Some Netball basics that people don’t talk about… the secrets skills of Netball.

Remember that feeling of not knowing what you should do or how to improve? That is all of us, and it is the same for Netball. We all want to be amazing when we first pick up a ball, but the reality is that doesn’t happen. But listen up, because we have some ideas that might help you go from slow to whoa! How? We have some netball secrets to give out – hidden skills beyond basic drills that help players improve their game.

Get ready, because we have some quick tips to get you playing better, being sharper and having the skills down before others!

Netball Skills #1: Be a Footwork Wizard:

Most drills focus on passing and catching, but forget the magic underfoot! Here's the cheat code:

1. Footwork: Imagine your feet are magnets repelling each other. Take small, quick steps, staying light on the balls of your feet. This lets you pivot easily, dodging defenders.

2. Shuffle Shuffle Shuffle: Don't just run in straight lines! Practice shuffling sideways, like a crab with rhythm. This lets you stay close to the ball, confusing defenders and making those perfect passes.

3. Stealthy Stances: Learn different stances for attacking and defending. For attacking, imagine you're a lion ready to pounce. Wide base, knees slightly bent, eyes glued to the ball. For defense, be a sneaky cat – low stance, one foot forward, ready to spring.

Netball Skills #2: Think Beyond the Ball:

Netball isn't just about throwing and catching. It's a mental game too!

1. Court Vision: Don't tunnel vision on the ball. Scan the court like a hawk, spotting teammates free for a pass or sneaky defenders about to pounce. This lets you make lightning-fast decisions and keep the play flowing.

2. Talk the Talk: Communication is key! Call your teammates names when passing, and warn them about lurking defenders. A loud, confident voice makes you easily heard, but remember, you don’t need to scream and shout.

3. Befriend the Rules: Understanding basic footwork violations and offside calls can save you penalties and keep the game fun. You can also be one step ahead of the opposition too if you know how to use the rules to your advantage.

Netball Skills #3: Practice Like a Pro (and have fun):

Drills are good, but who wants to do the same old jump shot all day? Spice things up!

1. Obstacle Course Challenge: Set up cones, chairs, or even hula hoops on the court. Dribble around them, jump over them, pass through them. This builds agility and footwork in a fun way.

2. Wall Pass Wallop: Grab a friend and find a wall. Take turns throwing different passes against the wall, catching them on the rebound. Add challenges like making a game where you challenge each other with difficult bounces, heights and angles. Try switching hands as it makes it harder and improves your skills.

3. Mini-Matches with a Twist: Play short games with modified rules. Try playing with only chest passes, or no footwork in the goal circle. This forces you to think creatively and master different skills.

Remember, no one is born a star player. They practiced, learnt, had lots of fun (usually with friends) and lots of awkward falls, misses and mistakes. So, grab your netball, unleash your inner ninja, and get ready to paint the court with your skills!

Just one more thing – don't forget to smile. Netball is best played in a fun and inclusive group, so go out there and have ball!