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Looking to enhance your netball skills? You're in luck—this exciting and easy-to-learn sport can be practiced nearly anywhere. Continue reading for helpful advice, techniques, and insights on how to become an even better netball player.
Steps to Follow
Incorporate more physical activity into your routine.
Aim for at least thirty minutes of walking each day. If you're at school, consider joining any available sports teams or activities to get more opportunities for exercise with others. The more active you are, the better your fitness will be. Being able to run long distances and maintain agility is crucial for excelling in a netball game.
Work on your skills with a partner or coach.
It's crucial to practice key skills such as throwing, catching, defending, and attacking. Make sure you have these fundamental abilities down pat.
Understand the game.
Familiarize yourself with positions, offsides, and the rules thoroughly. Read books or explore online resources about netball to deepen your knowledge of the game.
Consider joining a netball club if you haven't already.
It's an excellent opportunity to gain deeper insights into the game from a coach.
Don't hesitate to ask your coach or friends for clarification on the game.
Avoid asking overly difficult questions. Also, be sure not to pressure them, and instead ask when they have time or when the topic naturally arises.
Watch professional netball matches.
Watching a netball game helps you visualize the game better. This can improve your own performance. Whether the game is on TV or at school, always make time to watch when a match is happening.
As your confidence grows, try experimenting with different positions in the game.
There are plenty of positions to explore. You may discover that you enjoy some new roles more than the ones you initially tried. Remember, the main goal is to have fun, play safely, show good sportsmanship, and above all, be confident—practice makes progress!
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Avoid distractions during games and training sessions.
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Stay consistent with regular running sessions to build endurance over time.
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Gradually extend the length of your runs, beginning with 10 minutes and adding more time with each session.
The tips shared here come from the real-life experiences of Mytour readers like you. If you have a useful suggestion to contribute to Mytour, feel free to share it in the submission field below.
- Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the rules, positions, and both offensive and defensive strategies in netball. Read books, articles, and watch video breakdowns to enhance your understanding. Knowing the full scope of the game, not just your own role, helps you predict plays and make more informed decisions. Also, don't hesitate to ask your coach for clarification on anything you're unsure of during practice.
- For precise shooting technique, use the "BEEFF" method — Bend your knees deeply to lower your center of gravity, Eyes fixed on the ring, Elbows at a sharp angle, Feet shoulder-width apart for stability, and Flick your wrists sharply to direct the ball. Mastering this technique takes repetition but will result in better shooting accuracy. Get a teammate to pass to you while you practice.
- As a defender, stay close to the offensive player you're guarding, predicting their moves. Be ready to switch positions quickly as they change direction or screen. This "right on their hip" strategy allows you to intercept passes and block shots. Developing this skill requires mental sharpness and quick reflexes.
- Avoid comparing your skills to others, as it can harm your confidence. Instead, focus on your own improvement with a positive mindset. Identify areas for growth while also recognizing your strengths. Seek feedback from coaches to enhance your game. Believing in your own abilities is more beneficial than comparing yourself to others.
- Boost your cardiovascular fitness by including regular cardio exercises like running, swimming, or cycling in your routine. The better your stamina, the longer you can perform at your best during intense netball matches without feeling exhausted. Aim for at least 30 minutes of cardio daily if possible.
- Stay vigilant about staying hydrated during practices and matches by always keeping water handy. Drink water regularly, not just when you're thirsty, because dehydration can negatively impact your energy, concentration, and performance. Proper hydration ensures your muscles work efficiently and recover faster after physical exertion.
Important Reminders
- Never argue with the umpire.
- If someone is cheating, inform your coach before approaching the umpire.
- If you accidentally injure someone during the game, don't hold back—apologize and move on.
