Ever wondered who the gladiators of roller derby are?
From whirlwind jams to bone-crushing blocks, these icons skate past the limits of the sport.
Strap in as we roll out the ultimate roster of roller derby royalty.
Learn about the different roller derby positions and roles that define these athletes’ careers.
Best Roller Derby Players:
- Bonnie Thunders
- Suzy Hotrod
- Scald Eagle
- Lauren Mutch
- Jackie Daniels
- Gotham Girls Roller Derby (team)
- Rose City Rollers (team)
- Smarty Pants
- Rachel Rotten
- Stefanie Mainey
- Brawn Swanson
- Juke Boxx
- Mick Swagger
Table of Contents
#1 Bonnie Thunders
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: September 6, 1983
- 🛼 Position/Role: Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 5x WFTDA Champion with the Gotham Girls Roller Derby, Member of Team USA Roller Derby
Bonnie Thunders, born Nicole Williams, is widely regarded as one of the most talented and prolific jammers in roller derby history. Her agility, speed, and strategic gameplay have consistently put her at the top of the sport. Thunders has contributed to the Gotham Girls’ dominance in the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA), becoming an icon in the derby community.
Her legacy stretches beyond her impressive athletic achievements as she has been instrumental in advancing the sport. As a co-owner of a roller derby skate shop, Thunders has supported the growth of the roller derby community. Her commitment to the sport’s development and her entrepreneurial endeavors make her a significant figure both inside and outside the rink.
#2 Suzy Hotrod
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: Born in 1980
- 🛼 Position/Role: Jammer/Blocker
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Co-captain of the Gotham Girls Roller Derby, Member of Team USA Roller Derby, Featured in ESPN The Magazine’s “The Body Issue”
Suzy Hotrod, also known as Jean Schwarzwalder, embodies the dual threat of being both an agile jammer and a formidable blocker. Her versatile playing style and formidable presence on the track have made her a key player for the Gotham Girls. Suzy Hotrod is not just known for her athleticism but for her iconic presence, including being featured in mainstream media for her sport’s representation.
She has played a crucial role in popularizing roller derby and has become an ambassador for the sport, pushing it into the spotlight. Her crossover into media representation has contributed to the growing public interest in roller derby. Outside of derby, her contributions to the growth and visibility of the sport have made her a pillar of the roller derby community.
#3 Scald Eagle (Hillary Buscovick)
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: Born in 1988
- 🛼 Position/Role: Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Big O MVP, multiple-time WFTDA Championships participant
Scald Eagle, whose real name is Hillary Buscovick, is known for her powerful strides and dynamic jamming capability, making her a standout athlete in the roller derby world. Her physical strength and strategic acumen have won her fans and accolades alike. Notably, her performances in high-stakes championships demonstrate her ability to excel under pressure.
Outside of her impressive derby feats, Scald Eagle symbolizes the sport’s intense physicality and determination. She has been inspirational to aspiring athletes, showcasing that skill and dedication can lead to success. Her impact on the sport has been significant, inspiring new waves of players who emulate her style and vigor.
#4 Lauren Mutch
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: Born in 1993
- 🛼 Position/Role: Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: WFTDA Championships competitor with Rose City Rollers, MVP Awards
Lauren Much, known on the track as Lauren Mutch, has captured attention with her electrifying speed and athleticism. As a jammer, her maneuverability and knack for finding pathways through the pack have made her a vital asset to her team. Her contributions have helped propel the Rose City Rollers to notable achievements in competitive roller derby.
Her legacy is one marked by relentless improvement and intense competition. Mutch’s dedication to the sport and her team has been exemplary, with her performances inspiring both teammates and the next generation of derby players. Off the track, she remains a symbol of commitment and endurance in the high-energy world of roller derby.
#5 Jackie Daniels
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: Born in 1979
- 🛼 Position/Role: Blocker/Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: WFTDA Championships competitor, notable team leader, and strategist
Jackie Daniels stands as a true all-rounder with proficiencies as both a blocker and a jammer, embodying tactical versatility on the roller derby track. Her leadership skills and strategic mindset have garnered respect amongst her peers, paving the way for her teams’ successes over the years. Daniels’s robust defensive plays and capacity to adapt to various in-game situations illustrate her comprehensive understanding of the sport.
Aside from her prowess on the track, Jackie Daniels has contributed significantly to the roller derby community, offering guidance and mentorship to up-and-coming athletes. Her influence extends to her advocacy for athlete empowerment within the sport, emphasizing the importance of a strong and supportive roller derby culture.
#6 Gotham Girls Roller Derby (team)
- 🌍 Nationality: American (based in New York City)
- 🎂 Date of Birth: (Founded in 2003)
- 🛼 Position/Role: Roller Derby Team
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Multiple-time WFTDA Champions, renowned for their competitive excellence and community involvement
The Gotham Girls Roller Derby team has long been celebrated as a powerhouse in the sport, owing to their strategic gameplay, cohesive teamwork, and a history of dominant performances in the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association. Their professionalism and commitment to excellence have set standards within the roller derby community.
This legendary team has not only achieved success in competition but has actively fostered the growth of the sport through community outreach and support for new players. The Gotham Girls’ impact on roller derby is unparalleled, contributing to the establishment of a strong, vibrant culture that embodies athleticism and inclusivity.
#7 Rose City Rollers (team)
- 🌍 Nationality: American (based in Portland, Oregon)
- 🎂 Date of Birth: (Founded in 2004)
- 🛼 Position/Role: Roller Derby Team
- 🏆 Career Highlights: WFTDA Champions, recognized for their strategic plays and team cohesion
The Rose City Rollers have carved out a reputation as one of the most formidable teams in the roller derby world, consistently showcasing a blend of athleticism, strategy, and unity. Their rise to prominence in the WFTDA rankings is a testament to their unwavering focus and passion for the sport.
As pioneers, the Rose City Rollers have cultivated a supportive and competitive environment that has helped in the advancement of roller derby on an international scale. Their involvement in the community and ongoing efforts to promote the sport underline their dedication to expanding roller derby’s reach and influence.
#8 Smarty Pants (Nadia Kean)
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🛼 Position/Role: Blocker
- 🏆 Career Highlights: WFTDA Championships competitor, team captain, and experienced coach
Smarty Pants, also known as Sarah Hipel, is an esteemed figure in roller derby, recognized for her robust blocking skills, tactical intelligence, and leadership. Her approach to gameplay emphasizes teamwork and effective communication, establishing her as a pivotal player and a captain on the track.
Beyond her athletic talents, Smarty Pants has made her mark as a knowledgeable coach and mentor to fellow athletes. Her contributions to developing roller derby tactics and training have enriched the sport significantly. Avidly involved in the broader roller derby community, she focuses on the sport’s sustainable growth and the empowerment of athletes.
#9 Rachel Rotten
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: October 16, 1985
- 🛼 Position/Role: Blocker/Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Team member of Angel City(Top 5 team in the world)
Rachel Rotten, known for her tenacity on the track and steadfast presence in her team, is a celebrated name in roller derby circles. Her agile footwork and robust defensive strategies make her an invaluable player whose performances are often pivotal in her team’s victories.
Despite the physicality and potential for injury in roller derby, Rotten has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to the sport that inspires her teammates and fans alike. Her contributions to promoting the sport, along with her competitive spirit, have cemented her status as a role model within the roller derby community.
#10 Stefanie Mainey
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🛼 Position/Role: Blocker/Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: WFTDA Championships competitor with Minnesota Klas
Stefanie Mainey is known for her competitive edge and tactical prowess on the roller derby track. Her versatility as a player allows her to adeptly switch between offensive and defensive roles, making her an unpredictable and dynamic force during bouts.
Her dedication to the sport extends beyond personal performance as Mainey is recognized for her contributions to developing roller derby strategies and training methodologies. Her impact is seen not only in her commendable track record but also in her passion for advancing the sport and fostering a supportive environment for up-and-coming athletes.
#11 Brawn Swanson
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🛼 Position/Role: Blocker/Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: WFTDA Championships competitor with Mile High Club at Denver Roller Derby
A force to be reckoned with, Brawn Swanson strikes an imposing figure in the roller derby world. Swanson is often singled out for her strength and strategic blocking, making her a formidable opponent who can single-handedly alter the flow of a game.
Her excellence on the track is matched by her dedication off it, where she engages in training and mentoring younger players. Brawn Swanson’s influence on the sport extends to her advocacy for athlete’s rights and safety, ensuring the enduring integrity and growth of roller derby.
#12 Juke Boxx
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🛼 Position/Role: Blocker/Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: WFTDA Championships competitor with Minnesota Roller Derby
Juke Boxx’s name resonates with agility and finesse as she skillfully navigates the track, evading blockers with her signature moves. Her ability to juke, a maneuver that outwits opponents, is embedded in her moniker and her game-play, making her an audience favorite for her smooth and crafty style.
While her performance is undeniably impactful, it is her leadership and positive attitude that make Juke Boxx a pillar in the roller derby community. She embodies the sport’s spirit, fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship, and is regarded as an ambassador for roller derby’s empowering and inclusive culture.
#13 Mick Swagger
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🛼 Position/Role: Blocker/Jammer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: WFTDA Champs several times
Mick Swagger stands out as one of roller derby’s most iconic players, armed with a blend of tactical brilliance and natural athleticism. Her skill in reading the game and executing plays with precision has earned her the respect of peers and the adulation of fans. Swagger’s presence on the track is as influential as it is formidable, characterizing her as a central figure in key matches and tournaments.
Her impact reaches beyond the rink as Mick Swagger engages in coaching and advocacy work. By promoting sportsmanship, self-confidence, and a competitive spirit, she has made significant contributions to shaping the ethos of modern roller derby and empowering its participants worldwide.
To better understand how these legendary players excelled in their roles, check out our detailed guide on the different positions in roller derby.
FAQ
Who is the best Roller Derby player of all time?
Bonnie Thunders is the best Roller Derby player of all time. Here’s a link to our article on why we think Bonnie Thunders is the best Roller Derby player of all time. Her agility, skill, and strategic game play set her apart.
Who are the top 10 greatest Roller Derby players of all time?
Bonnie Thunders, Suzy Hotrod, Scald Eagle, Lauren Mutch, Jackie Daniels, Gotham Girls Roller Derby (team), Rose City Rollers (team), Smarty Pants, Rachel Rotten, and Stefanie Mainey are the top 10 greatest Roller Derby players of all time. Each has made significant contributions to the sport’s evolution and popularity.
Who is the most famous female Roller Derby player?
Bonnie Thunders is the most famous female Roller Derby player. Her incredible talent and leadership in the sport have made her a recognizable figure and role model for aspiring players.
