Rules Of Netball
Netball Rules
Play in a game of netball begins in the center of the court. The two centers, one from each team, stand in the center circle facing one another as the umpire tosses the ball into the air between the two. The center winning the toss has first possession and begins the game. A whistle administered by the umpire signals the start of play, which is initiated by the center passing the ball. The center stands within the center circle and attempts passing the ball. The player who catches the ball has three seconds to put the ball back into play. Upon receiving the ball, the player must remain in the spot they are in, although some footwork is allowed; either landing one foot and pivoting on the other or remaining stable on both feet. The ball can also be bounced once to gain better control before making the next move. Depending upon the player’s position, the ball may be thrown to another player, progressing the ball down the court toward the goal, or attempting to shoot a goal if their position allows.
When passing the ball to another player, it may not bypass an entire third of the court without being touched or handled by another player. In other words, the ball is being passed through an assembly line of players who must be involved in play. Netball rules are specific regarding the process of the ball from the center to the goal shooter or goal attack, ensuring that all team members have the opportunity for play. Since players remain in specific areas through the game, there is a clear path from which to operate at all times. A standard distance must be maintained between players at all times. No direct physical contact is allowed that will impede the progress of the play.
Netball rules allow for five different types of penalties: free throw, penalty pass, penalty pass or shot, throw in and toss up. Infractions such as offside, breaking at the center pass, violation of passing distance, over a third or footwork breach will be penalized as a minor infringement resulting in a free throw awarded to the other team. Obstructing a player, intimidation or contact with another player is considered to be a major infringement, with a penalty pass awarded from the point the infringement occurred. “Throw in” is used when the ball leaves the designated court, and “toss up” is utilized when infringements simultaneously occur.
The game of netball can be considered almost a cross between basketball and soccer. Highly popular in countries such as Australia, Singapore, England, New Zealand, Canada and more as a women’s sport, it is now gaining great acclaim as a men’s sport as well. Its role as an Olympic sport has brought much more awareness for the game, and has piqued the interest of girls and boys across the country who are seeking a sport to fit their abilities. Netball has been adapted to meet the needs and abilities of the young children who are interested in becoming involved with the sport, with two less intense versions developed. Fun Net is a no-pressure game designed for children between 5 and 7 and concentrates on coordination, balance and development of overall motor skills while also encouraging individual participation working within a team. A bridge between Fun Net and adult netball is provided by the game Netta, ideal for kids between 7 and 11. Still focusing on the fun of the game, positions are also rotated to give the experience of each and stronger emphasis is placed on the correct throwing and catching skills.
It is anticipated that more and more people will become familiar with netball rules, as the game gains popularity across the world.