Is a penalty assessed to a White Jammer who contacts the buttocks of Red Blockers with their knee but does not pass or knock down any Red Blockers?

In roller derby, the rules are designed to promote safety and fair play. When a jammer makes contact with any part of an opponent using their body, particularly in a manner that could be considered dangerous or unfair, a penalty may be assessed.

In this scenario, the White Jammer contacts the buttocks of Red Blockers with their knee, which is an example of using a part of their body in a way that is likely to be deemed inappropriate. Even though the jammer does not pass or knock down any Red Blockers, the contact itself is significant enough to warrant a penalty. This is consistent with the rules that aim to discourage unsafe play and protect all players on the track, as contact to the back area with a knee can create potential risks for injury.

The function of the rules is to maintain a level of safety and sportsmanship, so any actions that compromise those principles can lead to penalties, regardless of the outcome of passing or knocking down any players. This is why the answer indicates that a penalty would indeed be assessed in this situation.