Finding a local netball club

If you or your child is interested in playing netball, joining a local club is the best way to get started. Netball is one of the most popular team sports for girls, young athletes and females across Australia, and families in the Ryde area have many opportunities to get involved.

Step 1: Find a Local Netball Club

The first step is to find a club that competes within the Eastwood Ryde Netball Association competition. ERNA includes a number of community clubs located across Ryde and surrounding suburbs.

Clubs welcome players of all experience levels, from beginners through to more competitive teams.

Step 2: Choose the Right Age Group

Netball competitions are generally organised by age groups so players can develop alongside others of a similar age and ability.

Most clubs offer:

• Junior teams for primary school aged players

• Intermediate teams for early high school

• Senior teams for older players and adults

If you’re unsure which team is right for you or your child, clubs are always happy to help guide you.

Step 3: Register for the Season

Registration usually takes place online before the season begins. Once registered, players will be placed into a team and provided with information about training sessions and game schedules.

Competitions run weekly during the season, with games played at West Ryde.

Step 4: Attend Training and Game Day

After joining a team, players will attend regular training sessions to develop skills and prepare for games. Training is also a great way for kids to build friendships and become part of their club community.

Game day is the highlight of the week for many players, where teams come together to compete and have fun.

A Welcoming Community Sport

Netball is known for being inclusive and community-focused. Whether you or your child wants to play competitively or simply enjoy being active with friends, being social off the court, joining a local club is a great way to start their netball journey.

If you are looking to get involved can visit the ERNA website to explore local clubs and upcoming registration opportunities.

10 Skills Every Junior Netball Player Should Learn

Netball is a fast-paced team sport that requires a combination of physical skills, teamwork and quick decision-making. For junior players, learning the fundamentals early helps build confidence and create a strong foundation for future development.

Here are ten key skills every junior netball player should work on.

1. Catching the Ball

Catching is one of the most important skills in netball. Players should practise catching with both hands while keeping their eyes on the ball.

2. Accurate Passing

Netball relies heavily on passing rather than dribbling. Players should learn different types of passes, including chest passes, bounce passes and shoulder passes.

3. Footwork

Understanding the footwork rule is essential in netball. Players need to learn how to land correctly and use a pivot foot to change direction without stepping.

4. Movement and Dodging

Quick movement helps players create space and receive passes. Dodging and changing direction quickly are key skills in attacking play.

5. Shooting Technique

For players in shooting positions, learning proper shooting technique helps improve accuracy and confidence in the circle.

6. Defensive Positioning

Defenders need to learn how to position themselves between the ball and their opponent to make interceptions and apply pressure.

7. Court Awareness

Good players develop an understanding of where teammates and opponents are on the court, helping them make smarter decisions with the ball.

8. Communication

Talking on the court is an important part of teamwork. Calling for the ball and communicating with teammates helps teams move the ball more effectively.

9. Fitness and Agility

Netball requires players to move quickly across the court. Developing agility, speed and endurance helps players perform at their best.

10. Teamwork

Perhaps the most important skill of all is teamwork. Netball is a true team sport where success comes from working together and supporting teammates.

Developing Skills Through Netball

Junior players build these skills through regular training, games and development opportunities offered by local clubs.

Competitions run by the Eastwood Ryde Netball Association provide a supportive environment where players can improve their skills, gain confidence and enjoy being part of a team. FIND A CLUB TODAY!

With practice and encouragement, young players quickly develop both their netball abilities and a lifelong love of the sport.

2026 ERNA District Carnival

ERNA welcomes all Development and Representative players from Associations within NSW to join us for our district carnival at our new home of netball!

Carnival Date: Sunday 31st May 2026

Closing date for entries is Sunday 10^th May.

Entry is via PlayHQ link HERE

Each team is required to supply -

• One scorer

• One umpire capable of officiating at this level.  Umpires must wear white.

A qualified sports physiotherapist will be in attendance on the day.

No injury time will be played and no disputes will be entered into.

Food and refreshment options will be advised closer to the time.

Car parking and off-street parking are available at the venue. Bus parking will be offsite (further details TBC)