October 26, 2012
As previously announced, a new WFTDA rule set will go into effect Jan. 1, 2013. The updated rules document will be publicly released in mid-November, to allow all users of WFTDA rules ample time to get familiar with the rules changes before they are used in WFTDA-sanctioned bouts.
This release aims to make WFTDA rules more universally accessible to all flat track roller derby competitors. For the first time, the rules will use gender-neutral language to be inclusive of all flat track roller derby skaters. The WFTDA will also be releasing a Men’s Roller Derby Association-branded version of the rules, for use by the MRDA community. In addition, the WFTDA will be releasing official rules translations in several languages during 2013. A German translation is anticipated in January, followed by French and Spanish in the first half of 2013.
Because the 2013 rules incorporate significant rules changes, as adopted by WFTDA member leagues, there will be a public feedback period for all users of the WFTDA rule set. Skaters, officials and fans who participate in or watch bouts using the 2013 WFTDA rules will have a place to provide feedback directly to the WFTDA, and the information gathered during this process will allow the WFTDA to understand the impact and playability of the new rules. This feedback will inform future development of the WFTDA rules and standard practices.
Major changes in this rule set include the elimination of the “minor penalty” category of the penalty impact spectrum and a change to jam starts, releasing both blockers and jammers on the same whistle. The updated rules will also include other, more routine changes accepted during the rules revision process.
The new rules will be available on wftda.com by mid-November. The pocket-sized rule books will be published and available in the wftda.com store in early 2013. New WFTDA Officiating Manuals will be available in spring 2013, prior to the summer clinic season. Stay tuned for some exciting details on the iOS WFTDA rules app update, to be announced in the coming weeks!
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