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How to Play Netball

Netball, a beloved team sport, has long held a special place in the hearts of players and enthusiasts across the United Kingdom. With its roots deeply embedded in British sports culture, netball combines athleticism, strategy, and teamwork in a unique and exhilarating manner. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of how to play netball, from the fundamentals to advanced strategies.


Understanding the game of netball is not just about mastering the court and the rules; it's about embracing the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and sportsmanship that makes this sport truly special. As you embark on your journey to become a netball player, or if you're already one looking to sharpen your skills, this article will serve as your trusted companion.



Girl playing netball


How to Play Netball

The Basic rules and goals

Netball is a dynamic team game where two teams aim to score goals by shooting a ball through their opponent's hoop. Players are divided into specific positions, each with distinct roles and responsibilities on the court. The game is played on a well-marked rectangular court, and adherence to the rules of footwork and ball possession is paramount. Speed, agility, and strategic thinking are essential qualities for success in netball. Whether you're a shooter, defender, or midcourter, mastering passing, shooting, and defensive skills, as well as staying attuned to the ever-changing flow of the game, are crucial.

In this guide, we'll break down the fundamentals of netball, from court dimensions to player positions and game rules, equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in this exciting sport.


Roles and Positions

In netball, each team consists of seven players on the court at any given time. These players are strategically positioned to carry out specific roles, emphasizing their unique strengths and skills.

  • Goal Shooter (GS): The primary shooter responsible for scoring goals.

  • Goal Attack (GA): A versatile player who both shoots and assists in scoring.

  • Wing Attack (WA): The playmaker who feeds the ball to shooters and assists in attack.

  • Centre (C): The pivot point of the team, responsible for the centre pass and linking attack and defense.

  • Wing Defence (WD): The player who marks the opposing team's wing attack and helps in defense.

  • Goal Defence (GD): Focuses on marking the opposing team's goal attack and creating turnovers.

  • Goal Keeper (GK): The last line of defense, responsible for preventing goals and creating opportunities for turnovers.

Each player's role is essential for their team's success. While the goal shooter and goal attack aim to score, the other positions work tirelessly to support them and thwart the opposing team's efforts. Understanding these roles and how they interact is crucial for any aspiring netball player.



Yellow netball court markings

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Netball Basics

Knowing how to play netball, a thrilling team sport, that shares some similarities with basketball but possesses its own distinct charm. It is a game that demands precision, teamwork, and strategic thinking. While it may seem similar to basketball, netball has unique rules and dynamics that set it apart.

In netball, two teams compete to score goals by shooting a ball through their opponent's hoop. Just like basketball, the team with the most goals at the end of the game wins. However, there are significant differences in how the game is played, from court size to player positions and rules.


Understanding the court layout is crucial for any aspiring netball player. Netball courts have specific dimensions, and accurate court markings are essential to ensure fair play. These markings guide players on where they can and cannot go during the game.

A standard netball court is 30.5 meters (100 feet) long and 15.25 meters (50 feet) wide. It is divided into thirds, with each team having their respective attacking and defensive thirds. The centre circle, where the game starts and restarts, is also a pivotal element of the court.


Sports Court markings

For those involved in the world of netball and sports court installations, our website provides a comprehensive selection of court markings designed to meet exacting standards. These offerings encompass a variety of court markings, from the essential shooting circle to goal third markings and the pivotal centre circle. These markings serve as the bedrock for players to establish their positions on the court, ensuring precise gameplay. It's worth emphasizing that these accurate court markings are far more than a mere requirement; they form the very basis of fostering fairness and competitiveness in netball and other sports played on these courts.



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