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.