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)

Returning to Netball After a Break: Getting Back on the Court

Life gets busy. Between school, work, family commitments and other activities, many players take a break from sport at some stage. The good news is that netball is a sport you can always come back to, whether you’ve been away for one season or several years.

For many players, returning to the court is a chance to reconnect with friends, rebuild fitness and rediscover the enjoyment of being part of a team.

Why Players Take a Break from Netball

There are many reasons players step away from the game for a period of time. Some of the most common include:

• School or study commitments

• Injury recovery

• Family responsibilities

• Work or travel

• Trying other sports or activities

Whatever the reason, taking a break doesn’t mean your netball journey is over.

Getting Back Into the Game

Returning to netball is easier than many players expect. Local clubs are always welcoming new and returning players, and there are opportunities for all levels of experience.

If you’re thinking about coming back to the sport, here are a few simple steps to get started.

Start Slowly

After time away, it’s important to ease back into physical activity. Begin with light training sessions or social games before returning to full competition.

Rebuild Your Fitness

Netball requires agility, strength and endurance. Incorporating some basic fitness training — such as jogging, stretching and agility drills — can help you feel more confident when you return to the court.

Focus on Skill Development

Passing, catching and footwork skills come back quickly with practice. Spending time at training sessions or informal practice can help refresh your technique.

Reconnect with the Community

One of the best parts of returning to netball is reconnecting with teammates and meeting new people. Community sport offers a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to enjoy the game.

Netball for All Ages and Experience Levels

Netball is a sport that can be played at many different levels, from social competitions to more competitive leagues. Whether you’re looking to play regularly or simply enjoy the occasional game, there is usually a team that suits your goals and availability.

Many players who return to the sport also become involved as coaches, umpires or volunteers, helping support the next generation of players.

Getting Back on Court in Ryde

If you’re thinking about returning to netball, the Eastwood Ryde Netball Association offers competitions and opportunities for players across a range of age groups and skill levels.

With welcoming clubs and a strong community spirit, returning players quickly feel part of the game again.

Sometimes all it takes is stepping back onto the court to remember why you loved netball in the first place.

FIND A CLUB TODAY