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Netball is a fast-paced, non-contact sport where teams of 7 players compete to score the most goals while limiting their opponent’s ability to score. Defensive players must collaborate to disrupt the attacking team's flow by reducing their passing options and forcing mistakes to reclaim possession. As a defender, staying alert to the ball and predicting your opponent's movements are key to successful defense.
Key Defensive Steps
Position yourself side-on to the attacker, giving you a clear view of both the player and the ball simultaneously.
When attempting an interception, use your outer arm (the arm farthest from the attacker) to avoid making contact.
Ensure you 'push' your attacker wide, preventing them from getting close to the net by:
- Using your body to obstruct their movement
- Positioning yourself behind them with a straight posture
As a defender, your role is crucial, so staying alert is essential. Move on the balls of your feet, staying light on your toes, ready to adjust and react swiftly to any changes in the play.
Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, and your body weight should be evenly distributed on the balls of your feet.
When the opposing player is passing the ball, as a defender, you must maintain a one-meter (39.4 in) distance, keeping both arms raised and staying on your tiptoes to block their options.
As a GD or GK, when the shooter is preparing to shoot, position yourself one meter (39.4 in) away, with one or both arms raised to block the shot, depending on your height.
- If you're shorter, lean sideways with one arm stretched out to increase reach.
- Count to three seconds before jumping to block the shot.
- If you're taller, spread both your arms and legs while keeping your feet pointed towards the attacker; avoid touching the ball to prevent obstruction.
- While one defender marks the shot, the other should be ready to retrieve any rebounds.
Stay on your toes, remain fully aware of the game’s progress, and be ready for turnovers, as your team will rely on you when the opportunity arises.
Position yourself in a way that lets you quickly adjust to the flow of the game, using quick, agile steps to respond to shifts in the opponent's movements. This is achieved by constantly changing your speed and direction, especially when stepping away from the player you're marking. This approach not only makes you available for a pass to help your team but also tires out your opponent in the process.
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Always exercise patience with the attackers, even when they’re being aggressive. As the defender, you're more likely to be penalized for minor contact than the attacker.
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Avoid becoming complacent with the umpires, as they can influence the flow of the game. Always remember that the umpire's decision is final.
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Maintain an upright posture with your head up, focused on the play. Avoid slouching or leaning on the attacker, as it constitutes a violation.
This section's advice is based on the real-life experiences shared by Mytour readers like you. If you have a useful tip to contribute, feel free to submit it in the field below on Mytour.
- Always keep your body straight. Even if the shooter or GS is elbowing or pushing you, bending your back will result in a penalty. Standing tall ensures the shooter or GA gets penalized instead, granting your team a free pass.
- Always use your outer arm when attempting to block the ball’s path. This makes it easier to avoid contact.
- Use your arms to block the attacker, but be careful not to touch them, as even accidental contact counts as a violation.
