Memphis Parks Proposes Moving Roller Derby Venue
Officials suggest relocating the league to Davis Community Center as the city reviews a potential lease for the Pipkin Building.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Tennis
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Memphis Parks has proposed moving Memphis Roller Derby practices and bouts to new venues, including the Davis Community Center. The plan aligns with potential changes for the Pipkin Building, which the City Council may soon lease to Bluff City Pickleball.
Why it matters
The proposed shift aims to increase community activation and exposure for the roller derby league within local city facilities. Meanwhile, the council's decision on the Pipkin Building will determine the future of the space currently serving as the league's home.
The annual rental rate for practices at the Davis Community Center is $31,500 unsubsidized and $9,000 subsidized, compared to the $12,906 the league currently pays for four bouts at the Pipkin Building.
The players
Memphis Parks
This city agency manages public recreational facilities and coordinates venue assignments for local sports organizations.
Memphis Roller Derby
This local sports organization currently utilizes the Pipkin Building for their league activities and bouts.
Memphis City Council
The local governing body holds the authority to approve or deny the proposed lease of city-owned buildings to private or athletic entities.
Bluff City Pickleball
This entity is the prospective tenant seeking to lease the Pipkin Building from the city.
The details
Memphis Parks has requested that the league host scrimmages at proposed sites to evaluate their suitability for future use. Potential venues for competitive bouts include the Gaston Community Center and the Memphis Sports and Events Center, where unsubsidized rates reach $20,780.
Timeline
Tuesday: The City Council is scheduled to vote on the lease agreement for the Pipkin Building.
Season Trajectory
This transition forces a reassessment of where local leagues operate, mirroring a broader trend of repurposing city buildings for high-growth sports like pickleball. The relocation could fundamentally alter the league's home-court advantage and logistical planning for the upcoming season.
The league must now determine if the move to a community-centric venue aligns with their long-term operational budget and scheduling requirements. With current contracts unsigned, the team's ability to finalize their season schedule depends on the outcome of Tuesday's council vote.
The takeaway
Venue shifts often require leagues to adapt to new logistical layouts and increased costs compared to historical arrangements. Organizations should evaluate whether the new facilities meet their technical requirements for competitive play before finalizing long-term usage agreements.
Further reading
For updates on local sporting venue developments, visit Tennis.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Memphis Flyer.
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