This story originally appeared in The Centre County Gazette.
If you thought roller derby was a thing of the past, think again.
Playing its home games at C3 Sports in College Township, the State College Area Roller Derby (SCAR Derby) league is not just alive and well, it’s charging full speed ahead, blending athleticism with community acceptance and inclusivity.
Grateful Shred took a break from the track to talk about the league’s mission, its skaters and the Betty Fund, a financial lifeline SCAR offers to help teammates keep rolling when times are tough.
“We’re an open gender league, so anyone can join,” she said. “A lot of people come in saying, ‘I’ve never worn roller skates in my life.’ That’s totally fine. We’ve got a training program for beginners, and we’ll get you geared up, no cost upfront.”
The pads, helmets, skates and guards that keep bruises to a minimum often come from donations or passed-down equipment from previous players. But when league dues or tournament costs become a challenge that’s where the Betty Fund steps in.
“The Betty Fund is there to make sure nobody gets left behind just because they can’t pay,” said Shred. “Whether it’s dues or something else, if someone’s struggling, we’ll help them out.”
More than a sports league, SCAR Derby is an all-volunteer operation fueled by passion and heart. No one’s getting paid to play, ref or staff the merch tables. Everyone chips in. That includes Shred’s boyfriend, who built and manages their livestream system so fans can watch bouts on YouTube.
“He definitely did that willingly,” she added, with a slight laugh. “We have skaters from all walks of life that come to be with us as well as our volunteers.”
Their teams range from the traveling SCAR All-Stars to the Casual Cryptids and interleague squads like the Nittany Nightmares and Happy Valley Hellbenders. Some players suit up for every team, some just one, but all are in it for the same reason: connection.
And let’s not forget the hits.
“It’s full contact. My first game, I was sore for days,” Shred laughed. “But at the end of the day, we’re still a family. We check in with each other, even in the middle of the game. That’s what it’s all about.”
Off the track, SCAR is just as active. They’ve raised money for food drives that help local food banks throughout Centre County, supported the LGBTQ+ community at Pride events and have been involved in major national tournaments for the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association. Through Centre Gives, they’ve made new connections with other local nonprofits and businesses, many of which they now hope to collaborate with.
SCAR’s next public home bout is likely to come in December.
“We don’t have the exact date locked in yet,” Shred said. “But we’ll definitely be doing our annual winter match in State College. It’s always a good time.”
Whether you want to skate, volunteer or just catch a game, SCAR Derby wants you to know there’s a place for you.
“I’d say my life only got better since joining roller derby,” Shred said. “You don’t need to be an athlete. You don’t need to be anything other than yourself.”
The team will be taking part in a tournament on Friday, June 6, in the Scranton area. For more info about that match or to get involved, visit scarderby.com, check out their YouTube channel at youtube.com/@scarderby5677 or email scarollerderby@gmail.com.
