Netball

The current standing of ANZ Premiership teams in New Zealand in 2024 is as follows:

1. Northern Mystics W
2. Central Pulse W
3. Northern Stars W
4. Mainland Tactix W
5. Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic W
6. Southern Steel W

Netball is played with specific rules to ensure fair play, safety, and an enjoyable experience for all participants. These include team compositions of seven players, the game duration (four quarters, each lasting 15 minutes), the starting play, scoring through an opponent’s net, and the offside rule where only two players from each team are allowed in the shooting circle during offensive play. Physical contact between players is also not allowed, as it is a non-contact sport. If a player makes contact with another player and disrupts play, then a ‘penalty pass’ is awarded to the opposing team.

TRADITIONAL PLAYING POSITIONS:

A netball team consists of seven players, each with specific positions and roles on the court. These positions include the Goal Shooter, Goal Attack, Wing Attack, Centre, Wing Defence, Goal Defence, and Goalkeeper. 

These traditional positions have specific areas on the court where they are allowed to move, and each position has its unique set of responsibilities. The team’s success in Netball depends on the coordination and skill of these players in their designated roles. While these traditional positions are the foundation of Netball, variations and adaptations may occur in different formats or levels of play.

THE MODERN GAME

The modern game of Netball has evolved, with changes and adaptations to make the sport more dynamic, engaging, and accessible. The modern variation of Netball is played with teams of five players rather than the traditional seven. It’s known for its fast-paced and high-scoring nature, with additional rules like power plays and two-point shots. In some regions, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, Netball has become a professional sport with elite leagues with players now competing in international competitions, including the Netball World Cup and regional events like the Quad Series and Constellation Cup. Technology has also helped enhance the game with video replays, and reviews are used to make crucial decisions, such as determining if a shot was taken within the time limit or if a player’s foot was out of bounds during a pass or shot. 

ADDITIONAL RULES OF NETBALL

 In addition to the fundamental rules, there are additional rules and regulations that apply to ensure fair play and the safety of all participants.  

These include:

• Players must adhere to specific footwork rules.
• Throw-Ins: When the ball goes out of bounds, a throw-in is awarded to the opposing team. 
• Contact Penalties: If a player violates the contact rules, the opposing team is awarded a free pass or penalty pass, depending on the severity of the contact.
• Obstruction Rules: Players are not allowed to obstruct the movement of the player with the ball. Defenders must stand aside and allow the attacker room to pass or shoot.
• Timeouts: Teams are usually allowed a limited number of timeouts during a game. 

These are just some of additional rules that help make Netball a structured and regulated

The history of Netball dates back to the late 19th century in England and is closely linked to the development of women’s sports and physical education. In the late 1890s, a game called “women’s basketball” emerged, but it had many different rules than modern Netball. Netball evolved from early versions of basketball, specifically designed to be a team sport for women and girls.