focuses on sexual and gender diverse populations (SGD), and the various ways in which community membership, social support, connectedness, and mental wellness are interrelated. Kaitrin has a particular interest in exploring the experiences of trans and gender diverse people (TGD), and using insights gleaned from trans-affirming sports environments to inform policies and practices that support TGD inclusion and affirmation within and beyond sports. With over a decade of roller derby experience, including multiple years playing for different WFTDA charter teams in Canada, Kaitrin offers a distinct perspective to both their research and the sport.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like to sign up to receive study results please fill out the form below.
Images (skaters, helmets, track, skates) credited to Shannon Long
black & white roller derby graphic credited to Katie Sheedy
