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The Hudson Valley Horrors (HVHRD), the world’s first non-urban flat track roller derby team have recently been accepted into The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association’s (WFTDA) apprentice program.

WFTDA is an association of women’s flat track roller derby leagues in the United States that “promotes and fosters the sport of women’s flat track roller derby by facilitating the development of athletic ability, sportsmanship, and goodwill among member leagues.”

Since its inception, WFTDA has grown into the governing body by which flat track roller derby teams base their rules, regulations and requirements on. In 2009, WFTDA launched its apprentice program to put non-WFTDA leagues on the fast track to becoming members. According to WFTDA, the apprentice program “will match new leagues with an established WFTDA mentor, who will guide her apprentice through the processes and requirements necessary to becoming a full member. In addition, the mentor will offer advice and encouragement about league-specific issues, including everything from league formation (startup leagues) to how to become ranked and qualify for tournaments (veteran leagues).”

HVHRD has grown as a league since its early stages in 2006 when, as a small league, only competed with non-WFTDA sanctioned teams. The apprentice program will give- HVHRD the edge and knowledge it needs to apply for full WFTDA membership, thusly providing more opportunities to compete and grow as a professional and athletic group of skaters.

Formed in 2004, the WFTDA is comprised of 78 full members and 24 Apprentice Program participants. HVHRD is honored to have been accepted and looks forward to a successful 2010 season under WFTDA’s guidance.