At its core, roller derby is about more than just competition — it’s about empowerment. We believe in creating a space where individuals can challenge themselves, discover their strength, and take pride in their growth, both physically and mentally.

Our training programs are designed to foster confidence, encourage self-discipline, and celebrate each person’s unique strengths. Whether someone joins us as a first-time skater, a volunteer, a referee, or a fan, they become part of a supportive and driven community that thrives on mutual respect and collective progress.

Roller derby is a high-speed, full-contact sport that demands a powerful combination of physical fitness, mental focus, and tactical execution. At MRR, we take pride in cultivating strong, skilled athletes who are not only fearless competitors, but also collaborative teammates and thoughtful leaders.

We train hard. We play harder. And through it all, we never lose sight of our commitment to fair play, safety, and sportsmanship. As members of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA), we follow internationally recognized standards for training, officiating, and competition — ensuring our skaters can compete with integrity and confidence, anywhere in the world.

While the action happens on the track, our impact extends far beyond it. The Muddy River Rollers are deeply rooted in the Moncton community and the broader Atlantic region. We participate in local events, collaborate with nonprofits, and work to create positive change through advocacy, outreach, and fundraising.

We are proud to be a league that gives back. Whether we’re skating in a Pride parade, or raising funds for regional charities, we aim to reflect the same unity and determination off the track that we bring into every bout.

The Muddy River Rollers are committed to being an inclusive and affirming space for all people — regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, or background. Roller derby has long been a sport rooted in resistance, resilience, and self-expression, and we carry that legacy forward proudly.

Our league supports diverse voices, safe spaces, and accessible opportunities for involvement at every level. Whether you’re here to skate, ref, coach, cheer, or volunteer, we want you to feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

Being part of MRR means more than just showing up — it means stepping up. Our league is skater-run and volunteer-powered, giving members the chance to lead, organize, and grow in all areas of operations. From governance and recruitment to coaching and bout production, we develop leaders who contribute not only to the sport, but to the broader community.

We believe leadership doesn’t require a title — it requires trust, vision, and a willingness to lift others as you rise. At MRR, every skater has a voice, and every voice matters.

As we move forward, our mission remains clear: to promote the sport of roller derby in Atlantic Canada while continuing to build a strong, inclusive, and empowering community. We’re here to inspire, educate, compete, and connect — to represent Moncton with pride and to leave every track stronger than we found it.

We’re always learning, always growing, and always rolling forward.

So whether you’re a future teammate, a curious fan, or someone who’s just discovering derby for the first time — welcome to the Muddy River Rollers.

Let’s skate.

By 2011, the Muddy River Rollers were ready to compete. Their first public bouts brought in curious spectators, enthusiastic supporters, and growing local media attention. One of their earliest matches — an away bout against the Halifax Roller Derby Association — drew a capacity crowd of over 800 fans, cementing MRR’s place in the spotlight and signaling that roller derby had truly arrived in New Brunswick.

These early bouts were more than just competitions; they were statements. MRR wasn’t just here to play — they were here to grow, to win, and to build something lasting.

In September 2012, just two years after its founding, MRR competed in the Roller Derby Association of Canada’s first Atlantic Canada Roller Derby Championship. Facing off against some of the region’s strongest teams, MRR emerged victorious — defeating the Fog City Rollers and earning the championship title. This win not only brought the league regional recognition but also qualified them for the national stage.

That championship marked a major turning point. MRR was no longer the “new league on the block.” They had earned their place among the most competitive roller derby teams in Eastern Canada.

In April 2013, the Muddy River Rollers were accepted into the WFTDA Apprentice Program — a significant step toward international recognition. As part of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association, leagues gain access to a global network of teams, standardized rules, and competitive rankings.

After more than a year of development, mentorship, and organizational growth, MRR achieved full WFTDA membership in October 2014. This milestone put Moncton firmly on the international derby map, and allowed MRR to compete at a higher level against elite teams across North America.

In May 2015, MRR received their first official WFTDA ranking, debuting at #99 — a proud moment that reflected years of hard work, countless practices, and an unshakable team spirit. Joining a global network of high-performing teams and gaining access to sanctioned gameplay and international rankings.

As MRR’s reputation grew, so did the league itself. What began as a single team evolved into a multi-tiered organization with structured training programs, leadership committees, and an expanded roster of skaters, referees, and volunteers.

Today, the Muddy River Rollers are home to three teams:

• The LumberSmacks – Our A-level travel team, representing the league at high-stakes regional and national competitions.

• The Axe Kickers – Our B-level team, packed with rising talent and a hunger for growth.

• Atlantic Roller Derby – An elite all-star team made up of top skaters from leagues across Atlantic Canada, formed to unite and showcase the very best of the region.

Each of these teams represents a unique layer of the MRR story — a blend of development, leadership, and fierce competition.

While the Muddy River Rollers have grown as athletes and competitors, they’ve never lost sight of their community roots. From day one, the league has prioritized local engagement — hosting fundraisers, supporting charities, and collaborating with other grassroots organizations throughout the region.

MRR skaters have marched in Pride parades, volunteered for local shelters, and organized events to raise awareness around women in sport, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and youth empowerment.

For MRR, success isn’t just measured in points on the scoreboard. It’s measured in community connections, personal growth, and the number of people who’ve found confidence, purpose, and friendship through the league.

As the Muddy River Rollers reflect on more than a decade of hard hits, high-fives, and halftime pep talks, one thing is clear: the journey is just getting started. From that first practice in 2010 to ranking on the international stage, MRR has proven that a small league with big dreams can make a serious impact.

The future holds even more: new skaters, new fans, new championships, and new opportunities to inspire the next generation of derby athletes.

We skate for the love of the game.
We skate for each other.
We skate for Moncton.
And we’re not slowing down any time soon.

Acknowledgement alone is not enough. We urge our community to move beyond words and into action and awareness. Below are some starting points for learning, reflection, and support:

• Learn about the Treaties of Peace and Friendship and how they continue to shape relationships today.

• Explore Indigenous-led organizations such as:

  • Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative (L’nuwey Tplutaqan)

  • Wabanaki Council on Disability

  • Indigenous Women’s Association of the Maritimes