The league was founded in April 2010 by three skaters associated with
Santa Cruz Roller Derby but living in Monterey, who wanted to play for a more local league. It played its first bout in February 2011, attracting more than 500 fans. Local famous author
John Steinbeck and his writing influenced the league's team names. In July 2011, Monterey Bay was accepted as an
apprentice member of the Women's Flat Track Derby Association. In December 2013, the league was accepted as a full member WFTDA league. Monterey Bay Derby Dames changed their name to Monterey Bay Roller Derby in 2019. Their home rink, Water City, closed during the
COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns. Former teams include Babes of Wrath, Steinwreckers and the Dread Ponies (
junior). According to California Derby Galaxy, MBRD will compete in the Quasars division for the 2023 season. ==WFTDA rankings==