How is safety ensured during a roller derby match?

Safety during a roller derby match is primarily ensured through the use of proper protective gear. This gear includes helmets, mouthguards, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, and other equipment designed to absorb impact and protect players from injuries that can occur during the fast-paced, contact nature of the sport. The presence of this protective gear is crucial because it helps mitigate the risks associated with falls, collisions, and other accidents that can happen on the track.

The other options present approaches that would not effectively enhance safety in the sport. For example, prohibiting physical contact would compromise the essence of roller derby, which is a contact sport. Enforcing no penalties could lead to chaotic gameplay that increases the risk of injury, and having all players skate at the same speed is unrealistic given the dynamics of competition, where players have different skills and strategies. Thus, the emphasis on wearing proper protective gear is key to maintaining player safety and allowing the game to be played competitively while minimizing the likelihood of serious injuries.