Netball Rules, a quick guide!
The rules of netball are designed to ensure fair play and safety for all players. Here is a list of some of the key rules in netball:
Team Composition: Each team consists of seven players. The positions are Goal Shooter (GS), Goal Attack (GA), Wing Attack (WA), Centre (C), Wing Defence (WD), Goal Defence (GD), and Goal Keeper (GK).
Starting Play: The game starts with a center pass. The team that did not take the first center pass takes the next one after each goal is scored.
Offside Rule: Players must stay within their designated thirds of the court except for the two shooters (GS and GA) who can move within the shooting circle.
Passing: Players can move the ball up the court by passing. They must release the ball within three seconds of receiving it and cannot take steps while holding it.
Contact: Players cannot make physical contact with opponents or obstruct their movement. Contact results in a penalty pass or shot for the opposing team.
Footwork: Players cannot drag or pivot on one foot while holding the ball. They must either pass or shoot within three steps after catching the ball.
Out of Court: If the ball goes out of bounds, the team that did not touch it last gains possession via a throw-in from the sideline or a penalty pass from the backline.
Scoring: Goals are scored when the ball is successfully shot into the opponent's goal ring. Each goal counts as one point.
Defending: Defenders aim to intercept passes, block shots, and prevent the opposing team from scoring goals.
Umpires: Matches are officiated by two umpires who enforce the rules and make decisions on infringements and penalties.
Penalties: Penalties are awarded for rule violations and can result in a free pass, penalty pass, or penalty shot depending on the severity of the infringement.
Substitutions: Substitutions can be made during breaks in play with the permission of the umpire. Substituted players must enter and exit the court at the designated substitution area.
These are just some of the basic rules of netball. The sport has evolved over time, and there may be variations in rules depending on the level of play and the governing body.