ERNA's new home of netball - official name released!

ERNA is excited to announce that the name of our new home of netball has been announced in the March edition of the School Infrastructure project update - The Bennelong Sports Centre!

Netball Rules 101: A Beginner’s Guide to the Game

If you’re new to netball, the game can look fast-paced and a little confusing at first. Whether you’re a parent watching your child play for the first time or a player just starting out, understanding the basic rules can make the game much more enjoyable.

Here’s a simple guide to the key rules of netball.

The Objective of Netball

The aim of netball is simple: score more goals than the opposing team.

Teams move the ball down the court by passing it between players until it reaches the shooting circle. Only specific players are allowed to shoot for goal, and each successful shot scores one point.

How Many Players Are on a Team?

Each team has seven players on the court, each with a specific position:

• Goal Shooter (GS)

• Goal Attack (GA)

• Wing Attack (WA)

• Centre (C)

• Wing Defence (WD)

• Goal Defence (GD)

• Goal Keeper (GK)

Each position is restricted to certain areas of the court, which helps create structure and teamwork within the game.

The Netball Court

A netball court is divided into three sections:

1. Defensive third

2. Centre third

3. Attacking third

At each end of the court is a shooting circle, where goals are attempted.

Starting the Game

The game begins with a centre pass, taken by the Centre in the middle of the court. Teams alternate centre passes after each goal is scored.

During a centre pass:

• Players must start in their designated areas

• The ball must be passed into the centre third before moving down the court

The Three Second Rule

When a player catches the ball, they have three seconds to pass it to a teammate or attempt a shot (if they are in a shooting position).

This rule keeps the game moving quickly and encourages fast decision-making.

Footwork Rule

Netball players cannot run with the ball. Once a player lands after catching it, they must keep one foot grounded as their pivot foot.

The pivot foot cannot be lifted and placed down again before the ball is passed or shot.

Defending in Netball

Defenders must stand at least 0.9 metres (3 feet) away from the player with the ball when attempting to block a pass or shot.

If a defender stands closer than this distance, it results in a penalty pass or shot for the attacking team.

Scoring Goals

Only two positions are allowed to score goals:

• Goal Shooter (GS)

• Goal Attack (GA)

Shots must be taken inside the shooting circle, and each successful goal is worth one point.

Game Duration

Most netball games are played over four quarters, with short breaks in between. The exact length of each quarter can vary depending on the competition and age group.

Junior competitions may have shorter quarters to suit younger players.

Why Netball Is a Great Sport for Beginners

Netball is a fantastic sport for children because it focuses on:

• Teamwork

• Communication

• Coordination and agility

• Building confidence through sport

Players of all abilities can enjoy the game while developing skills and making new friends.

Playing Netball in Ryde

Families looking to get involved in netball can join a local club through the Eastwood Ryde Netball Association, which runs competitions and development opportunities for junior and senior players in the Ryde area.

Whether you’re brand new to the sport or looking to improve your skills, netball is a fun and welcoming game for players of all ages.

Best Kids Sports in Ryde: Why Netball Is a Great Choice

If you’re a parent in the Ryde area looking for a sport for your child, there are many great options available. Team sports help children stay active, build confidence and develop social skills while having fun with friends.

Among the many activities available to young athletes, netball continues to be one of the most popular and rewarding sports for kids.

Why Team Sports Are Important for Kids

Participating in sport offers many benefits for children beyond physical fitness. Being part of a team helps kids develop valuable life skills such as communication, resilience and teamwork.

Regular sport can help children:

• Build confidence and self-esteem

• Develop coordination and fitness

• Learn teamwork and sportsmanship

• Make new friends and feel part of a community

Finding the right sport is about choosing an activity that keeps kids engaged and excited to participate each week.

Why Netball Is a Great Sport for Kids

Netball is a fantastic sport for children because it combines physical activity, teamwork and skill development in a supportive environment.

Some of the reasons families choose netball include:

Easy to Learn

Netball has simple rules and structured positions, making it easy for beginners to pick up the game. Young players quickly learn the basics of passing, catching and moving around the court.

A True Team Sport

Netball encourages teamwork, communication and cooperation. Every position on the court plays an important role, helping players understand how working together leads to success.

Suitable for All Skill Levels

Whether a child is new to sport or already active, netball offers opportunities for players of all abilities to develop their skills and confidence.

Builds Physical Skills

Playing netball helps children develop coordination, balance and agility while improving their overall fitness.

A Strong Community Environment

Netball is well known for its supportive and inclusive community. Many players form lifelong friendships through their teams and clubs.

Netball Opportunities for Kids in Ryde

Families in the Ryde area have the opportunity to participate in junior netball competitions run by the Eastwood Ryde Netball Association.

These competitions provide a welcoming environment where children can learn the game, develop their skills and enjoy being part of a team. Players typically join through a local club and take part in weekly games during the season.

For many children, netball becomes a regular highlight of the week as they train, compete and grow alongside their teammates.

Finding the Right Sport for Your Child

Every child is different, and the best sport is one that keeps them active, engaged and enjoying the experience. Netball offers a balance of fun, skill development and teamwork that makes it an excellent choice for many young athletes.

For families looking for kids sport in the Ryde area, netball provides a great opportunity for children to build confidence, stay active and become part of a supportive community.

To learn more about local competitions and how to get involved, families can explore clubs and programs through the Eastwood Ryde Netball Association.