Apprentice Program FAQs

Looking for more information about WFTDA's Apprentice Program?  Below you'll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

What does the Apprentice Program (AP) involve?

The Apprentice Program curriculum covers a wide range of topics that will help you keep your league healthy, sustainable, an active member of the WFTDA, and take full advantage of member benefits of such as insurance, ranking, game sanctioning, as well as the following:

  • Business and administration
  • WFTDA membership
  • Bouting and game play
  • Training and mentoring for league referees

Apprentices often join very early in their league formation, before they even have set internal policies or even incorporated legally. In those cases, the mentor can also help advise regarding the early decisions and step when forming a league.

How long does it take a league to complete the Apprentice Program?

There are no specific requirements for a timeline, minimum time on the program, or fast tracking. The idea is to leave flexibility for leagues at all different levels, to ensure that the Apprentice experience for a three-year-old established league is substantially different than that of an unincorporated group. Generally, the curriculum will take one year to get through. But it's conceivable that a very established league with a strong partner could go more quickly.

Does it matter if there is another league from my town/city/area that is already a member of the WFTDA or the Apprentice Program?

No. The WFTDA has no restriction on member or restrictions coming from the same city. The WFTDA currently has at least 3 major metro areas with more than one WFTDA member (Denver, Minneapolis/St. Paul, and Dallas/Ft. Worth) and one smaller metro area (Harrisburg/Lancaster, PA). There is also an Apprentice league that holds bouts less than 5 miles away from Windy City Rollers.

Can Apprentice Program leagues sign up for WFTDA insurance?

Yes, Apprentice Program leagues have the option to enroll in WFTDA's insurance plan. WFTDA insurance includes General Liability Coverage, Excess Liability Coverage, and Accidental Medical Coverage.

Can leagues play WFTDA sanctioned games while in the Apprentice Program?

No, AP leagues are not sanctioned. Many Apprentice leagues play games under the complete WFTDA rules and regulations, regardless.

Can Apprentice Program Leagues participate in WFTDA tournaments?

Apprentice Leagues are not eligible for “The Big Five” WFTDA-organized tournaments. However, Apprentice Leagues are eligible to participate in WFTDA Recognized Tournaments (for example, East Coast Extravaganza, Wild West Showdown, Midwest BrewHaHa).

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